The City and the City
9pm, BBC Two
If the opening episode of this metaphysical drama left you a little confused, relax: China Miéville’s source novel delights in misdirection in its early chapters, but things do get clearer. In tonight’s episode, as the investigation into Mahalia’s death continues, Borlú (David Morrissey) pays a visit to Ul Qoma, where he is supposed to act only in an advisory capacity to the local authorities. Plus Borlú thinks far-right Besźel nationalists, the True Citizens, may have been involved in Mahalia’s demise. Jonathan Wright
Sounds Like Friday Night
7.30pm, BBC One
Live performances from big names. Actual pop stars doing quite funny “bits”. Strange but true: Sounds Like … has managed to bottle some of that 70s variety-show magic and take it to a younger audience. Tonight, we get James Bay and Sam Smith, plus more from Dotty with Little Mix. Can Lily Allen get with the good vibes? John Robinson
Episodes
10pm, BBC Two
With things looking up for Matt LeBlanc, he is now getting flooded with job offers. It’s a shame they’re all awful. Luckily, he has Sean to give him some sage career advice. Elsewhere, Beverly is concerned about Carol’s malaise, which is largely manifesting itself in her getting high and watching daytime property shows. Ben Arnold
Lee and Dean
10pm, Channel 4
Episode three of the likable mockumentary (and that lesser-spotted thing, the working-class sitcom). Lee’s love life gets complicated when Mrs Bryce-D’Souza’s on-off husband shows up. And poor, sweet, befuddled Dean shows hidden depths when he premieres his poetry at a local arts club. Ali Catterall
The Graham Norton Show
10.35pm, BBC One
This week, our genial host chats with the stars of new movie Rampage, Dwayne Johnson and Naomie Harris. Martin Freeman discusses his role in the upcoming Brit horror anthology Ghost Stories, while Who vocalist and Brexit enthusiast Roger Daltrey performs his new single. David Stubbs
Front Row Late
11.05pm, BBC Two
Happily, the arts show has been returned to its late-night spot and re-fitted with serious presenters. Tonight, Mary Beard uses new play The Assassination of Katie Hopkins as the basis for a debate about free speech. There is also a flick through Madeleine Albright’s forthcoming book, the jaunty-sounding Fascism: A Warning. Phil Harrison
Film choice
Alien: Covenant 11.55am, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
The crew of the spaceship Covenant, along with android Walter (Michael Fassbender), change course for a strange planet, find a crashed alien craft, go poking around … and we all know where that leads. Ridley Scott pilots this Prometheus prequel-sequel back to original Alien territory. Paul Howlett
Live sport
Commonwealth Games 2018 6am, BBC Two. Rugby sevens and lawn bowls from Down Under.
Premiership Rugby: Newcastle Falcons v Sale Sharks 7pm, BT Sport 1. Action from Kingston Park.
Championship League Football: Aston Villa v Leeds United 7pm, Sky Sports Main Event. Contenders v stragglers at Villa Park.
