ITV4 Weekend Pulse: From Rogue Drama to Darts Thrills
If you’re looking for a line‑up that feels fresh yet familiar, ITV4’s Saturday and Sunday schedule delivers. From a sly, witty drama to the adrenaline‑filled world of darts, there’s something for every mood. Below is my personal take on each headline show, plus quick advice on who should tune in.
Minder – A Rogue’s Return: Still Entertaining for Drama Enthusiasts
The evening starts with Minder at 05:45, a returning episode of the classic series. The plot follows Ernie’s latest scheme to mind a singer’s dream house, while Arthur’s mischief adds a layer of humor. I find the series holds up well, with its sharp dialogue keeping the pace brisk. It’s a solid pick for anyone who enjoys a character‑driven drama with a sarcastic edge.
The Professionals – Tactical Thriller for the Action‑Avid
Two back‑to‑back episodes start at 06:50 and 07:55. The first, “First Night,” involves an abducted Israeli politician and a coded tape; the second, “Man Without a Past,” follows Bodie’s vigilante turn after a bombing. The show’s pacing is tight, and the chemistry between agents is reliable. Fans of procedural thrillers will find it compelling, though the plot twists are fairly standard.
World Series of Darts: Australian Masters – Sports Fans’ Delight
From 09:00 to 13:00, the darts world turns global. The quarter‑to‑finals, semi‑finals, and final all take place in Wollongong. If you’re a sports enthusiast looking for the high‑stakes feel of darts, this segment is reliable. The commentary is engaging, keeping viewers hooked across the four hours.
Made in Britain – A Slice of Rural Craft
At 13:00 and again at 09:30 on Sunday, Made in Britain shows the transformation of apples into cider and the meticulous craft of Dr. Martens soles. It provides a window into traditional British industry, making it a great choice for viewers who appreciate documentaries that celebrate local heritage. The show is still entertaining for those who enjoy behind‑the‑scenes insights.
The Grand Fishing Adventure – Angler’s Weekend Highlight
The 13:30 slot features the final leg of a fishing tour, with Ali and Bobby tackling trout in Essex before heading to Cambridgeshire. The narrative blends humor and competition, making it a good pick for families where older kids or teens are into outdoor sports.
Sharpe – Historical Action for History Buffs
Two episodes at 14:35 and 16:45 revisit Sharpe’s return to England and the Waterloo campaign. The series is grounded in historical detail, though the pacing can feel slow for younger audiences. It’s a reliable watch for adults who enjoy period dramas with a strong lead.
Cycling: Women’s Tour of Britain Highlights – Sport for the Casual Spectator
The 19:00 slot shows stage four, and the 19:00–20:00 slot covers the fifth and final stage. If you’re looking for a quick, 60‑minute sporting highlight, this is a solid choice. The footage is crisp, and the commentary stays clear without over‑embellishment.
English Football League Highlights – Football Fans Rejoice
From 20:00 to 21:35, the highlights cover multiple Championship matches. The selection is diverse, which makes it a good pick for viewers who want a snapshot of the week’s football action. The commentary remains consistent, keeping the energy high.
All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite – Wrestling for the Edge‑Lover
21:35–23:35 offers a two‑hour wrestling block featuring top talent. The show delivers expected theatrics, but the narrative depth is limited. It’s suitable for older teens and adults who enjoy high‑energy wrestling.
Unwind with ITV – Calm for the Evening
At 01:50 on Sunday, Unwind with ITV provides a brief 10‑minute segment aimed at relaxation. It’s a good option for anyone looking to wind down before bed.
Other Notables – Quick Picks
The schedule also features a mix of sports coverage such as British Touring Car Championship Live (10:00–17:15), the motor‑bike show The Motorbike Show (18:00–19:00), and the film Apollo 13 (20:00–21:00). These are all reliable for their respective audiences.
Bottom Line
ITV4’s weekend lineup offers a balanced mix of drama, sports, and light entertainment. With shows that still entertain and a few that hold up well, viewers can curate a schedule that fits their taste and age group.