Television schedules are shifting as networks and streaming platforms roll out major autumn programming lineups, featuring high-profile literary adaptations, returning reality formats, and star-studded drama series according to The Independent.
Saturday Night Live UK and Comedy Returns
Sky One brings back Saturday Night Live UK for its second season on 12 September, according to writer Lauren Morris. The live sketch show features a cast of comedy up-and-comers welcoming celebrity hosts, starting with Jurassic Park star Jeff Goldblum, for 75 minutes of political satire.
Strictly Come Dancing and Big Reality TV Shifts
BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing returns on 19 September with significant changes behind the scenes, as reported by Lauren Morris. Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and professional dancer Johannes Radebe join the show as new hosts. The celebrity line-up features diverse names including Gavin and Stacey actress Melanie Walters alongside dog trainer Graeme Hall and TikTok star John Nellis.
Reality programming also expands on Disney+ with The Real Rooneys on 24 September, focusing on Wayne and Coleen Rooney alongside their four children, according to Katie Rosseinsky.
High-Profile Literary Adaptations on Netflix and Apple TV
Netflix launches several major book adaptations this season, including John Steinbeck’s East of Eden on 1 October. Written by Zoe Kazan, the seven-episode adaptation stars Florence Pugh as Cathy Ames, alongside Mike Faist and Christopher Abbott, according to culture writer LC.
Apple TV+ adds star-driven projects with Brothers on 23 September, reuniting Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson as fictionalized versions of themselves living on a ranch, noted Louis Chilton.
Bake Off Changes and Drama Series Highlights
Channel 4’s The Great British Bake Off enters its 17th series this September with a major panel change. Nigella Lawson joins Paul Hollywood as a judge, replacing Prue Leith, while presenters Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding return to the tent, according to Helen Coffey.
In crime and thriller drama, Apple TV+ presents Nocturne on 20 October. Based on the novels by Lars Kepler, the series stars Liev Schreiber and Stephen Graham, according to JS.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the new season of Strictly Come Dancing start?
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One on 19 September with a revamped hosting lineup.
Who is replacing Prue Leith on The Great British Bake Off?
Nigella Lawson joins Paul Hollywood as a judge for the 17th series on Channel 4.
When is Netflix releasing its adaptation of East of Eden?
The seven-episode adaptation written by Zoe Kazan and starring Florence Pugh premieres on 1 October.
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