Ellie Goulding

The refreshingly naive extravaganza returns, with its pranks and games expanded to the point that star turns from Ellie Goulding and the cast of School Of Rock feel like needless intrusions. McIntyre ribbing a teen about his posey Instagrams, or texting Olly Murs's contacts, is happy fun, devoid of cynicism and enhanced by the host's improv skills. Plus, the finale - with a fireman singing a Les Mis number - is worth 10 X Factors.

The big Saturday nights in are back, with the return of Michael McIntyre's Big Show to the BBC. Considered one of Britain's best stand-up comedians, McIntyre certainly knows how to get a crowd.

Radio Times review

For the second year running, the indefatigable comedian hosts a cheery variety show, filmed at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. Dara O'Briain, Dame Edna Everage and surprise America's Got Talent winner Paul Zerdin provide laughs to go with McIntyre's own zippy observations about the tiny absurdities of a family gathering. Ellie Goulding and Tom Jones are the musical guests, with other celebs dropping in to surprise, and perhaps prank, the live audience.