Upcoming Week in Television: Highlights and New Series
As January 20, 2025, approaches, viewers can look forward to an exciting lineup of television programming set against the backdrop of a pivotal political moment—the inauguration of Donald J. Trump. This week promises a mix of new series and sporting events designed to cater to diverse viewing preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the highlights from the upcoming week.
Monday, January 20, 2025
Highlight: ‘The Traitors’ Season 3 Premiere
Starting the week, The Traitors, the globally popular reality show, will premiere its third season on NBC. Hosted by Alan Cumming, this season features a cast of celebrities—including reality stars and former WWE wrestlers—who will navigate a series of challenges that test their ability to deceive and deduce. The show has already debuted on Peacock but will make its highly anticipated network premiere on January 20.
The broadcast schedule for the day includes major political events and entertainment options:
-
ABC:
- 6:30 PM EST – ABC World News Tonight with David Muir
- 10:00 PM EST – The Second Inauguration of Donald J. Trump – An ABC News Special
- 11:35 PM EST – Jimmy Kimmel Live!
- NBC:
- 8:00 PM EST – The Traitors
- 9:30 PM EST – The Traitors
Tuesday, January 21, 2025
On Tuesday, viewers can catch up with several returning shows:
-
ABC will air:
- 8:00 PM EST – Will Trent
- 10:00 PM EST – The Rookie
- NBC:
- 8:00 PM EST – St. Denis Medical
- 10:00 PM EST – The Irrational
Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Midweek programming includes a mix of comedies and competitions:
-
ABC:
- 8:00 PM EST – Shifting Gears
- 9:00 PM EST – Celebrity Jeopardy!
- NBC:
- 8:00 PM EST – Chicago Med
- 9:00 PM EST – Chicago P.D.
Thursday, January 23, 2025
Highlight: ‘C.B. Strike: The Ink Black Heart’
Fans of British crime dramas will be interested in the adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s The Ink Black Heart, premiering on HBO. This series follows Edie, a cartoon creator embroiled in a mystery of online harassment. This fourth part of the series promises to deliver thrilling twists as Edie seeks to unmask those behind the trolling.
- HBO:
- 9:00 PM EST – C.B. Strike: The Ink Black Heart
Friday, January 24, 2025
Highlight: ‘Penn & Teller: Fool Us – 50th Anniversary Special’
As the weekend approaches, Penn & Teller: Fool Us will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a special episode on The CW. The episode honors the duo’s impressive legacy, featuring performances that showcase their unique brand of magic. This will be the start of Season 11 for the show.
- The CW:
- 8:00 PM EST – Penn & Teller: Fool Us
Saturday, January 25, 2025
The weekend kicks off with a combination of sports and comedy:
- NBC will present:
- 11:30 PM EST – Saturday Night Live, hosted by Timothée Chalamet, marking his third time leading the show. Chalamet is currently featured in the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown, a role expected to garner him awards consideration.
Sunday, January 26, 2025
Sunday programming remains light, focusing mainly on sports:
- CBS will air NFL football at various times throughout the day, leading into evening programming featuring Watson.
Conclusion
The upcoming week in television is packed with diverse entertainment options, catering to audiences looking for political news, reality competition, drama adaptations, and comedic relief. Notably, with The Traitors and C.B. Strike premieres, channels are capitalizing on successful formats to attract viewers during a significant political moment. This could lead to increased viewership and discussions around the shows, reflecting the intersection of entertainment and current events. Viewers are encouraged to prepare for an engaging week ahead!
