5 hours ago
5
The Hack
9pm, ITV1
In 2011, the Guardian uncovered widespread illegality – including phone hacking – at the News of the World, with far-reaching repercussions. Perhaps this drama can do for the scandal what Mr Bates vs the Post Office did for post office operators. Written by Jack Thorne, The Hack stars Toby Jones as the Guardian’s former editor Alan Rusbridger and David Tennant as Nick Davies, the reporter who broke the story. Journalism is notoriously difficult to dramatise and not all the flashbacks, subplots and narrative tricks quite work. But it’s a worthwhile attempt to refocus on events that still feel significant. Phil Harrison
The Shadow Scholars: Fake Essay Scandal
10pm, Channel 4
As illustrations of global inequality go, this documentary takes some beating. It explores a hidden industry, in which thousands of highly educated, underemployed Kenyans are being paid to write essays for students in the US and Europe. Can education retain innate value in the context of this trade and the rise of artificial intelligence? Fascinating and profoundly depressing. PH
Location, Location, Location
8pm, Channel 4
After moving to Australia, Claire and Mark return to Edinburgh looking for a for ever home – but the rocketing market means that even the starter flats Claire remembers from her youth now have a hefty price tag. Kirstie Allsopp and Phil Spencer are on hand to help – if they can. Hollie Richardson
The Donald Trump Show
9pm, Channel 4
This smartly crafted series deploys news footage and faux-folksy narration to hammer home the awkwardness, obliviousness and belligerence that occur when you put the current US president in front of a TV camera. The final episode examines Trump’s chaotic foreign policies at a time of multiple global crises. Graeme Virtue
Cracking the Case: The Torso Wrapped in Plastic
10pm, BBC Two
This episode takes on one of the most disturbing crimes in Greater Manchester’s history. It’s a 2024 murder and dismemberment case, which began when a clingfilm-wrapped human body part was discovered dumped at a picturesque nature reserve. Former detective Rebecca Mason offers her thoughts on where the police investigation went next. Ellen E Jones
The Ibiza Final Boss: Haircuts and Hangovers – Untold
12.05am, Channel 4
If you’ve spent any time at all on social media this summer, you’ll be aware of Jack Kay. Better known as the Ibiza Final Boss, his distinctive haircut and dance moves made the Newcastle lad a viral sensation. Inevitably, he is now trying to monetise his 15 minutes of fame. This short documentary follows his progress. PH
