What to watch on TV on Sunday 23 June, from Suranne Jones on witch trials to Gordon Ramsay in Ireland
SHE’S one of the UK’s best-loved actresses, but tonight Suranne Jones branches out into documentary-making as she explores the history of witch trials that have taken place all over the world.
“For as long as I can remember, I’ve been intrigued by the idea of witches,” says Suranne, whose interest in witchcraft has led her to create this fascinating documentary, which starts by exploring the stories of thousands of women who were accused of dark magic in the 17th century.
But Suranne isn’t the only telly legend making a comeback tonight, as Gordon Ramsay also returns with series four of Uncharted, while a host of massive pop stars gather for Capital’s Summertime Ball.
Here are TV Mag’s six telly picks for Sunday 9 June 2024…
Suranne Jones: Investigating Witch Trials (9pm C4)
Suranne’s journey begins in Pendle, Lancashire, where 10 people – eight females – were executed in 1612 in one of the most famous witch trials in English history.
But as Suranne explores this intriguing case, she soon discovers that it was society’s view of women that often led to these terrifying convictions and executions.
Suranne’s genuine enthusiasm and curiosity shines through as she digs deeper into the history of witchcraft, and she even has the pleasure of meeting the women reclaiming the word ‘witch’.
Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted (6pm Nat Geo)
Gordon Ramsay is dishing up a fourth helping of Uncharted, the series that sees him exploring some of the world’s most amazing foodie places.
As usual, he’ll battle tough challenges to grab the tastiest treats before cooking against a local hero.
This week Gordon’s on the rugged West coast of Ireland, with pal and former protégé Anna Haugh.
After gathering prized Connemara oysters, Gordon struggles with Guinness for breakfast, but he’s happy to wolf down the seafood that sells for £9 a pop in London.
“Forking gorgeous!” grins Gordon.
However taking on a former record holder in an oyster-shucking contest could wipe the smile off his face…
Capital’s Summertime Ball 2024 (6.30pm ITV1)
Don’t worry if you missed out on tickets to Capital FM’s annual music extravaganza at London’s Wembley Stadium, as hosts Jordan North, Sian Welby and Chris Stark are bringing you all the best bits tonight from an incredible day of live music.
This year’s Summertime Ball includes performances from RAYE, Sabrina Carpenter, Meghan Trainor, Perrie and David Guetta.
Shetland: Scotland’s Wondrous Isles (9pm C5)
The stunning rural fly-on-the-wall series continues on Yell.
Shetland’s second largest island becomes the centre of the universe each year as the residents gear up for their annual agricultural and horticultural celebration of local heritage.
While third-generation farmer James is struggling to herd his problematic cows, who aren’t overly keen on taking part, veg grower John can’t wait to show off his huge pumpkin.
And members of a woodworking community group are in fine voice as they practise some rousing sea shanties.
Countryfile (5.30pm BBC1)
This evening’s Countryfile episode sees Joe Crowley enjoying a lovely day out on the Norfolk Broads, exploring the area’s history and mingling with the locals.
However, at the Horning Sailing Club, the sailors embarking on ‘Europe’s toughest inland sailing competition’ – the Three Rivers Race – are not quite so relaxed.
That’s because they must summon every ounce of stamina, skill and overall boatmanship to navigate 50 miles of the Bure, Ant and Thurne rivers within the race’s 24-hour time limit.
UEFA Euro 2024: Scotland v Hungary (7pm BBC1)
Scotland’s group stage campaign comes to an end tonight at the 55,000-capacity MHPArena in Stuttgart against a Hungary side that boasts few household names, but which is captained by industrious Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai.
Will he – or his club mate, Scotland skipper Andy Robertson – be able to claim bragging rights at the end of 90 minutes?
It promises to be an intriguing clash between two teams that, on paper at least, are evenly matched.