the best new shows to watch, starting tonight – The Irish Times

The entertainment landscape is brimming with options this week, from the return of a beloved Irish music showcase to the culmination of talent searches and gripping dramas. Viewers can expect a diverse range of programming, including awards shows, thrilling mysteries, and even a look into the world of professional cleaning. This week’s offerings span genres and platforms, promising something for everyone.

Music and Performance

Ireland’s long-running live music program, “Other Voices,” returns for its 24th series on Thursday, broadcasting from venues in both Dingle, County Kerry, and West Wales. Hosted by Annie Mac, Huw Stephens, and MayKay, the six-part series will feature performances from established and emerging artists. The first episode showcases Amble, Florence Road, Dove Ellis, and Nigerian singer-songwriter MOIO, alongside a special appearance and performance by former president Michael D Higgins, whose album Against All Certainty achieved unexpected success.

Did You Know? “Other Voices” has been showcasing musical talent for 24 series, establishing itself as a key platform for both Irish and international artists.

Reality Competition and Awards

Saturday brings the continuation of “Britain’s Got Talent” with judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, and the newly permanent addition of KSI, who previously served as a guest judge. Ant and Dec return as hosts, having reportedly secured assurances from Cowell regarding their involvement in the show. Later that evening, RTÉ One will broadcast the 23rd Irish Film and Television Academy Awards, hosted by Kevin McGahern, with Ciarán Hinds set to receive a lifetime achievement award. Nominees for top honors include Jessie Buckley, Cillian Murphy, and Colin Farrell.

Drama and True Crime

Sunday offers a mix of entertainment, starting with a milestone 100th episode of “Dancing with the Stars,” featuring tributes to memorable routines from past seasons. Prime Video will launch “Vanished” on Friday, a four-part thriller starring Kaley Cuoco and Sam Claflin, centered around a mysterious disappearance during a vacation in France. RTÉ One will air “Swindlers” on Wednesday, focusing on the case of Dublin solicitor Thomas Byrne, who defrauded banks of €52 million.

Powerful Stories and Monster Mayhem

Channel 4’s “The Dunblane Tapes” on Thursday revisits the aftermath of the 1996 Dunblane massacre, showcasing previously unseen footage documenting the parents’ campaign for stricter gun control laws. Apple TV+ will release the second season of “Monarch: Legacy of Monsters” on Friday, starring Kurt Russell and his son Wyatt Russell, continuing the story within the “monsterverse” alongside Kong and Godzilla, and introducing a new threat: Titan X.

Expert Insight: The airing of “The Dunblane Tapes” underscores the enduring impact of tragic events and the power of advocacy in shaping public policy. The documentary’s release 30 years after the event highlights the continued relevance of the issues surrounding gun control and the resilience of those affected by violence.

Cleaning and Home Life

“Cleaning Up Ireland” on Sunday profiles the work of hygiene professionals, showcasing companies like Sage Cleaning, run by Shan and Paige Hill, and Ryans Cleaning, alongside Dublin City Council’s street cleaning team. The series offers a glimpse into the often-unseen labour involved in maintaining public spaces and tackling challenging cleaning tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the focus of “Other Voices” this season?

This season of “Other Voices” will showcase a mix of established and emerging musical talent, both from Ireland and abroad, performing intimate sets at venues in Dingle, Co Kerry and West Wales.

Who are the judges on the latest series of “Britain’s Got Talent”?

The judges on “Britain’s Got Talent” are Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, and KSI.

What is “Swindlers” about?

“Swindlers” is a series profiling Ireland’s most notorious fraudsters, with the second episode focusing on Thomas Byrne, a Dublin solicitor who defrauded banks of €52 million.

With such a diverse range of programming available, what genre are you most looking forward to exploring this week?