Netflix is set to release a new seven-part adaptation of John Steinbeck’s novel *East of Eden* on Thursday. This version, written and executive produced by Zoe Kazan, granddaughter of the original film’s director Elia Kazan, shifts the narrative focus to Cathy Ames, portrayed by Florence Pugh. The story centers on the morally complex Cathy and her profound influence on the Trask and Hamilton families in California’s Salinas Valley at the turn of the 20th century. Supporting roles feature actors Mike Faist, Christopher Abbott, and Ciaran Hinds.
Also debuting on Thursday at 7 p.m. on Channel 5 is the second series of *Sam & Ade Go Birding*, a nature program hosted by Samuel West and Adrian Edmondson. The quick renewal follows the success of its first season earlier this year. The episode follows the presenters to Yorkshire, where they observe swallows, swifts, and house martins along a riverside, before rising early to capture the dawn chorus. The timing of the series intends to coincide with the spring migration season and fits around West’s schedule with *All Creatures Great and Small*.
BBC1 continues its primetime programming with the return of *The Celebrity Traitors* at 8 p.m. Thursday. The new season introduces a diverse lineup of well-known figures, including journalist Amol Rajan, actor Bella Ramsey, comedian James Acaster, and singer James Blunt. Joining them are model Jerry Hall, comedians Joanne McNally and Joe Lycett, actress Julie Hesmondhalgh, and content creator King Kenny. The cast is further bolstered by former Little Mix member Leigh-Anne Pinnock, *Love Island* host Maya Jama, actor and presenter Michael Sheen, comedian Miranda Hart, actor Myha’la, and Professor Hannah Fry. Additional participants include actors Richard E Grant, Ross Kemp, Sharon Rooney, and comedians Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan. In a supplementary program titled *Traitor or Faithful? Claudia Decides*, host Claudia Winkleman explains her casting choices, which will be available on iPlayer from 9:15 p.m., followed by *The Celebrity Traitors: Uncloaked*, featuring Ed Gamble and guest commentary.
On Friday at 9:30 p.m., BBC1’s *Have I Got News for You* returns for its 72nd series. Regular captains Paul Merton and Ian Hislop will be joined by Richard Ayoade, who returns as guest host for the 15th time. Former politician and broadcaster Gyles Brandreth appears as a panellist for his 10th stint. The show will likely touch on recent political developments, including the appointment of the UK’s new Prime Minister.
Prime Video launches *Kill Jackie* on Friday, a revenge thriller headlined by Catherine Zeta-Jones in her native Welsh accent. Based on Nick Harkaway’s novel *The Price You Pay*, the series follows Jackie Price, a former international drug smuggler who has lived off her illicit earnings for two decades. When hitmen known as The Seven Demons are hired to kill her, Jackie embarks on a quest to uncover who is behind the contract and why.
Looking ahead to Monday at 8 p.m. on Channel 4, Jamie Oliver returns with *Jamie’s 20-Minute Meals*, a cooking show filmed in one continuous take to highlight the preparation of quick and nutritious dishes. The premiere features two recipes: a camembert and onion rice inspired by French onion soup, paired with croutons, and a crispy breadcrumbed chicken dish served with charred broccoli and garlic-infused creamy beans. This format promises an unedited, real-time glimpse into Oliver’s kitchen.