What to watch on TV and streaming today: Pluribus, Empire with David Olusoga and The Hurt Locker
Pick of the day
Empire with David Olusoga
Empire with David Olusoga
BBC Two, 9pm
The historian presents a four-part insight into the British Empire. It starts by looking at its origins during the reign of Elizabeth I, a period in which England was the poor relation of such European powerhouses as Spain and Portugal.
Two Mules for Sister Sara
Two Mules for Sister Sara
Friday, TG4, 9.05pm
Brilliant Western starring Shirley MacLaine as a nun who isn’t quite what she seems, with Clint Eastwood as the gunslinger protecting her.
How Are You? It’s Alan (Partridge)
How Are You? It’s Alan (Partridge)
BBC One, 9.30pm
The series concludes with Alan in philosophical mood – again – before a tragic death inspires him to put everything in perspective. Steve Coogan and Felicity Montague star.
The Hurt Locker
The Hurt Locker
RTÉ2, 9.40pm
Kathryn Bigelow’s Oscar-winning Iraqi war drama focuses on a bomb disposal expert (Jeremy Renner) whose reckless manner puts his colleagues at risk.
Pluribus
Pluribus AppleTV+, streaming now
Fans of Better Call Saul will be thrilled to learn that Kim (Rhea Seehorn) is joining forces with show creator Vince Gilligan for this new sci-fi drama, for which AppleTV+ has commissioned two series. What’s it about? Well, in short, it follows the most miserable person on earth who must save the world from happiness. Relatable.
Michael Shannon as James Garfield in Death by Lightning. Photo: Larry Horricks/Netflix
Death by Lightning
Netflix, streaming now
Tom from Succession is in the mix for this new drama that retells the strange true story of President James Garfield and his devoted admirer-turned-assassin, Charles Guiteau. If you find Tyler Perry preferable, Finding Joy will be available on Prime Video from Wednesday.
The Vince Staples Show. Photo: Netflix
The Vince Staples Show
Netflix, streaming now
Season 2 brings more surreal comedy and sharp satirical wit as real-life rapper Vince searches for peace after a tragic loss.
Heweliusz. Photo: Netflix
Heweliusz
Netflix, streaming now
Based on the true events of 1993, this stark Polish drama charts a catastrophic ferry disaster in the Baltic Sea, leading to the death of 55 passengers. For something far fluffier, Gretchen Wieners is back starring in Christmas movies, including Haul Out The Holly and its entirely necessary sequel.
Squid Game: The Challenge returns. Photo: Netflix © 2025
Squid Game: The Challenge
Netflix, streaming now
Season 2 of the reality show returns with 456 brand new contestants competing for a life-changing $4.56m prize… How’s that for a prize pot The Traitors Ireland? Anyone who saw Season 1 will know the original series inspired it, but it features black blood pellets instead of red, so all the killings aren’t as traumatising (sure, we might as well stave off actual snuff viewing for as long as possible). This season, expect jarring new twists, novel games alongside some old favourites, and the usual ruthless psychological tactics. Players must navigate relentless challenges, shifting alliances, and constant elimination – all while trying to outwit each other. With communal kipping and unpredictability, the competition pushes physical and mental endurance to the precipice, with one lone player surviving to snatch victory amid a wave of wanton gaslighting. For realz; one player even fakes expecting his firstborn, such is the level of lying.
Kenny Dalglish
Kenny Dalglish
Prime Video, streaming now
Joined by wife Marina, close friends, and a few devoted fans, Kenny Dalglish guides us through rare personal footage and extensive archives, tracing his journey from football legend to national treasure.
In Waves and War. Photo: Netflix © 2025
In Waves and War
Netflix, streaming now
This documentary follows three Navy Seals attempting to navigate deep post-combat trauma. When nothing else works, they try psychedelic therapy, finding unexpected hope in the process.
The Moonies: Married to the Cult
The Moonies: Married to the Cult
Prime Video, streaming now
The Unification Church (AKA the ‘Moonies’) preached peace through matchmaking and mass weddings. But beneath the surface, there were the expected levels of fractured families, cult-like control, and billions of dollars in global assets. Now, in this true crime special, insiders break their silence, including Reverend Moon’s secret son Sam Park, who shares his story for the first time.
