NITV - Programs and Schedules

TV.Cynic · November 21, 2024, 5:46am

Troy Kingi Desert Hikoi

Sunday, 1 December at 10.15pm

Multi-award-winning Māori musician and actor, Troy Kingi, is up to his 8th album in his ambitious 10/10/10 mission where he aims to record 10 albums, in 10 genres, in 10 years. However, for the past few years, writer’s block has caused Troy’s creative river to run dry.

In the hopes to source some much-needed inspiration for his upcoming Desert Rock album (a first love genre for him), Troy makes the journey from Kerikeri to Joshua Tree. With the ambitious schedule of writing and recording an entire album in just ten days, Troy and his band need to dig deep. Lucky for them, the Joshua Tree desert is filled with lots of interesting and eccentric locals who are more than happy to help Troy and the band get inspired.

Episode One: Desert Dream
Upon arriving in Joshua Tree, California, Troy Kingi and his band are taken to a sacred site by the local Tangata Whenua in 40 degree Celsius temperatures.

Piri’s Tiki Tour - Season 5

Tuesday, 3 December at 7.30pm

Well-loved former Rugby All Black Piri Weepu is back on the road and out on the water! Piri’s traveling around Aotearoa fishing, diving and gathering kai (food) alongside hardcase hearty locals and some rugby legends. This season, Piri’s adventures will take him deep into the rural heart of the country.

Episode One: Bluff
Piri’s in Motupõhue, Bluff. Hosted by local Dan Tarrant, he’s targeting local delicacy Bluff oysters and Blue Cod. Next he jumps on some big machinery with Ex Southland Stag Jason Kawau.

Episode Two: Wellington
Piri’s in his hometown of Wellington. He’s hosting his own whānau (extended family) for dive targeting mussels. He has a go at waka ama (outrigger canoeing) with ex Rugby Hurricane John Schwalger and his whānau. Then he coaches the Wellington Boys High 1st XV.

Spinal Destination

Thursday, 5 December at 8.30pm

Episode Three:
Tempers flare between the residents, and Tessa becomes suspicious when she discovers a mystery lady is taking over her house and her husband.

Episode Four:
Dan gets the all-clear to go home, but is he ready to leave his fellow Goldfield’s family? Tessa tries to reconnect with Karl.

Long Story Short: Willie Nelson 90

Saturday, 7 December at 10.15pm

Fans will have the opportunity to re-live or experience for the first time, the once-in-a-lifetime interpretations of many classics from the Willie Nelson songbook.

This two-hour-plus limited release film features unimaginable collaborations, surprise appearances, music royalty and the man himself. Long Story Short: Willie Nelson 90 features a selection of the most memorable performances and once-in-a-lifetime collaborations from the star-studded two-day concert event celebrating his milestone 90th Birthday. Guests include Sheryl Crow, Norah Jones, Snoop Dogg, Keith Richards and George Strait.

TV.Cynic · November 28, 2024, 6:31am

Music season

Electric Lady Studios: A Jimi Hendrix Version

Sunday, 8 December at 8.30pm Premiere
This documentary details the creation of Electric Lady Studios, rising from the rubble of a bankrupt, Greenwich Village nightclub to the state-of-the-art recording facility inspired by Jimi Hendrix’s vision.

Singing Country: Clint Bracknell
Monday, 9 December at 8.30pm
Karla Grant presents Singing Country. As a music-maker and language revivalist from the south coast Noongar region of Western Australia, Clint Bracknell’s work intersects with applied linguistics, ecomusicology and Indigenous studies.

Poly Styrene: I Am A Cliche
Monday, 9 December at 9.05pm
The death of punk icon and X-Ray Spex frontwoman Poly Styrene sends her daughter on a journey across the world and through her mother’s archives to reconcile their fraught relationship.

