Top TV Shows to Watch on BBC iPlayer in December 2024

As we close out 2024, BBC iPlayer continues to deliver a mix of thrilling dramas, gripping documentaries, and light-hearted comedies, perfect for cozy winter nights. Whether you're a fan of intense crime series, historical dramas, or gripping real-life stories, the BBC's streaming platform has something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of the top TV shows to catch on BBC iPlayer abroad this December:

1. "Peaky Blinders" (Season 7)

Genre: Historical Crime Drama

One of the most popular British dramas of the last decade, Peaky Blinders returns for its final season. The show follows the Shelby crime family in post-World War I Birmingham, delving deeper into power struggles, betrayals, and family loyalty. With Cillian Murphy returning as the iconic Tommy Shelby, the final season promises to bring explosive drama, stunning performances, and heart-pounding tension to close out this epic saga.

Why Watch: If you love a good mix of history, grit, and gripping family drama, Peaky Blinders is a must-watch.

2. "Doctor Who" (Season 15)

Genre: Sci-Fi, Adventure

After much anticipation, Doctor Who returns with a fresh season featuring a new Doctor, played by Ncuti Gatwa, and a whole new set of thrilling adventures across time and space. With a blend of classic Doctor Who charm and new, exciting storylines, this season is perfect for both long-time fans and newcomers to the series.

Why Watch: If you're a fan of time travel, extraterrestrial creatures, and classic British sci-fi, Doctor Who is a must-see.

3. "Silent Witness" (Season 27)

Genre: Crime, Mystery, Thriller

The long-running forensic crime drama Silent Witness continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling investigations. This season brings new cases for Dr. Nikki Alexander (played by Emilia Fox) and her team of forensic pathologists, as they navigate the complexities of human nature and justice. Known for its emotional depth and intelligent storytelling, Silent Witness never fails to keep you guessing.

Why Watch: For fans of complex, emotional crime dramas with intricate mysteries, Silent Witness offers a compelling experience.

4. "The Outlaws" (Season 3)

Genre: Comedy, Crime, Drama

The Outlaws blends comedy and crime in a brilliant mix, following a group of unlikely individuals who are forced together while serving community service. Season 3 ups the ante as their criminal pasts catch up with them. With a stellar ensemble cast including Stephen Merchant and Rhianne Barreto, this series delivers laughs, tension, and unexpected twists.

Why Watch: If you enjoy dark comedy mixed with thrilling crime plots and strong character development, The Outlaws is a great choice.

5. "Top Gear" (Season 35)

Genre: Motoring, Entertainment

For car enthusiasts and fans of high-octane adventures, Top Gear continues to deliver fast cars, celebrity challenges, and plenty of automotive excitement. The 35th season promises even more daring stunts, in-depth car reviews, and the signature humor the show is known for. Expect a mix of jaw-dropping supercars, rugged off-roading, and celebrity interviews.

Why Watch: If you love cars, motorsports, and good-natured humor, Top Gear is the perfect watch to unwind with.

6. "Happy Valley" (Season 4)

Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller

After a gripping third season that left audiences on the edge of their seats, Happy Valley returns for its much-anticipated fourth and final season. Sarah Lancashire's portrayal of Sergeant Catherine Cawood, as she confronts crime, personal tragedy, and her own demons, is as powerful as ever. This season brings a new crime to solve, while Catherine faces the fallout from past events.

Why Watch: If you enjoy intense, character-driven crime dramas with a focus on human emotion and grit, Happy Valley is not to be missed.

7. "Call the Midwife" (Season 15)

Genre: Historical Drama, Medical, Family

Set in post-war East London, Call the Midwife continues to explore the lives of midwives and nurses in the 1950s and 60s. Season 15 brings more heartwarming stories of motherhood, healthcare, and personal challenges. The series excels at portraying the emotional and social dynamics of the time, blending personal drama with the issues of the day.

Why Watch: If you're a fan of period dramas that delve into the complexities of social issues and human relationships, Call the Midwife offers a beautifully poignant experience.

8. "Luther: The Fallen Sun"

Genre: Crime, Thriller, Psychological Drama

Fans of Luther can rejoice with this special feature-length episode of the psychological crime thriller. Idris Elba returns as the brilliant but troubled detective John Luther, solving complex crimes while wrestling with his own moral dilemmas. This film follows Luther as he faces his biggest challenge yet in a case that forces him to confront his darkest fears.

Why Watch: If you're a fan of edge-of-your-seat thrillers with dark psychological undertones, Luther: The Fallen Sun is a must-watch.

9. "The Apprentice" (Season 20)

Genre: Reality TV, Business

The Apprentice returns with a new group of ambitious candidates vying for the opportunity of a lifetime: to become Lord Sugar’s next business partner. Expect fierce competition, high-stakes challenges, and plenty of drama as the hopefuls battle it out to prove they have what it takes to succeed in the business world.

Why Watch: If you love reality competition shows with a business twist, The Apprentice is packed with ambition, tension, and plenty of drama.

10. "Strictly Come Dancing" (2024)

Genre: Reality, Dance, Entertainment

The UK’s favorite dancing competition show is back for another season of glitz, glamour, and dazzling performances. Celebrities from all walks of life take to the dance floor to show off their moves, and each week, viewers watch as their favorites face elimination. With expert choreography, stunning costumes, and infectious energy, Strictly Come Dancing is an unmissable spectacle.

Why Watch: If you enjoy feel-good, family-friendly entertainment with dazzling performances and celebrity drama, Strictly Come Dancing delivers week after week.

Honorable Mentions:

• "Shetland" (Season 10) – A final season of the beloved crime drama set on the remote Scottish islands.
• "Dancing on Ice" (2024) – Celebrities swap their dancing shoes for skates in this popular winter competition show.
• "The Repair Shop" (Season 15) – Watch experts restore treasured family heirlooms in this heartwarming show.

Conclusion:

BBC iPlayer has a fantastic selection of TV shows to keep you entertained throughout December 2024. From gripping crime dramas and historical epics to feel-good comedies and reality competitions, there’s something for everyone this winter. Whether you're catching up on long-running favorites like Doctor Who and Peaky Blinders, or diving into the latest series like Happy Valley and The Outlaws, you're sure to find something to keep you glued to your screen as the year draws to a close.