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Autumn is arguably the best time of year for TV, and when the nights are as wet and cold as they currently are, we can’t think of anywhere else we’d rather be than on the sofa with a bowl of something comforting on our laps and a gripping drama on the screen in front of us.
We’ve got two brilliant new series to shout about this month, and both absolutely deserve a place on your watchlist this October. Meanwhile, if you can peel yourself off the sofa, we have a recommendation for the hottest new musical in town, and we can’t wait to be wowed by the Spanish Riding School of Vienna later this month.
Read on to discover our number one hot watch this month, plus the best of the rest…
HOT WATCH
Joan
When: Sunday 29th September
Where: ITV1 and ITVX
Joan Hannington became one of London's most notorious jewel thieves in the 1980s - and now her fascinating story has been turned into a six-part drama.
Game Of Thrones star Sophie Turner plays the devoted mother who, trapped in a disastrous marriage, decides to take her future into her own hands. When her criminal husband Gary goes on the run, she seizes her opportunity and flees with her six-year-old daughter Kelly in search of a better life.
A fiery and uncompromising woman, Joan will do whatever it takes to protect her daughter. By adopting new identities and meeting a few choice acquaintances along the way, Joan embarks on a thrilling journey into London’s criminal underworld. It’s a high-stakes world that challenges Joan’s every limit but, driven by her unwavering love for her daughter, she’ll stop at nothing to secure the life they deserve.
Watch the first episode of Joan on ITV1 and ITVX on Sunday 29th September at 9pm.
TV
Rivals
A brilliant ensemble cast brings Jilly Cooper’s bestselling 1980s novel to life. A power struggle between Tory MP Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell) and Lord Tony Baddingham (David Tennant) is boiling over and TV presenter Declan O’Hara (Aidan Turner, left, with Victoria Smurfit as Maud) is caught in the crossfire.
Watch on Disney+.
FILM
Joker: Folie À Deux
Joaquin Phoenix reprises his Oscar-winning role in this eagerly anticipated sequel to 2019’s Joker. While institutionalised and awaiting trial for his crimes, the supervillain meets music therapist Lee, aka Harley Quinn (played by Lady Gaga), with whom he finds true love – and a partner in crime. Expect more cinematic brilliance.
In cinemas from 4 October.
THEATRE
Why Am I So Single?
If you loved SIX, which re-imagined Henry VIII’s wives as members of a girl band, you’ll enjoy the equally clever lyrics and catchy tunes in Why Am I So Single? Written by its creators Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss (also director), this new musical is set in the present day and deals with the ups and downs of friendships and dating (there’s even a song about ghosting). You’ll laugh, cry and want to go and see it again with your bestie.
Booking until 13 February 2025, Garrick Theatre, London.
EXHIBITION
Barbara Walker: Being Here
Manchester’s Whitworth Art Gallery is hosting the first major survey exhibition by the British artist, whose work highlights the place of Black communities and culture in art history.
4 October to 26 January 2025, Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester.
EVENT
Spanish Riding School
The prestigious Spanish Riding School of Vienna is returning to the UK for the first time in eight years, heading to London’s OVO Arena Wembley and Aberdeen’s P&J Live. Prepare to be mesmerised as the Lipizzaner stallions perform synchronised routines.
18 to 27 October, OVO Arena Wembley, London.
BOOK AHEAD
Nutcracker In Havana
Renowned ballet director Carlos Acosta has given one of the world’s most performed ballets a Cuban makeover. Touring the UK, this is a stunning spectacle for all ages.
1 November to 28 January 2025; various UK venues.
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