Westwind: Djalu’s Legacy
Monday, 9 December at 10.50pm
Djalu Gurruwiwi is an aging elder who is running out of time to pass on the Yidaki Songlines entrusted to him for the future of his people, before it dies with him. When Djalu breaks with tradition to try and save it, world-famous musician Gotye becomes an unexpected family member and helps amplify Djalu’s songs to the world.

UB40 Featuring Ali Campbell Live Concert
Saturday, 14 December at 10.25pm Premiere
Get a front-row view of UB40’s “In Memory of Astro” concert at Ziggo Dome, Amsterdam. The album was created to inject a little reggae sunshine into even the darkest days, and as a fitting memorial to Astro.

Troy Kingi’s Desert Hikoi

Sunday, 8 December at 10.10pm

Episode Two: Sacred Healing
Troy and Treye meet local shamans, Danny and Jael, to explore plant medicines and learn how these natural medicines can aid creativity and unlock pathways within.

Piri’s Tiki Tour - Season 5

Tuesday, 10 December at 7.30pm

Episode Three: Bluff
Piri’s in Raglan. He’s hosted by his high school friend Jordan and Ex All Black Liam Messam, targeting snapper. Then he learns some jet-ski water safety from the team at Aotearoa Water Patrol.

Episode Four: Wellington
Hosted by local Headmaster Hone Manuel, Piri and team fish for snapper and gather pipi. Next, Piri’s off to train Thames Valley Women’s rugby team and jumps on the Coromandel Zipline tour.

Spinal Destination Final Episodes

Thursday, 12 December at 8.30pm

Episode Five:
Tessa breaks the rules yet again at Goldfields and the consequences of her actions leave everyone shocked.

Episode Six:
Tessa and the gang make a dramatic bid for freedom - to the pub. Then, walking Tessa returns with a vengeance.

Kiwi Christmas - Family Movie

Friday, 13 December at 7.30pm

In this Kiwi Christmas movie, Santa gets sick of the materialism surrounding Christmas and runs away to New Zealand, but two children quickly discover who he is.

Starring Lucy Andrews, Sia Trokenheim and Kari Väänänen.

JohnsonTV · November 28, 2024, 8:25am

Is NITV really struggling to fill the schedule with Indigenous content from Canada, USA and NZ? This series of shows should be on SBS Viceland instead.

killy06 · November 28, 2024, 9:00am

I’d say so, nothing new there. They can only make / acquire so much Indigenous content with budget vs audience without being repeat city.

Why can’t there be adjacent general supporting content on the channel which airs around Indigenous programming?

yellow_sock · November 28, 2024, 11:04am

Airing shows and movies from other countries is nothing new for NITV. I know it is hard to fill the channel with new indigenous shows 24/7.

I don’t think Volumz has aired for a while, but it would be nice to air in the late slot to fill the void. Or extended versions of Bamay, an aerial footage show. Or even “slow tv” repeats.

JPA · November 28, 2024, 11:07am

Nothing new - once time I noticed that NITV were airing Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

TV.Cynic · December 5, 2024, 6:23am

Lee Fields, Faithful Man

Sunday, 15 December at 8.30pm

Lee Fields is a funk and soul legend 50 years in the making. Discover his journey to find his place in music history from vinyl to virtual - and back again.

Troy Kingi’s Desert Hikoi

Sunday, 15 December at 10.10pm

Episode Three: The Rancho
With a rush of inspiration, we see the genius side of Troy emerge as he gets to work in the famous Rancho De la Luna recording studio.

Also in Music season

Singing Country: Carissa Nyalu
Monday, 16 December at 8.30pm

Karla Grant presents Singing Country. This episode, she talks with Carissa Nyalu. Carissa is a Yorta Yorta Dja Dja Wurrung singer/songwriter and storyteller based in Boonwurrung Country on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria.

Roberta Flack
Monday, 16 December at 9.00pm

Roberta Flack gave voice to a global soundtrack of beauty and pain, love and anguish, hope and struggle. In this documentary, we see a brilliant artist who transformed popular culture, in her own words.

