ITV Announces Third Series of The Dry for ITVX

Image: ITV Press

By Jon Donnis

ITV has officially commissioned a third series of the BAFTA-nominated comedy-drama The Dry. The announcement follows the success of the second series, which has been streamed two million times since its 2024 launch on ITVX. Combined, the first two series have amassed over 8.2 million streams, cementing the show's popularity.

Produced by Element Pictures in partnership with ITVX and RTÉ, the critically acclaimed series is created with support from Fís Eireann/Screen Ireland and ITV Studios. The third series will once again feature award-winning playwright and screenwriter Nancy Harris (Dates) and director Paddy Breathnach (Viva, Rosie) at the helm.

Roisin Gallagher will reprise her role as Shiv Sheridan, a recovering alcoholic navigating life, love and family in Dublin. The regular cast is also set to return, with further casting details to be announced.

What to Expect in Series Three

The third series promises to delve deeper into the lives of the Sheridans, who are faced with their biggest challenge

Trailer Released for Sky Original Drama Mussolini: Son of the Century

Image and Video by Sky TV Press

By Jon Donnis

The highly anticipated trailer for Mussolini: Son of the Century, an eight-part Sky Original drama, has been unveiled. Directed by BAFTA-winning filmmaker Joe Wright (Darkest Hour, Atonement, Cyrano), the series will debut on Sky Atlantic and NOW on 4 February 2025.

Based on Antonio Scurati's bestselling Premio Strega-winning novel, the series made its world premiere at the 81st Venice International Film Festival. It offers a gripping exploration of Italy's descent into dictatorship through the life and rise of Benito Mussolini, portrayed by the acclaimed Luca Marinelli (Martin Eden, The Old Guard).

The drama spans the years from 1919, when Mussolini founded the Fasci Italiani, to 1925, marked by his infamous speech following the assassination of socialist leader Giacomo Matteotti. Alongside his political manoeuvres, the series delves into Mussolini's personal relationships, including those with his wife, Rachele, and his lover, Margherita Sarfatti, providing a nuanced look at the man behind the historical figure.

Written by Stefano Bises (Gomorrah, ZeroZeroZero) and Davide Serino (1992, 1993), the series strives for historical accuracy, with every event, character, and dialogue grounded in documented evidence. The evocative soundtrack is composed by Tom Rowlands of The Chemical Brothers, adding a modern edge to this historical tale.

With a stellar creative team, including cinematographer Seamus McGarvey and costume designer Massimo Cantini Parrini, Mussolini: Son of the Century promises to be a powerful blend of drama, history, and artistry.

Mark your calendars for 4 February 2025, when this compelling series premieres exclusively on Sky Atlantic and NOW in the UK.

The Last of Us Returns This April – Season 2 Promises More Danger, Drama, and Heartbreak

Image: Sky Press

By Jon Donnis

The wait is nearly over for fans of The Last of Us, as the highly anticipated second season of the Emmy®-winning drama series is set to premiere this April on Sky and NOW. The new season promises seven intense episodes, continuing the gripping story that captured audiences worldwide.

Set five years after the harrowing events of the first season, Joel and Ellie find themselves facing new challenges. Their bond is tested as they confront a world that has grown even more perilous and unpredictable. As alliances shift and enemies emerge, the stakes have never been higher.

Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey return as the beloved duo Joel and Ellie, with Gabriel Luna reprising his role as Tommy and Rutina Wesley returning as Maria. The series also introduces an exciting roster of new characters played by Kaitlyn Dever, Isabela Merced, Young Mazino, Ariela Barer, Tati Gabrielle, Spencer Lord, Danny Ramirez, and Jeffrey Wright. Catherine O'Hara is set to make a guest appearance, adding another layer of intrigue to the ensemble.

Adapted from Naughty Dog's critically acclaimed video game franchise, The Last of Us continues to be helmed by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann. The pair, who received widespread praise for the first season, once again bring their narrative expertise to this thrilling continuation. With its stellar cast and a production team that includes Sony Pictures Television, PlayStation Productions, and Naughty Dog, the series is poised to deliver yet another unforgettable chapter.

