BBC confirms Christmas schedule with beloved comedy returning and EastEnders bombshell

The One Show: Alison Steadman on Gavin and Stacey filming wrap

Christmas is just around the corner and this year's festive TV schedule is beginning to take shape. The BBC has now confirmed its range of festive TV offerings, with plenty of programmes airing across the two-week Christmas period in December.

From specials and blockbuster movies to comedies and drama, the broadcaster has got everything covered. Details of some highly anticipated programmes have been released, including what EastEnders fans can expect to see at Christmas, as well as the Gavin and Stacey finale.

Charlotte Moore, BBC’s Chief Content Officer said: “No one does Christmas quite like the BBC, and this year we have raised the bar even higher with a cracking line-up that will bring people together across the UK. I’m incredibly excited to be showcasing the finest British creativity and welcoming back some of the nation’s favourite characters in the last ever episode of Gavin and Stacey and the premiere of Wallace & Gromit’s new feature length adventure.

"Alongside a magical mix of new festive shows from the world of comedy, drama, entertainment and factual across the holiday season that viewers can rejoice in. Join us live or on iPlayer - there really is something for everyone!"

Gavin and Stacey is returning to BBC One this Christmas (Image: BBC/Fulwell73 & Tidy Productions/Tom Jackson)

Gavin and Stacey fans have been waiting five years for a follow-up to the last Christmas special and this year they've finally got their wish.

The finale ever episode of the hit sitcom will air on Christmas Day, with fans finally finding out what happened after Nessa proposed to Smithy. Alongside the finale, there's also a special documentary which tells the story of Gavin and Stacey as it comes to a close after 17 years.

Also making a return to TV screens is the Brockman family. The Outnumbered Christmas Special will show what Pete and Sue are up to now, as well as their children, who are now all grown up.

Elsewhere, Doctor Who will be back at Christmas with Joy To The World, a trip through the hsitory of Earth. Ncuti Gatwa is back as the Doctor, while Nicola Coughlan will play Joy.

If you're a Call the Midwife fan then you're in luck, as there's not one but two Christmas specials this year, which will come to a close with a cliffhanger. There's also a new Casualty Christmas special, featuring several guest stars including Lucy-Jo Hudson.

A two-part Call the Midwife Christmas special is scheduled (Image: BBC/Neal Street Productions/Olly Courtney/PA Wire)

EastEnders have some big plot twists lined up for Christmas (Image: BBC )

Christmas on Albert Square is always eventful and this year's EastEnders is no different. The Beales are set to take centre stage on Christmas Day, as Cindy's affair with Junior is finally revealed in spectacular fashion.

A festive feature-length Death in Paradise Christmas special is also scheduled, as well as Beyond Paradise Christmas special. Popular legal drama The Split is back too, with a two-part festive special. Other Christmas specials include Mrs Brown's Boys and The Young Offenders.

There's also some celebrites trying out new skills, with Strictly Come Dancing's Christmas special making a grand return. This year, Josh Widdicombe, Tayce, Vogue Williams, Tamzin Outhwaite, Billy Monger and Harry Aikines-Aryeetey will be taking to the dance floor.

The very first Gladiators Christmas special will also see famous faces try out a new challenge. Rob Beckett, Louise Minchin, Joel Dommet and Ellie Taylor are set to try their hand at being Gladiators this Christmas.

Other entertainment included in the BBC's Christmas schedule includes Vengeance Most Fowl, Wallace & Gromit’s first new film since the 2008, as well as Tiddler, which is an adaptation of the hit picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.