A new week is here and if you’re too hot and bothered to wade through the TV schedules for something good to watch, we’re here to help. We’ve previewed all of this week’s new shows to bring you the 7 superb ones that won’t disappoint.
From a new cosy crime drama that’s better than Midsomer Murders to a new Hannah Waddingham series and a Motherland replacement, we’ve got something for every mood. So, take a moment to cool off with our pick of the 7 best shows to watch this week on ITV, Netflix, the BBC and more.
The Dark
![all images and content within strictly embargoed until 10am, wednesday the 27th of may.from poison pen studiosthe dark sr1, on itv1 and itvx.pictured: laura donnelly as detective monica kennedy.this photograph is (c) itv studios and can only be reproduced for editorial purposes directly in connection with the programme or event mentioned above, or itv plc. this photograph must not be manipulated [excluding basic cropping] in a manner which alters the visual appearance of the person photographed deemed detrimental or inappropriate by itv plc picture publicity. this photograph must not be syndicated to any other company, publication or website, or permanently archived, without the express written permission of itv picture publicity. full terms and conditions are available on the website www.itv.com/presscentre/itvpictures/terms picture publicity manager:liberty.warner@itv.com](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/d007e99f-a9ba-455f-a394-3165e7fa2d34.jpg?crop=0.668xw:1.00xh;0.160xw,0&resize=980:* "all images and content within strictly embargoed until 10am, wednesday the 27th of may.from poison pen studiosthe dark sr1, on itv1 and itvx.pictured: laura donnelly as detective monica kennedy.this photograph is (c) itv studios and can only be reproduced for editorial purposes directly in connection with the programme or event mentioned above, or itv plc. this photograph must not be manipulated [excluding basic cropping] in a manner which alters the visual appearance of the person photographed deemed detrimental or inappropriate by itv plc picture publicity. this photograph must not be syndicated to any other company, publication or website, or permanently archived, without the express written permission of itv picture publicity. full terms and conditions are available on the website www.itv.com/presscentre/itvpictures/terms picture publicity manager:liberty.warner@itv.com")
ITV's new “hide behind the sofa” drama isn't for the faint-hearted but it is brilliantly gripping. Based on G. R. Halliday’s 2019 novel, From The Shadows, we follow detective Monica Kennedy (The Nevers’ Laura Donnelly) as she’s called upon to investigate a grisly murder in the Scottish Highlands. It soon becomes clear that this isn't a one-off - and that a whole string of murders have been carried out by a cunning killer. The question is, can she catch them before they strike again? Available to watch now on ITVX.
The Westies
One for Peaky Blinders fans, The Westies is set on the streets of 1980s Hell’s Kitchen when the Irish-American organised crime gang known as "The Westies" were involved in all sorts of criminal activities from drug trafficking to extortion. The Westies are brutal and incredibly powerful, but internal conflict between the brash younger generation and the old-school leadership threatens to destroy everything they’ve built. Tom Brittney, Allen Leech and Titus Welliver are among the cast. Episodes 1 and 2 are available to watch now on MGM+.
Ride or Die
If you loved Killing Eve, it’s well worth adding Ride or Die to your watchlist this week. The new series follows Judith (Hannah Waddingham), who's been covertly living a double life as a trained assassin. When she botches a job and things go awry, Judith brings her best friend Debbie (Octavia Spencer) along for the ride. The pair now have a mysterious enemy to hide from, as well a relationship that’s pushed to the brink. The perfect blend of action and comedy. Arriving on Wednesday 15th July on Prime Video.
Lucky
Another one if you like cat-and-mouse thrills, Lucky comes from Reese Witherspoon’s production company and puts Anya Taylor-Joy in the driving seat as the titular con artist who’s forced to go on the run when a multimillion-dollar heist goes wrong. Pursued by both the FBI and a ruthless crime boss played by the brilliant Annette Bening, she must fight for her life - and a way out. Twisty and terrific. Arriving on Wednesday 15th July on Apple TV.
What to read next
FIFA World Cup 2026: Semi-Final
Here we go again - eight years after their last semi-final attempt, England are facing off against Argentina. The match marks their fourth World Cup semi-final, having secured a 2-1 triumph over Norway on Saturday. Whether you’re watching it at home, in a beer garden or tuning in abroad, it’s safe to say it’s going to be a nail-biter. Come on England! Airing on Wednesday 15th July at 7pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Ann Droid
While we sadly can’t promise another series of Motherland, we can look forward to this new iteration (sort of) from star Diane Morgan. The series propels us forward in time to 2029 and sees Diane star as a robot named Linda who’s been developed to keep elderly people company and remove some of the burden from the overwhelmed NHS. She’s gifted to Sue (played by Sue Johnston) as a surprise to help her live independently, only she's Sue’s worst nightmare. The kind of humour we all need right now. Arriving on Friday 17th July on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
The Hairdresser Mysteries
The BBC’s latest cosy crime drama introduces us to hairdresser Lily Petal (Sally Phillips) who, as well as running her own salon, finds herself solving the mysteries of the small village she calls home. Set in the 1970s, Lily has left the city’s competitive salon scene behind, choosing instead to buy a village salon on a quaint cobbled street. So far, so peaceful. But it's not long before eager Police Constable Adam (Ben Castle-Gibb) pulls her into the unexpected role of amateur detective. Better than Midsomer Murders. Arriving on Friday 17th July on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
