FRIDAY

WINTER OLYMPICS: OPENING CEREMONY 11.30AM, BBC1

In stark contrast to the grand 2008 opening ceremony, also directed by Zhang Yimou, this promises to be an altogether more low-key affair as the Olympic flame is lit in Beijing.

WORLD’S MOST SCENIC RIVER JOURNEYS 7PM, CH5

This week’s journey is a trip into the past in southwest France as we soar over fairytale castles in a hot-air balloon and explore a once-vital waterway in traditional boats.

GEORGE CLARKE’S AMAZING SPACES 8PM, CH4

George visits a mum who is building a straw bale house with her three daughters, and a

man who is creating a unique camping pod.

DEATH IN PARADISE

9PM, BBC1

In his first case since Florence’s departure, Neville investigates when a young pop star is found dead at a rehab clinic. It initially looks like a tragic accident, but of course, there is more to her death than meets the eye.

THE GRAHAM NORTON SHOW

10.35PM, BBC1

Joining Graham are Oscar-nominated actress Uma Thurman, promoting new thriller series Suspicion, and Ariana Debose, who plays Anita in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story.