Pick of the Day: The White Lotus
9pm, Sky Atlantic
Mike White’s critically acclaimed series, The White Lotus, continues to deliver a sharp and entertaining satire on the lives of the privileged elite. In this third series, the storyline follows the increasingly tangled lives of holidaymakers at a lavish resort in Thailand. As the tension mounts, dark secrets begin to surface, particularly concerning financier Tim Ratliff, portrayed by Jason Isaacs. Tim is grappling with the looming threat of prison back in the United States, and his frantic phone calls to a former business partner reveal the mounting pressure he faces. Meanwhile, the trio of girlfriends—Laurie, Jaclyn, and Kate, played by Carrie Coon, Michelle Monaghan, and Lesley Bibb—are engrossed in a fierce competition that sees them undercutting each other at every turn. As the idyllic surroundings of the retreat mask the growing turmoil, real-world events are poised to intrude, bringing a shocking revelation and an unexpected face from the past.
Virdee
9pm, BBC One
The gripping crime drama Virdee returns with an intense episode set in Bradford. It opens with a flashback to the year 2001, providing insight into Riaz’s (Vikash Bhai) transformation into a man entangled in criminality. Once a studious and timid youth, Riaz’s past is unveiled as he recalls a moment when he wished he could emulate his older brother Harry’s strength during a confrontation with local racists. Fast forward to the present, and the brothers find themselves navigating a perilous situation as a gang war threatens to erupt. Tensions rise as attackers target Riaz’s nightclub, forcing the brothers to unite against a common enemy. The episode features a talented ensemble cast, including Staz Nair, Aysha Kala, Nina Singh, Danyal Ismail, and Elizabeth Berrington, who bring the drama to life with their compelling performances.
Israel and the Palestinians: The Road to 7th October
9pm, BBC Two
A timely and thought-provoking documentary series, Israel and the Palestinians: The Road to 7th October, is directed by the award-winning filmmaker Norma Percy. Known for her insightful narratives, Percy’s previous works include Putin vs The West and the notable Israel and the Arabs: Elusive Peace. This new series delves into the complex decisions that have shaped the Israeli-Palestinian conflict over the past two decades, featuring interviews with influential figures such as former US secretaries of state Hillary Clinton, John Kerry, and Condoleezza Rice, as well as Rahm Emanuel, ex-chief of staff to President Obama, and former UK and Israeli prime ministers, Tony Blair and Ehud Olmert. The series aims to unravel the intricate political landscape and the events leading up to the current situation, shedding light on a deeply entrenched conflict.
Go Back to Where You Came From
9pm, Channel 4
The concluding episode of Go Back to Where You Came From presents a poignant journey through the French Alps, culminating in Calais. As participants grapple with their preconceptions about refugees, one suggests that progress would be made if they stopped arguing. Throughout this eye-opening experience, they confront the harsh realities faced by those seeking asylum, often reflecting on their own fortunate circumstances. In the final leg of their journey, they bravely cross the Channel in a rubber dinghy, prompting Dave to question why anyone would want to come to a Britain characterized by high costs and dreary weather. This series highlights the importance of perspective and empathy in understanding the refugee experience.
At Home with Katherine Ryan
9pm, U&W
In this delightful new series, comedian Katherine Ryan shines a light on her life as a mother while her teenage daughter Violet emerges as the standout star. Viewers are treated to candid moments that resonate with any parent, as Violet humorously remarks about her mother’s upcoming 10-month comedy tour. Katherine attempts to establish some ground rules for her children during her absence, including a no-phone policy after 9:30 pm—a challenge she might find difficult to enforce. The show also features a visit to her friend Aisling Bea, who recently welcomed a baby, and Katherine makes a guest appearance on Vogue Williams’ podcast, Never Live It Down, providing a glimpse into her multifaceted life as a performer and parent.
