Olympic cycling hero Sir Chris Hoy opens up about his terminal cancer diagnosis in a profoundly moving and inspirational television special airing this evening. The programme, Sir Chris Hoy: Cancer, Courage and Me, follows his defiant and constructive response to the prognosis, centred around a monumental fundraising effort.
An Olympian's Defiance: The Tour de Four
At the heart of the BBC One documentary is the Glasgow: the Tour de Four bike ride, an initiative conceived by Hoy himself. The event spectacularly surpassed its ambitious fundraising goal, raising over £1 million for cancer charity. The film powerfully argues that a dire medical prognosis does not have to signify an end, but can be a catalyst for positive action and legacy. Hoy is supported by famous friends including fellow sporting knights Andy Murray and Jason Kenny, who lend their support to his mission.
Tonight's Unmissable TV Lineup
The evening's schedule is packed with standout programming across the channels. Kicking off at 7pm on BBC One is the glittering BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025 ceremony, live from MediaCity in Salford. Hosted by Alex Scott, Gabby Logan, and Clare Balding, the awards are expected to be dominated by the Lionesses' Euros victory and the Ryder Cup, with golfer Rory McIlroy tipped as favourite for the main award.
Channel 4 offers a festive behind-the-scenes look at Inside Baileys at Christmas (8pm), exploring whether its new Terry's Chocolate Orange flavour will become a seasonal staple. Meanwhile, BBC Four (8pm) presents a treat for literature lovers as Monica Dolan narrates Jane Austen's 'Persuasion' in Persuasion: The Read With Monica Dolan, a fitting tribute in the author's 250th birthday year.
More Prime-Time Choices
For adventure seekers, ITV1 (8.30pm) broadcasts Steve Backshall's Royal Arctic Challenge, where the environmentalist retraces King Charles's 1975 Canadian Arctic trip, featuring polar bears, icebergs, and a royal interview. BBC Three (9pm) airs the concluding double bill of the comedy Daddy Issues, starring David Morrissey, Aimee Lou Wood, and Sharon Rooney, promising both lewd humour and moving moments.
Tonight's television offers a powerful blend of real-life courage, sporting celebration, festive insight, and classic storytelling, providing compelling viewing for all audiences.
