The Split Up: New Trailer Reveals BBC’s Latest Legal Drama

Image: BBC

By Jon Donnis

A new trailer has been released for The Split Up, a six-part legal drama from the makers of the hit series The Split.

The new series will debut on BBC iPlayer and BBC One from Sunday 20 September, with all six episodes available to stream on BBC iPlayer from launch. Episodes will also air on BBC One at 9pm on Sundays and Mondays.

Created by Ursula Rani Sarma, whose credits include Delicious, The Split Up is based on The Split, created by multiple award-winning writer Abi Morgan. The new drama is produced by SISTER Pictures in association with Morgan’s Little Chick.

Set in Manchester, the series introduces a new family and a new collection of relationships to the world of high-net-worth divorce law.

At the heart of the drama is Aria Kishan, played by Ritu Arya, a rising star in the legal world who is poised to take over Kishan Law, the powerful family firm founded by her father, Dhruv, played by Sanjeev Bhaskar.

Kishan Law is the firm of choice for Manchester’s elite, bringing Aria and her family into contact with a series of high-profile clients.

However, Aria's professional ambitions are matched by complications in her personal life. She is preparing to marry her long-term partner Neal, played by Danny Ashok, but their relationship is already under pressure due to the close connection between their personal and professional lives.

Things become even more complicated when Luke, played by respected Greek Cypriot actor Dimitri Leonidas, unexpectedly joins Kishan Law. Luke is a former secret flame of Aria, potentially putting further strain on her relationship as she prepares for marriage.

The family is also dealing with the recent death of Aria's mother. While Aria stands on the brink of inheriting the family firm, Dhruv begins to question whether his daughter is ready to take on the responsibility of running Kishan Law alone.

Aria's siblings Maya, played by Aysha Kala, and Kav, played by Arian Nik, have their own complicated relationships and loyalties, adding further tension within the family.

The new trailer offers a glimpse of the pressures facing Aria as she attempts to balance her career, family responsibilities and relationships, while the cases handled by Kishan Law bring the private lives of its wealthy clients into the spotlight.

Combining the family drama of The Split with a new setting, new characters and new storylines, The Split Up promises to explore the divisions that can emerge between families and the people they love.

The Split Up premieres on BBC iPlayer and BBC One on Sunday 20 September.

Shaun the Sheep Gets a Baa-Ewe Tapestry Ahead of New Cinema Adventure

Image: Sky TV

By Jon Donnis

Shaun the Sheep has been given a suitably British artistic tribute ahead of his latest big-screen adventure, with a spectacular seven-metre tapestry inspired by the iconic Bayeux Tapestry now on display at London's Natural History Museum.

The Baa-Ewe Tapestry was unveiled by Olympic gold medallist Tom Daley on 9 September, marking the countdown to the cinema release of Sky Original feature film Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom on 18 September.

Created as a playful textile tribute to Shaun and his friends, the handcrafted tapestry recreates moments from the new film through traditional embroidery techniques. Stretching seven metres in length, the artwork features Shaun, Bitzer and the residents of Mossy Bottom Farm as they become caught up in the chaos, comedy and Halloween antics of their latest adventure.

The concept takes inspiration from the world-famous Bayeux Tapestry, which stretches for around 70 metres and depicts the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of 1066. While that medieval masterpiece tells the story of one of the defining moments in British history, the Baa-Ewe Tapestry offers a considerably more light-hearted tale.

The timing of the unveiling is particularly fitting, as the original Bayeux Tapestry is set to go on display at the British Museum from 10 September 2026 until 11 July 2027 as part of a historic loan from France.

Daley, who is also the founder of knitting and crochet lifestyle brand Made With Love, was invited to add his own contribution to the new artwork. He knitted a miniature sweater vest for Shaun bearing the words "Shaun the Sheep", which appears in the final section of the tapestry.

The Olympic champion also arrived at the unveiling wearing a matching jumper of his own, emblazoned with the words "Tom the Human".

"I'm so thrilled to be involved in this amazing celebration of creativity, and I can't wait for everyone to see the beautiful tapestry the team have put together," Daley said. "I've waited years for the opportunity to collaborate with Shaun the Sheep, so when he asked me to design him a bespoke piece of knitwear, I simply had to say yes!"

The Baa-Ewe Tapestry is now available for the public to see at the Natural History Museum, where it will remain on display in the Darwin Centre's West Wing until 1 November.

Visitors will be able to view the seven-metre artwork up close and follow Shaun's latest escapades panel by panel, offering a suitably crafty introduction to The Beast of Mossy Bottom before it arrives in cinemas.

Produced by Aardman in partnership with Sky and STUDIOCANAL, Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom opens in cinemas on 18 September.