Mark your calendars and prepare for an emotional and action-packed journey as The Last of Us returns to Sky and NOW this spring. Fans of the franchise and newcomers alike are in for a treat. April can't come soon enough.

BBC Acquires Groundbreaking Nature Series The Americas Narrated by Tom Hanks

Image: NBC Press

By Jon Donnis

The BBC has secured the rights to air The Americas, an extraordinary ten-part nature series, on BBC One and iPlayer, bringing the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of the Americas to screens across the UK. This epic series, narrated by Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks and featuring a powerful score by Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer, promises to captivate audiences with its stunning visuals and remarkable storytelling.

Produced by the renowned BBC Studios Natural History Unit in collaboration with Universal Television Alternative Studio, The Americas explores the vast and varied habitats of the Americas, revealing the hidden wonders and fragile ecosystems of the supercontinent. Filmed over five years and encompassing 180 expeditions, the series offers an unprecedented look at the diverse wildlife and environments that stretch from the Arctic tundra to the windswept plains of Patagonia, showcasing some of nature's most incredible and untold stories.

The series delves deep into iconic locations across the Americas, with each episode focusing on a unique region—from the icy landscapes of The Frozen North to the dense, vibrant heart of The Amazon, and from the rugged beauty of The Andes to the serene, tropical waters of The Caribbean. Viewers will also be transported to The Wild West, the Gulf Coast, and Patagonia, experiencing a variety of terrains and habitats that make up Earth's most diverse landmass.

Through the use of cutting-edge technology, The Americas uncovers never-before-seen animal behaviour, world-first discoveries, and extraordinary moments in nature. Highlights include dramatic deep-sea hunts, intimate courtship rituals, and the astonishing resilience of creatures, such as a frog that appears to defy death every day. With the series' pioneering approach to filming, it reveals the complex connections between species and their environments, fostering a deeper appreciation for the fragile ecosystems that are now more at risk than ever before.

Jo Lapping, Head of BBC Factual Acquisition, shared her excitement about the acquisition, saying: "The BBC is delighted to bring NBC's remarkable nature epic The Americas to BBC One and iPlayer. From Northern Canada to Patagonia, the spectacular beauty and diversity of the American continents has been captured in this mesmerising series from a multi-award-winning dream team; Tom Hanks, Hans Zimmer, BBC Studios Natural History, and Universal Television Alternative Studio."

The series is executive produced by Mike Gunton, the Emmy and BAFTA Award-winning wildlife producer behind acclaimed documentaries such as Planet Earth II, Planet Earth III, and Dynasties. Gunton's expertise in crafting breathtaking natural history content ensures that The Americas is set to become one of the most compelling and visually arresting nature series of the year.

With its sweeping landscapes, stunning wildlife, and emotional storytelling, The Americas is poised to inspire audiences and deepen our understanding of the planet's extraordinary ecosystems. The series will premiere on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on an upcoming date, with the full series available to stream on iPlayer following the first episode's airing.

For nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, The Americas promises to be a must-watch event that brings the wonders of the Americas into your living room, showcasing the beauty and fragility of the world's most diverse continent.

Anna Haugh’s Big Irish Food Tour: A Culinary Journey Across Ireland with Celebrity Guests

Image: BBC Press

By Jon Donnis

Celebrity chef Anna Haugh is set to take viewers on an unforgettable gastronomic adventure with her brand-new BBC series, Anna Haugh's Big Irish Food Tour. Starting on Monday 6th January, this 15-part series will see Anna travel across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, rediscovering the island's rich food culture and meeting the people behind the incredible local produce.

Hailing from Dublin, Anna's love for Irish food has taken her from her homeland to the kitchens of London, where she has built an impressive culinary career. Now, in this exciting series, she returns home to explore the unique ingredients and traditional flavours that make Irish cuisine so special. Throughout the show, Anna will be joined by a star-studded lineup of celebrity guests, each of whom will share their personal food memories and lend a hand in preparing a special dish alongside Anna.

