Tuesday 5 May 2026 – UK TV Guide: What's on TV today?
05.05.2026 03:00 • News
The evening line-up features a rich tapestry of entertainment options designed to cater to diverse tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for culinary competition or intriguing reality shows, there’s a vibrant array of choices awaiting you. BBC One invites you to witness the culinary ingenuity of aspiring chefs in a series that promises high stakes and mouth-watering dishes. Alternatively, ITV 1's thrilling espionage drama will keep you on the edge of your seat with its suspenseful twists and turns.
For those who appreciate intellectual challenge, BBC Two presents QI XL, where wit and knowledge collide in a delightfully unpredictable format. If laughter is your aim, then CHANNEL 4's Virgin Island offers a refreshing escape with its light-hearted antics. Meanwhile, CHANNEL 5’s Number One Fan explores the complexities of obsession in a gripping narrative. As the clock ticks closer to the hour, you might also want to consider ITV 3’s DCI Banks for a compelling detective story, or E4’s Celebs Go Dating for a humorous look at love in the limelight. There's also ITV 2’s The Real Housewives of Cheshire, showcasing the extravagant lives and drama of its glamorous cast.
Tonight’s highlights (21:00–23:00)
BBC One — 21:00 — MasterChef: Join the culinary excitement as passionate home cooks battle it out for the coveted MasterChef title. Expect creativity, tension, and some truly delicious creations as the pressure builds in the kitchen.
ITV 1 — 21:00 — Secret Service: Dive into the high-stakes world of espionage with Secret Service, where secrets reign supreme and every choice could lead to unforeseen consequences. Get ready for a gripping narrative filled with intrigue.
BBC Two — 21:00 — QI XL: QI XL returns with its unique blend of humour and knowledge, featuring a range of fascinating topics that will amuse and educate viewers alike. Expect the unexpected as the panel navigates through quirky trivia.
CHANNEL 4 — 21:00 — Virgin Island: Escape to the Virgin Island, where sun-kissed beaches and unexpected adventures await. This light-hearted series promises plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments as the characters navigate their way through life.
CHANNEL 5 — 21:00 — Number One Fan: In Number One Fan, dive into the darker side of fandom as obsession turns sinister. This gripping story will keep you guessing as it explores the blurred lines between admiration and obsession.
ITV 3 — 22:00 — DCI Banks: DCI Banks is back with more chilling cases to solve. Join the dedicated detective as he navigates a complex world of crime, uncovering secrets and solving mysteries that will keep you enthralled.
E4 — 21:00 — Celebs Go Dating: Celebs Go Dating offers a hilarious and sometimes awkward look at celebrities seeking love. Watch as they navigate the dating scene with a mix of charm and chaos in their quest for romance.
ITV 2 — 21:00 — The Real Housewives of Cheshire: The Real Housewives of Cheshire showcases the luxurious lives and intense rivalries of its glamorous cast. Expect drama, laughter, and a peek into their extravagant lifestyles.
