Ruth Jones (I)

Preview - Stella

Ruth Jones's comedy drama returns for one final series.

A bit like Gogglebox, but for the news, this new series finds the topical stories of the day - from breaking news to bizarre headlines - dissected by "real British people". So, that means dinner ladies from Leeds, market traders from London's East End and butchers from Birmingham. The folk giving their two penn'orth are so chosen for their incisive wit and "unfiltered" manner, so expect blunt reactions to the week's news. Ruth Jones is on voiceover duties.

Preview - Common Sense

Anyone with any common sense will be able to tell you that the production company behind Gogglebox is trying to repeat the same formula elsewhere.

Compounding the fact that the comedy-drama isn't going anywhere (creator and star Ruth Jones told of "how cross" she was earlier this year over rumours it was facing the axe after five series), here's a festive special. As the season of goodwill approaches, it's a time for families coming together, with some new faces in Pontyberry (including folk singer Kate Rusby making a cameo), as well as a few familiar ones returning.

What to expect from the Stella Christmas special

It's jolly but never twee - potty-mouthed Rhian and returning guest Scott Quinnell have put paid to any of that (the latter has Christmas-comedy line of the year).

Why I love Nighty Night

It's pitch black dark, but Alison Carr recommends Julia Davis's masterpiece as a cast-iron laugh factory.

Stella is not ending yet, says Ruth Jones

Ruth Jones says more Stella is on the cards.

Very British Problems - very funny!

This summer I am on the lookout for funny shows to help balance the rest of my responsibilities. At the same time, I have expanding my viewing options by looking into programs from abroad. I have recently run across the perfect mix of the two in Very British Problems.

Binging: Gavin and Stacey

You've finished The Wire, Breaking Bad and The Killing but you're still hungry for more boxsets. Fear not, Standard Issue writers are on the case with some gems you might not yet have seen. Vix Leyton tips her Welsh hat to Ruth Jones and James Corden.