The first episode kicks off in Cork, known as the 'foodie capital of Ireland', where comedian Katherine Ryan joins Anna to revisit her own memories of Irish food. However, Katherine's recollections are somewhat less than favourable, thanks to her grandmother's "over-boiled and under-seasoned" meals. The pair will explore the city's vibrant food scene and discover just how much more there is to Irish cuisine than Katherine initially thought.

In the second episode, snooker legend Dennis Taylor returns to his roots in County Tyrone, where he first picked up a cue. After a spot of fishing, Dennis and Anna dive into the culinary heritage of the area with a unique delicacy – the Lough Neagh eel. As the series progresses, viewers will be taken on an immersive journey, with Anna visiting iconic food hubs and hidden gems across Ireland, from bustling markets in Dublin to the rolling hills of County Antrim.

In each episode, Anna and her guests explore the local food culture and uncover the stories behind iconic dishes, offering insight into Ireland's diverse food landscape. For example, in Dublin, Anna meets actress Eilish O'Carroll from Mrs. Brown's Boys in an area where traditional markets meet modern street food. In County Antrim, she teams up with renowned garden designer Diarmuid Gavin during potato planting season, later creating a goat hotpot with locally grown spuds.

The series also takes a more personal turn as Anna connects with her heritage. In County Louth, Anna wraps up her tour with singer and actor Shayne Ward, who is eager to explore his Irish Traveller roots. Together, they meet one of Ireland's last surviving tinsmiths and visit a local farm, where Shayne gets hands-on with cabbage picking – a meaningful way for him to reconnect with his heritage.

Other celebrity guests featured throughout the series include presenter Vanessa Feltz, Father Ted actor Pauline McLynn, wildlife broadcaster Liz Bonnin, rugby legend Bundee Aki, and popstar Una Healy, who will join Anna on her culinary exploration across Ireland. Each guest brings their unique perspective to the journey, offering viewers a heartwarming and entertaining look at the food and culture that binds the nation together.

Anna's deep-rooted passion for Irish food shines through in every episode, and her vibrant personality ensures that Anna Haugh's Big Irish Food Tour is as engaging as it is delicious. Whether it's exploring local markets, cooking with celebrity guests, or learning about the island's rich food heritage, this series promises to deliver a fascinating and mouth-watering exploration of Irish cuisine.

The first episode of Anna Haugh's Big Irish Food Tour will air on BBC One Northern Ireland on Monday, 6th January, at 8pm, and the full series will be available to stream on BBC iPlayer. The complete series will also be broadcast on BBC Daytime in Spring 2025. Don't miss out on this exciting culinary adventure through the heart of Ireland!

Dani Harmer Returns to The Dumping Ground for a Special Cameo and Directorial Debut

Image: BBC Press

By Jon Donnis

This January, fans of The Dumping Ground are in for a treat as Dani Harmer makes a long-awaited return to the show, both on-screen and behind the camera. The beloved actress, best known for her portrayal of the iconic Tracy Beaker, will make a cameo appearance in the upcoming series, as well as direct her very own episode in a groundbreaking new role.

Set to launch on CBBC and BBC iPlayer on Friday, 17th January, Season 13 of The Dumping Ground promises to deliver all the drama and fun viewers have come to expect. However, this series comes with an extra dose of nostalgia, as Harmer returns to her roots, stepping back into the shoes of the unforgettable Tracy Beaker. For over 20 years, Dani has brought the character to life, and this special appearance marks another chapter in the character's ongoing journey in the care system.

Dani's connection to Tracy Beaker is undeniable, and her passion for the role shines through as she reflects on her return. "It is so good to be back and making a cameo as Tracy – she's been a part of my life for over 20 years now – but I'd quite happily play her forever!" she shares. "This series of The Dumping Ground will not disappoint. We've got some fantastic storylines and some incredibly talented actors joining the cast. The team do such an amazing job nurturing them and they have really supported me behind the camera too. It's such a special production to be working on."

