Television viewers are in for a rare treat this evening as previously unseen footage of comedy giant Ken Dodd is broadcast for the first time. The newly discovered recordings, showing the performer at his peak, will be shared with the world and with his widow, Anne, in a poignant Channel 5 documentary.
Ken Dodd: The Lost Tapes
Scheduled for 9pm on Channel 5, "Ken Dodd: The Lost Tapes" promises an intimate look at the legendary comedian. The programme features recently unearthed recordings of Dodd in action, capturing his unique brand of humour. His wife, Anne Dodd, watches the material for the first time, offering personal reflections on their life together and the extensive tours around Britain that defined his career. A classic Dodd quip about the taxman writing on "brown paper" hints at the timeless comedy awaiting audiences.
Tonight's Standout TV Schedule
Beyond the Dodd documentary, tonight's schedule is packed with diverse offerings. On BBC One at 8pm, DIY SOS: The Big Build presents a Gladiators Special. The team, joined by stars from the rebooted show, takes on an emotional project to build a permanent base for the Cherry Tree Community Centre in East Yorkshire, which supports vulnerable teenagers.
Also at 8pm on Channel 5, Geoff Capes: Britain's Greatest Strongman charts the rise of the late sporting icon. The film follows his journey from a "raw ruffian" to a two-time World's Strongest Man, with tributes from fellow Olympians like Fatima Whitbread and Daley Thompson.
For a lighter tone, Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan take on the Bard in Rob & Romesh vs Shakespeare at 9pm on Sky Max. Their challenge is to perform Mercutio's death scene at Shakespeare's Globe, with training from the likes of Michelle Terry and Martin Freeman.
Further Evening Viewing
Later, BBC Two's Live at the Apollo (10pm) features award-winning comedian Laura Smyth and England para footballer turned stand-up Josh Pugh, hosted by Mo Gilligan. This is followed at 10.45pm by The Cockfields Christmas Special, starring Joe Wilkinson and Susannah Fielding in a dysfunctional family sitcom set on the Isle of Wight.
Film fans can seek out the darkly hilarious Friendship on Sky Cinema, starring Tim Robinson and Paul Rudd, while Sky Sports covers Premier League football, including Chelsea versus Bournemouth from 6.30pm.
Tonight's lineup offers a compelling mix of nostalgic comedy, heart-warming community efforts, sporting nostalgia, and contemporary laughs, ensuring there is something for every viewer.
