TV guide: the best new shows to watch, starting tonight

Tonight marks the debut of several highly anticipated television programs, each offering unique insights and entertainment across different genres. Starting with The Crow Girl on Channel 5 at 9pm, viewers will have the chance to watch the first three episodes of this six-part crime thriller. Originally available on Paramount+, the show is now accessible through terrestrial television, which many consider a positive sign for its reach and popularity. Based on the books by Erik Axl Sund, the series features British actors Eve Myles and Katherine Kelly. Myles portrays DCI Jeanette Kilburn, leading an investigation into the mysterious death of a young man found on a Bristol street. Kelly plays Dr. Sophia Craven, a psychotherapist assisting in the case. As more bodies of young men are discovered, the plot becomes increasingly complex. Notably, the show's executive producer includes Slash, lead guitarist of Guns N’ Roses. On Tuesday, RTÉ One presents Building Ireland, a six-part series exploring the historical and environmental significance of the River Shannon region. Geographer Dr. Susan Hegarty joins engineers and architects to examine the area's built heritage. The first episode focuses on Athlone, highlighting its strategic importance due to its Shannon crossing. Orla Murphy delves into the town’s medieval streetscapes and urban topography, while Tim Joyce examines the engineering challenges of flood defenses. Additionally, Hegarty interviews members of the ESB fisheries team working to protect the endangered European silver eel. This program offers a comprehensive look at the region’s past and future, emphasizing lesser-known aspects of Irish history and culture. Wednesday brings two notable documentaries. On Sky Documentaries at 9pm, Katie Price: Nothing to Hide continues its exploration of the life of British glamour model Katie Price. The documentary, produced by Louis Theroux’s Bafta-winning Mindhouse, provides a fresh perspective on Price’s career, including her early days as a 1990s model, her media engagement, and her relationships with figures such as Peter Andre. The series highlights her struggle to maintain control over her public image within an industry that often dictates it. Meanwhile, on RTÉ One at 9.35pm, Testimony offers a powerful account of the efforts made by survivors of Ireland’s Magdalene laundries, Mother and Baby Homes, and forced family separations. Directed by Aoife Kelleher and written by Kelleher and Rachel Lysaght, the documentary centers on the voices and experiences of those who fought for justice. It features participants like Philomena Lee, whose story was previously depicted in the film Philomena, and human rights lawyer Maeve O’Rourke. Thursday sees the premiere of The Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke on BBC Two at 9pm. The documentary explores the downfall of Ruby Franke, who established a YouTube channel named 8 Passengers in 2015. The series likely delves into the controversies surrounding her online presence and personal life, providing a detailed narrative of her journey and the consequences faced by her family. The documentary promises to offer a critical examination of the issues raised by Franke’s actions and their broader implications.