At Christmas, everything seems much better than usual. Houses are decorated, the food is phenomenal, and everyone seems to be full of Christmas cheer. The TV schedules are no exception, as programmers pull out the stops to impress viewers: after all, the right Christmas special can earn a programme a place in the history books, as well as becoming a talking point for the whole nation. With this in mind, here are 10 of the greatest-ever TV specials: from dramatic break-ups to legendary comedy, why not revisit these highlights and watch TV online?
Eastenders: The accolade for highest-ever Christmas viewing figures is awarded to the 1986 special, where Den memorably served Angie with divorce papers for being unfaithful. A record 30 million people tuned in to watch, and the moment has since been voted the best Christmas soap storyline in a poll by Jameson Irish Whisky. Happy Christmas, Ang.
Only Fools and Horses: The lovable brothers always wanted to get rich, and their happy ending was finally awarded to them in the 1996 Christmas special of the much-loved comedy. Watched by some 24 million viewers, the duo waltzed off into the sunset as millionaires, finally.
The X Factor: You might hate to hear it, but the live TV talent contest has become vital Christmas viewing. It’s hard to pick a favourite, but the year Pizza Hut waitress Leona won a million-pound recording contract was pretty heart-warming.
Doctor Who: David Tennant’s first episode was a memorable one, partly because he spent most of it in his pyjamas. The deadly Sycorax threatened mankind’s well-being, but with the Doctor in a deep post-regeneration slumber, who could save us from extinction?
Morecambe and Wise: The M&W Christmas special was once required family viewing. There are plenty of great moments to choose from, but the Penelope Keith ‘Missing Stairs’ sketch from 1977 remains many viewers’ favourite.
The Office: The final episode of the cringey comedy had a soft centre, after lovelorn Tim FINALLY got the girl (receptionist Dawn). A nation collectively 'ahhh'-ed.
Coronation Steet: The highest-rated episode of Corrie boasted a staggering 26 million viewers as they tuned in to see the much-loved Hilda Ogden leave to start a new life in Derby. Despite a national uproar and even a 'Save Hilda' campaign, actress Jean Alexander was adamant, and her last scenes were shown in the 1987 Christmas special.
Vicar of Dibley: The Dibley residents took part in their own version of the nativity in 1999, when the heavily pregnant Alice felt a twinge during her star-turn as Mary.
Father Ted: The Irish holy man had plenty of mishaps (thanks mainly to his ditzy right-hand man Dougal), but this episode remains a highlight. Father Ted and a host of other priests are trapped in Ireland’s biggest lingerie department: can Ted lead them to safety?
The Snowman: Not strictly a Christmas special, but this makes the line-up for being a part of everyone’s Christmas for the past 28 years. The snow, the party, the Father Christmas cameo: what’s not to love?
While the Christmas special of your favourite programme is a festive must-do, there’s a couple of things you need to sort out before you settle down to watch; TV Licensing is a legal requirement in the UK, with every household watching television shows as they are being broadcasted. Even if you don’t have a television, preferring DVDs or to watch TV online, you will still need a TV Licence if you watch any live TV using a computer or similar device.
Luckily, the whole thing is easily sorted with a quick call to the TV Licensing department, to check your licence is up-to-date and organised for the Christmas period. After that, it’s easy: change into comfy clothes, crack open the nice chocolates, and relax.
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