Monty Don to Step Down as Gardeners’ World Head Gardener

Monty and Ned (Image: BBC Studios)

By Jon Donnis

After more than two decades as the face of BBC Gardeners’ World, Monty Don is stepping down from his role as the programme’s longest-serving Head Gardener.

Monty joined the popular gardening programme in 2003 and has since become one of the most recognisable figures in British gardening television, inspiring millions of viewers with his warmth, knowledge and enthusiasm.

Since 2011, audiences have also been welcomed into Monty’s own garden at Longmeadow in Herefordshire, where he has shared the pleasures and challenges of gardening throughout the seasons. His much-loved dogs have frequently accompanied him, becoming a familiar part of the programme along the way.

Although Monty is leaving his role at the end of the current series, viewers will not have to say goodbye just yet. He will continue broadcasting from Longmeadow until later this year.

Speaking about his decision Monty said: "I have decided that the current series of Gardeners’ World is to be my last. I began hosting the programme 23 years ago, first at Berryfields and for the past 16 years here in my own garden, Longmeadow.

"Throughout that time - and around seven hundred programmes - I have had the privilege of sharing my own abiding passion for gardens and gardening with an equally passionate, and often equally knowledgeable audience.

"That connection with millions, not just in Britain but across the world, who share a love of gardens, plants and the natural world is something I have always treasured and which I increasingly believe to be at the heart of a life well lived.

"I have also always relished the craft of programme making and to do so, week in week out, as part of a superlative BBC team has been a deeply rewarding experience. But now is the right time for a change.

"I look forward to continuing to work with and for the BBC on other projects, as well as following new avenues. There are more books to write, more programmes to make.

"And of course, I will still be gardening, dog by side, here at Longmeadow."

SNL UK Adds Freddie Meredith to Series 2 Cast

Image: Sky TV

By Jon Donnis

Saturday Night Live UK is expanding its cast ahead of the return of the hit comedy series, with actor and comedian Freddie Meredith joining the ensemble for Series 2.

Meredith, known for his roles in Such Brave Girls and Big Boys, joins the cast following his Edinburgh Fringe debut with his comedy show Need a Light?, which was nominated for the Best Newcomer Award.

He will appear alongside returning SNL UK cast members Hammed Animashaun, Ayoade Bamgboye, Larry Dean, Celeste Dring, George Fouracres, Ania Magliano, Annabel Marlow, Al Nash, Jack Shep, Emma Sidi and Paddy Young.

Originally from London, and more specifically Shepherd's Bush, Meredith has a background in both acting and live comedy. After training at drama school, he began his professional career in theatre before increasingly moving towards comedy. He subsequently started performing stand-up alongside his acting work, eventually leading to the creation of short sketches online.

Meredith's comedy influences include Jamie Demetriou, Tim Key, Tina Fey, Nathan Fielder, Kristen Wiig, Steve Coogan, Steve Carrell and Julia Davis.

Speaking about joining SNL UK, Meredith described it as an opportunity he simply could not turn down.

"It's a no brainer, it's the most iconic comedy show and it looks like so much fun. It will undoubtedly inform everything I do for the rest of my career and I can't wait for the experience. It's SNL!!!"

SNL UK will return for its second series on 12 September on Sky and streaming service NOW, with the first six episodes scheduled to air this year. Further episodes are planned for early 2027.

The new series will open with Jeff Goldblum and CMAT on 12 September, followed by episodes on 19 September, 26 September, 10 October, 17 October and 24 October.

BBC Acquires New Irish Factual Drama - The Murder of Mr. Moonlight

Brendan Coyle as Bobby Ryan (Image: Peter Marley)

By Jon Donnis

The BBC is bringing one of Ireland’s most compelling criminal cases to television with The Murder of Mr. Moonlight, a new factual drama commissioned by RTÉ in association with Screen Ireland and Banijay Rights.

Adapted for television by Malcolm Campbell, whose previous credits include What Richard Did and 500 Miles, the series is produced by Conker Pictures, part of Banijay UK, and Samson Films, with additional funding from Screen Ireland.

The three-part story explores the disappearance and murder of Bobby Ryan, a case that would eventually lead to one of the longest murder trials in Irish history. Ryan disappeared in June 2011, with his body not discovered until April 2013 on a farm in County Tipperary.

An extensive investigation followed, eventually leading to the conviction of Patrick Quirke for Ryan’s murder in 2019. Quirke was sentenced to life imprisonment.

Ryan was known affectionately as "Mr. Moonlight", the stage name he used during his work as a local DJ entertainer. He regularly performed in pubs, clubs and social venues, making him a familiar figure within the local community.

Brendan Coyle, known for Downton Abbey and Toxic Town, takes on the role of Bobby Ryan, with Sinéad Keenan of Unforgotten and Little Boy Blue playing Mary Lowry, Bobby’s girlfriend. Owen McDonnell, who has appeared in Killing Eve and Bad Sisters, stars as Patrick Quirke.

