Kick off your Sunday with a bang – the TV and streaming lineup that's got everyone talking, from dazzling dances to dark dramas that might just change your perspective on entertainment!
Updated / Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 06:00 – If you're looking to unwind after the holiday rush, today's selection of TV and streaming options offers a perfect mix of glamour, intrigue, and a touch of controversy. But here's where it gets really interesting: some of these shows dive into the messy lives of celebrities and characters alike, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. Let's break it down, one highlight at a time, with a bit more context to make it easy for newcomers to jump in.
Dancing with the Stars - RTÉ One at 6:30pm, available on RTÉ Player – Picture this: a ballroom packed with energy, where everyday folks team up with professional dancers to strut their stuff for a panel of judges. This season, Brian Redmond, Karen Byrne, Oti Mabuse, and Arthur Gourounlian are back to deliver those crucial scores. Joining the fun are three fresh faces in the dancing world: Arianna Favaro, Leonardo Lini, and James Cutler. Hosting duties fall to the dynamic duo of Jennifer Zamparelli and Laura Fox, promising plenty of laughs and surprises. For beginners, think of it as a wholesome competition that showcases talent and transformation – it's not just about the steps, but the stories behind the contestants that keep viewers hooked.
I'm Chevy Chase and You're Not - Sky Documentaries at 9pm, on Now TV – Delve into the life of one of comedy's true legends, Chevy Chase, whose wild ride includes iconic moments in films like the National Lampoon series. Yet, his career hasn't been without its bumps, marked by high-profile exits from shows like Saturday Night Live and Community. Director Marina Zenovich peels back the layers in this documentary, exploring the man beneath the humor – his motivations, his quirks, and the controversies that have defined him. And this is the part most people miss: how a comedian's off-screen antics can spark debates about fame and mental health. Is it fair to judge artists by their personal lives, or should we separate the art from the artist? It's a question that might leave you pondering long after the credits roll.
The Affair - Available on RTÉ Player – Imagine a chance encounter that spirals into a forbidden romance: a novelist grappling with writer's block and a waitress navigating her own challenges strike up an illicit affair, turning their worlds upside down. This gripping drama, featuring Dominic West, Ruth Wilson, Maura Tierney, and Joshua Jackson, explores themes of infidelity, desire, and the ripple effects on families – perfect for those who enjoy character-driven stories that feel painfully real. For newcomers, it's like a modern twist on classic love triangles, but with deeper psychological insights that make you question your own relationships.
The Night Manager Season 2 - BBC at 9:05pm – Eight years have passed since we last saw Jonathan Pine, now undercover as MI6 operative Alex Goodwin, leading a quiet life. But danger lurks when he spots a familiar mercenary from his past, drawing him into a web involving Colombian businessman Teddy Dos Santos. This espionage thriller picks up right after the series premiere on December 31st, promising high-stakes action and moral dilemmas. If you're new to spy dramas, think of it as a sophisticated game of cat and mouse, where loyalties shift and betrayals abound – a great entry point with plenty of real-world parallels to international intrigue.
Pride and Prejudice - Prime Video – Escape to the elegance of 1940s England with this timeless adaptation of Jane Austen's beloved novel. It boasts standout performances, including what many consider the definitive portrayal of Mrs. Bennet and Lady Catherine de Bourgh, alongside Laurence Olivier as the brooding Mr. Darcy. Ideal for that post-holiday Sunday slump, it's pure comfort viewing that reminds us of love, class, and wit. For those just dipping into classics, this version adds a layer of historical flair, showing how social norms of the past still echo today – a subtle reminder that some stories never go out of style.
Rear Window - BBC 4 at 8pm – Hitchcock's classic thriller stars Grace Kelly and James Stewart as Jeff and Lisa, a couple who become impromptu sleuths after suspecting a neighbor of murder from their apartment window. This suspenseful tale, nominated for four Oscars, masterfully builds tension through voyeurism and doubt. Beginners might appreciate how it explores themes like curiosity and isolation, making it a staple for film buffs and thriller lovers alike – and yes, it's sparked endless discussions about privacy in the digital age.
There you have it – a lineup that's equal parts entertaining and thought-provoking. But here's where it gets controversial: in today's world of streaming, are we consuming these stories for escape, or are they subtly shaping our views on relationships, fame, and justice? Do you think documentaries like the one on Chevy Chase should delve into personal controversies, or is that an invasion of privacy? And what about shows like The Affair – does exploring infidelity in fiction normalize it, or help us process real-life complexities? I'd love to hear your take in the comments: agree, disagree, or share your own Sunday viewing picks. Let's discuss!