In addition to her acting appearance, Dani is taking on a new challenge as a director. Having honed her skills in front of the camera for years, she embraced the opportunity to direct an episode of The Dumping Ground. "It was very different being sat in the director's chair, but I enjoyed every single second of it… it felt like that was where I was meant to be!" she admits. This marks a significant milestone in her career as she steps into a new creative role, showcasing her versatility and commitment to the show.

The Dumping Ground continues to follow the lives of a diverse group of young people in a children's home, offering an honest and often poignant look at the challenges they face. The series builds on the legacy of The Story of Tracy Beaker, Tracy Beaker Returns, My Mum Tracy Beaker, and The Beaker Girls. Known for its blend of emotional storylines and anarchic moments, the show has captured the hearts of viewers, offering a rich exploration of life in care.

The new season of The Dumping Ground promises to deliver on all fronts, with both lighthearted moments and impactful drama, while Dani's involvement in front of and behind the camera adds an exciting layer of depth. With her return to the role of Tracy Beaker and her directorial debut, this season is shaping up to be one of the most memorable yet.

Fans can look forward to seeing Dani's return as Tracy, as well as the exciting new directions the series will take, when The Dumping Ground premieres on CBBC and BBC iPlayer on January 17.

Renovation Rescue Returns for a Thrilling Second Series with Vogue Williams and Luke Mabbott

Image: Ch4 Press

By Jon Donnis

Following a successful debut in 2024, Channel 4's hit lifestyle show Renovation Rescue is back for a second series, and it's bringing a dynamic new duo to the forefront. This time, Vogue Williams, with her expertise in Construction Design and Management, and former Love Island star Luke Mabbott, a trained heating and plumbing engineer, will take the reins, offering their knowledge and hands-on approach to home renovations.

Fans can expect a fresh burst of energy as Vogue and Luke embark on a mission to help homeowners tackle their renovation dreams. This series will feature ambitious DIY projects, with the hosts guiding viewers through money-saving techniques, offering design inspiration, and sharing simple yet effective DIY tips that anyone can try at home. Whether it's fixing up a tired room or embarking on a larger renovation project, the series is set to prove that transforming a home can be satisfying, cost-effective, and easier than it seems.

Vogue, who is already well-versed in high-profile projects, is particularly excited about the new role, saying, "I've done a lot of exciting projects in my career, but I am so delighted to be given the opportunity to roll up my sleeves and get stuck into the second series of this truly brilliant show. Home renovation is a huge passion of mine, and I am excited to put my degrees in Construction and Quantity Surveying to the test! I'm very happy to be joining forces with Luke – we get on like a house on fire and I think I'm gonna learn a lot of DIY skills from him."

Luke, who is still riding high from his Love Island fame, is equally thrilled about his new role. "The fact that Channel 4 are putting their trust in me to be part of this series is just mind-blowing to me, but I am so excited," he said. "I can't wait to work with Vogue and help change the lives of people who need just a little bit of encouragement and some simple tips and tricks to make their dream project a reality."

The return of Renovation Rescue promises to bring both expert advice and a dose of fun. Clemency Green, Commissioning Editor for Channel 4, expressed her excitement: "We're thrilled that Renovation Rescue is returning to Channel 4. Vogue Williams is an incredible addition to the show, and I'm sure viewers will be blown away by her talents. Alongside Luke, they'll bring a unique and authentic energy to the show that will resonate with audiences."

Sarah Lazenby, Executive Vice President for Hello Sunshine Unscripted UK, shared her own excitement: "We are delighted to build on the success of our global hit Renovation Rescue with this recommission and can't wait to showcase Vogue and Luke's expert talents and infectious on-screen chemistry. They are a DIY dream team who exude warmth and humour, and I can't wait to see how they use their combined skill and passion to help others rebuild their dream homes."

The second series of Renovation Rescue is now casting for participants who want to tackle their own home renovation projects with expert help from Vogue and Luke. If you've ever dreamed of transforming your space, this could be your chance! Apply now by emailing build@producing-sunshine.com.

Get ready for another round of inspiring transformations, practical tips, and plenty of laughs – Renovation Rescue is back, and it's bigger and better than ever.