The cast also includes Hazel Doupe as Bobby’s daughter Michelle Ryan and Carolyn Bracken as Pat’s wife, Imelda Quirke. Ian Lloyd Anderson, Danny Power, Helena Browne, Muiris Crowley, Aidan O’Hare, Emmet Byrne and Pom Boyd also feature.

Set against the backdrop of a close-knit rural community, The Murder of Mr. Moonlight will examine the relationships, secrets and tensions surrounding the case. The drama will explore the devastating consequences of Ryan’s disappearance and murder, while looking at the search for justice and the impact the events had on those closest to them.

Rather than focusing solely on the criminal investigation, the series aims to explore the human stories behind the headlines and the effect of a tragedy that continued to resonate through the community for years.

The Murder of Mr. Moonlight is based on Catherine Fegan’s book of the same name, drawing on extensive research and interviews. The adaptation will revisit a case that captivated Ireland for more than a decade while examining the people and relationships at its heart.

The series will be available to watch on BBC iPlayer and BBC One, with further details about its release to be announced in due course.

Ludwig announces star-studded Christmas special with Sir David Suchet

David Mitchell and Sir David Suchet (Image: BBC / Big Talk Studios / Amanda Searle)

By Jon Donnis

David Mitchell and Anna Maxwell Martin are set to return as the Taylor family for a festive Ludwig special, with an impressive line-up of guest stars joining the BBC detective comedy.

The announcement comes as the International Emmy Award-winning series continues to air its second series on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, while a third series is already in production. The Christmas special will add another mystery to John's increasingly complicated detective adventures.

Among the guest stars is Sir David Suchet, best known for his celebrated portrayal of Hercule Poirot. This time, however, the actor will find himself on the other side of the investigation, taking on the role of a murder suspect.

Jason Flemyng, Joe Wilkinson, Cathy Tyson, Alexandra Roach and Kiell Smith-Bynoe are also part of the guest cast, alongside Rebekah Staton, Claire Price, Ariella Glaser and George Rainsford.

David Mitchell will once again play John 'Ludwig' Taylor, with Anna Maxwell Martin returning as Lucy Betts-Taylor. Dylan Hughes will reprise his role as Henry Betts-Taylor, while Dipo Ola returns as DCI Russell Carter.

The festive mystery takes the Taylors to a remote Christmas-themed hotel in Yorkshire, where John, Lucy and Henry are hoping for a much-needed escape. Their plans take an unexpected turn when a sudden blackout transforms the festive break into a locked-room murder mystery.

With a blizzard cutting the hotel off from the outside world, the guests are left trapped together with a killer among them. John is reluctantly drawn into another unusual puzzle, leaving the Taylors with the difficult task of solving the murder before Christmas.

The 60-minute Christmas special is created and written by Mark Brotherhood and produced by Big Talk Studios, part of ITV Studios, in collaboration with That Mitchell and Webb Company, with BritBox and ZDF as co-production partners.

On working with Sir David Suchet, David Mitchell said: “I have long been a huge admirer of Sir David Suchet’s work and have watched every episode of Poirot several times, so it was a dream come true for me when he agreed to appear in the Ludwig Christmas Special. He was an absolute joy to work and spend time with - funny, interesting and generous - and his performance in the programme is wonderful.”

Sir David Suchet says: “It was an absolute pleasure to work alongside David Mitchell and the wonderful ensemble cast. It made quite the refreshing change to be playing a suspect rather than the detective, and to sit comfortably in my armchair while David delivered the denouement. I had a thoroughly enjoyable time.”

Episodes 1-3 of Ludwig Series 2 are currently available on BBC iPlayer, episodes 4-6 will be available from Thursday 10 September. Episodes are going out weekly on BBC One, Thursdays, 9pm. The Ludwig Christmas episode forms part of the Ludwig series 2 commission.

Saturday Night Live UK announces Jeff Goldblum and CMAT for series two launch

Image: Sky TV

By Jon Donnis

Saturday Night Live UK is returning for its second series, with Jeff Goldblum set to lead the launch episode alongside Irish singer-songwriter CMAT.

The Academy Award-nominated actor and global star, known for Jurassic Park and Wicked, will take on hosting duties when the new series begins on 12 September. CMAT will join him as the episode's musical guest, bringing her own performance to the live opening show.

The series will once again air live each week, with a different celebrity host and musical guest taking centre stage in every episode. Alongside the live music, viewers can expect topical sketches and a distinctly British take on the iconic Weekend Update segment.

The second series will continue to bring the Saturday Night Live format to a UK audience, combining comedy, live performances and topical material across each weekly episode.

With Goldblum taking the hosting role and CMAT providing the music, Saturday Night Live UK will kick off its second series on 12 September.

Saturday Night Live UK launches on 12 September on Sky and streaming service NOW.