Must-see TV this week: stars confront sharks, Human and Hotel Inspector returns

Seven celebrities go head-to-head with one of nature's biggest predators as they take a trip to paradise in The Bahamas.

ITV is challenging the likes of Sir Lenny Henry and Call the Midwife's Helen George, among other beloved names, to overcome their fear of sharks in a ground-breaking new show premiering this week.

Over on BBC2, Ella Al-Shamahi takes the reins of a compelling docu-series as she digs deep into the vast history of the human species, uncovering secrets from around the globe throughout five thrilling episodes.

Meanwhile, 5 dedicates another documentary to Kate Middleton's 2011 wedding, which officially made her a member of the Royal family. It's the perfect treat to help TV fans prepare for the return of Alex Polizzi in The Hotel Inspector's 20th series later on in the week.

Discovery + viewers can also expect more long-distance love, explosive rows and messy shake-ups in the brand new season of 90 Day Fiancé UK while on Sky, Mariska Hargitay reconnects to a beloved Hollywood icon - her mother, Jayne Mansfield.

Saturday, 5

On April 29, 2011, the world watched as Kate Middleton became the Duchess of Cambridge. This documentary revisits every unforgettable second, from her breathtaking entrance in her Alexander McQueen gown - shrouded in mystery until the big day - to her balcony kiss seen around the globe with her husband Prince William.

With rare footage and royal commentary, this film breaks down the moment-by-moment magic of the big day - including King Charles’ personal involvement. It's a must-watch for royal fans and romantics alike, reliving the fairytale wedding that captivated two billion viewers.

Saturday, Sky

Mariska Hargitay was only three when her mother, Hollywood star Jayne Mansfield, tragically died. In this emotional documentary, the Law & Order: SVU actress uncovers the truth about her glamorous but complicated mother.

Featuring never-before-seen family footage and intimate interviews, Mariska sets out to meet the woman behind the headlines. As she confronts secrets and embraces her legacy, this powerful film reveals a daughter’s raw journey to finally know her mum - and herself. It’s a moving tribute to love, loss and the lasting bond between a mother and her child.

Sunday, discovery +

Love knows no borders - especially in the fourth series of 90 Day Fiance UK. Seven starry-eyed Brits are risking everything to be with their long-distance lovers from places like The Gambia and Albania.

But cultural clashes, jealousy and shock religious conversions threaten their fairy tales. Episode one introduces the new couples as they prepare for their high-stakes reunions, dramatic ultimatums and family clashes. It’s emotional, unpredictable and full of visa drama. Can they say “I do” or will reality ruin the romance?

Sunday, More4

Now in its thirteenth series, 999: On the Front Line returns with raw, real-life drama from the West Midlands Ambulance Service. Each episode, viewers are thrown straight into the chaos as paramedics handle cardiac arrests, severe trauma injuries and harrowing road collisions - all in a single shift.

With bodycam footage and first-hand accounts, this series shines a light on the critical decisions made under pressure. These frontline heroes bring humanity and heart to the toughest job imaginable - and every second matters.

Monday, 4

Things get messier in season two of The Couple Next Door. Charlotte (Annabel Scholey) and Jacob (Sam Palladio) are trying to keep their relationship afloat, but new colleague Mia (Aggy K Adams) has other plans.

Charlotte begins the new season with a blast from the past - her ex-flame Leo (Sendhil Ramamurthy) crawls out of the woodwork. And Mia starts manipulating her way into the couple’s affairs, trust, home and bed. Based on the hit Scandi thriller Dopamin, this sultry psychological drama explores the danger of feeding your darkest fantasies.

Monday, BBC2

Paleoanthropologist Ella Al-Shamahi unearths 300,000 years of human history in this ambitious five-part series. Homo sapiens were once just one of seven human species roaming the Earth.

So why did we survive? And how did we become the dominant species? Using revolutionary fossil science and DNA tech, Ella travels from African dig sites to South American caves - where prehistoric secrets are rewriting everything we thought we knew. From ten-foot bears to ancient migrations, this is a mind-blowing journey into the shared story of all of us.

Monday, ITV

Seven celebs dive into deep water - literally - in this wild five-part shark series. Lenny Henry, Rachel Riley, Ross Noble, Ade Adepitan, Helen George and more face their fears at they get up close and personal with reef sharks.

But the stakes get higher throughout the series, with tiger, bull and hammerhead sharks circling next. From panic to power moves, each star battles their terror with flippers on and heart rates soaring. Who will swim, who will sink - and who will be bait?

Monday, E4

Set sail for a brand new season of Below Deck, where a young, flirtatious crew juggles demanding yacht guests and interpersonal meltdowns on the high seas.

A fresh charter brings champagne tastes, short tempers and high expectations. While tensions simmer below deck, romance and rivalries explode topside.

There’s no escape when you live at work - and sleep with your coworkers. Expect boatmances, breakdowns and beach parties in paradise. Luxury living has never looked so exhausting.

Wednesday, U

Set in 1961 Sydney, Ladies in Black follows Magda (Debi Mazar), the glamorous Head of Model Gowns at Goodes, as she plans her grand departure to start her own boutique.

But the shift in power rattles the team - and more particularly her work friends Lisa (Clare Hughes) and Fay (Jessica de Gouw) who have to adjust to their icy new boss, Mrs Ambrose (Miranda Otto).

Across generations, these women navigate ambition, rebellion and love with elegance and wit. It’s a stylish and heartfelt slice of vintage life.

Wednesday, U&Alibi

London, 1946. War is over, but murder doesn’t sleep. In this darkly charming crime series, Sherlock star Mark Gatiss stars as Gabriel Book - bookshop owner by day, police consultant by necessity.

When a local librarian is found dead in a locked room, Gabriel’s curiosity gets the better of him. With support from his sharp wife Trottie (Polly Walker) and newcomer Jack (Connor Finch), it’s clear Gabriel has secrets of his own. Expect mystery, mayhem and a touch of noir.

Thursday, 5

Alex Polizzi returns for the landmark 20th series of The Hotel Inspector, taking on hospitality nightmares across Britain. She first heads to Devon, where Tracy and Terry run a chaotic guesthouse with an attached spa.

Bookings are low, tensions are high and standards are slipping. But Alex brings her signature no-nonsense approach and expert know-how to turn things around - though not everyone is ready to hear the truth. With the future of the business hanging by a fragile thread, it’s sink or swim.

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