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

Tonight marks the start of a week packed with television highlights, featuring a mix of documentaries, concerts, and dramas that promise both insight and entertainment. Among the standout offerings is The Healy-Raes: Blood Sweat & Tears, a documentary airing Wednesday on RTÉ One at 9.35pm. The programme delves into the lives of the Healy-Rae family, long known for their political influence in Kerry. The focus is on how the family has maintained its power over five decades, particularly in light of recent challenges such as Michael Healy-Rae's resignation as minister of state following the fuel protests. The documentary offers unprecedented access to the brothers, following them from the 2024 general election through the aftermath of Michael’s departure. Viewers can expect glimpses of the family on their farm, engaged in business ventures, and interacting with other family members who may one day step into public life. The documentary also features the “Healy-Rae army,” the dedicated volunteers who support the family’s political ambitions. On Saturday, BBC Two presents a special concert celebrating Paul Simon’s iconic album Graceland. Recorded during a personal and professional low point in the mid-1980s, the album was inspired by mbaqanga street music introduced to Simon by musician Heidi Berg. His subsequent journey to South Africa and return to the U.S. resulted in Graceland, a masterpiece that, despite controversy over the cultural boycott of South Africa, brought global attention to African music and helped shape conversations around apartheid. A Proms concert commemorating the album took place on August 5th, and the performance will be broadcast on Saturday at 7.30pm. The concert includes performances by Ladysmith Black Mambazo, alongside guest appearances by Laura Mvula, James Bay, Flyte, and the Nu Civilisation Orchestra led by Peter Edwards. Audience members are encouraged to dance along as they watch. Sunday brings Sunny Nights, an eight-part comedy-drama starring comedian and actor Will Forte and actor D’Arcy Carden. The series follows American siblings Martin and Vicki Marvin, who travel to Sydney to launch a spray-tan business, believing the city’s awareness of skin cancer makes it an ideal location for their venture. Upon arrival, they find themselves staying at the Sunny Nights motel, where they encounter con artists Susi and Kash. Despite their initial reluctance to become entangled in crime, the siblings must navigate the local underworld to sustain their business. The show leans more toward entertainment than realism, but the chemistry between Forte and Carden ensures a compelling viewing experience. Monday and Tuesday feature The Rose of Tralee, a beloved annual competition that continues to thrive in Irish culture. Celebrating its 66th year, the event retains its charm while evolving to reflect contemporary values. Hosted by Dáithí Ó Sé and Kathryn Thomas, the competition sees 32 participants representing Irish counties and the Irish diaspora, including regions such as the United States, UAE, Australia, and New Zealand. The highlight of the show occurs when contestants reveal their hidden talents, offering a glimpse into their diverse abilities beyond the pageantry. The two-night event begins at 8pm each night on RTÉ One, drawing viewers eager to witness another edition of this enduring tradition.