Tonight’s TV Line‑up: Tom Hanks Leads WWII Documentary, Bake Off Returns and More

Lead: Tonight’s Prime‑Time TV Highlights

The Guardian’s TV guide for 26 May 2026 showcases a blend of historical documentary, reality competition and drama across the UK’s major broadcasters. From Tom Hanks’s new World War II series on Sky History to beloved formats like Bake Off: The Professionals and Soccer Aid, viewers have a diverse slate at 8‑9 pm.

World War II With Tom Hanks – A Personal Historical Narrative

9pm, Sky History – Tom Hanks executive‑produces, introduces and narrates a six‑part series that traces the conflict from Hitler’s rise to the invasion of Poland. The series promises expert analysis combined with Hanks’s storytelling pedigree from “Band of Brothers” and “Masters of the Air”.

Reality‑Driven Competition Slots on Channel 4 and ITV1

8pm, Channel 4 – Bake Off: The Professionals returns with a secret‑challenge format that forces pastry chefs to reinvent a classic Paris‑Brest without a recipe.
9pm, ITV1 – Soccer Aid blends sport and charity, featuring celebrities such as Olivia Colman, Robbie Williams and Mo Farah in a televised kick‑about.

Drama and Genealogy Offerings on BBC One and Channel 4

9pm, BBC One – Who Do You Think You Are? follows presenter Zoe Ball as she uncovers her family’s Viking and pirate myths, tracing roots from Glasgow to Cornwall.
9pm, Channel 4 – Falling continues Jack Thorne’s slow‑burning romance about a nun and a priest navigating life beyond the convent.

Emerging Platforms Highlight Niche Entertainment

9pm, U&Dave – The Way Out pits comedy teams in an escape‑room‑style competition, showcasing the channel’s focus on quirky, interactive formats.

Impact: A Schedule That Balances History, Competition and Personal Storytelling

The line‑up reflects broadcasters’ strategy to capture audiences seeking both educational content and light‑hearted competition. Historical documentaries like Hanks’s attract viewers interested in depth, while reality formats sustain high‑engagement ratings in the 8‑9 pm window.

Looking Ahead: Continued Emphasis on Hybrid Formats

Given the strong performance of mixed‑genre programming, we can expect more collaborations between high‑profile talent and specialist channels, as well as an expansion of interactive formats on emerging services such as U&Dave.