I Called Him Morgan
Monday, 16 December at 10.30pm

On a snowy night in 1972, celebrated jazz musician Lee Morgan was shot to death by his wife at a club in New York City. The memory of the event still haunts those who remember the Morgans. This is an evocatively filmed documentary about two unique personalities, the music that brought them together, love, jazz and America.

Jimi: All Is By My Side
Thursday, 19 December at 9.30pm

Outkast’s Andre 3000 stars in a flawless performance as the iconic Jimi Hendrix in the directorial debut of Oscar-winning writer John Ridley. Also stars Imogen Poots and Hayley Atwell.

Bob Marley: Uprising Live
Saturday, 21 December at 10.35pm Premiere

The Uprising Tour was Bob Marley’s last tour before his tragically early death in May 1981. On June 13th the live show from Dortmund’s Westfalenhalle was filmed for the famous German music TV series Rockpalast and is presented here with footage restored to the best possible quality. Bob Marley and the Wailers are in superb form and deliver a set of hit singles and classic album tracks.

The Walkers

Thursday, 19 December at 8.30pm

The Walkers is an observational documentary series that explores the intriguing life of Aotearoa’s favourite cousin Stan Walker and his whānau. In 2018 the country was captivated by the documentary Stan, which allowed Aotearoa a peek through the curtain into the life of Stan Walker as he went through a life-saving surgery to have his stomach removed. Two years on, his life has completely changed, and this series will pull back the curtain all together to show an all-access view of Stan Walker navigating his way through a complicated life with his whānau (family).

Episode One:
Singer, actor, and now author, Stan Walker is a name that most New Zealanders are familiar with. But how many know the man behind the name?

Episode Two:
After twelve challenging years since winning Australian idol, Stan is on the verge of turning 30. This means reassessing the priorities in his life and making time for those who matter most to him.

Let Me In - movie

Saturday, 21 December at 8.30pm

Based on the original Swedish screenplay and novel ‘Let The Right One In’, this film explores the fragility and loneliness of children as a young boy who is being bullied befriends a young female vampire who lives in secrecy with her guardian.

Directed by Matt Reeves. Starring Kodi Smit-McPhee, Chloe Grace Moretz and Richard Jenkins.

TV.Cynic · December 10, 2024, 11:55pm

Celebrate truth, knowledge and cultures with Always Was, Always Will Be this January 26 on NITV and SBS

Powerful feature-length documentary One Mind One Heart premieres Sunday 19 January at 8.30pm on NITV, SBS and SBS On Demand.
Award-winning coming-of-age film Sweet As airs Thursday 23 January at 8.30pm on NITV.
The 2025 January 26 edition of Sounds of Solidarity premieres at 2.30pm on NITV.
Watch NITV News: Day 26 on Sunday January 26 from 5.30pm on NITV and SBS.
Programming across the network from Sunday 19 to 26 January champions First Nations voices and Blak excellence.

National Indigenous Television (NITV) and the wider SBS network invite all Australians to deepen their understanding of January 26 through a curated week of First Nations programming and coverage exploring the history, strength and survival of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. From Sunday 19 to Sunday 26 January, feature content includes powerful documentary One Mind One Heart,Jub Clerc’s award-winning film Sweet As , and special updates from NITV News.

Tanya Denning-Orman, a proud Birri and Guugu Yimidhirr woman and SBS Director of Indigenous Content, said: “January 26 is a moment that connects the past to the present as Australians increasingly reflect on the history and complexity of this date for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and contemporary Australia.

“Through our distinctive programming and coverage across NITV and the entire SBS network we’re proud to be presenting unapologetically Blak perspectives, showcasing stories of strength and survival, and providing an opportunity for all Australians to connect with the world’s oldest living continuous culture.

“This year we’re proud to share the feature length documentary One Mind One Heart andaward-winning film Sweet As, celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-created music with a new edition of Sounds of Solidarity, and much more. We encourage all Australians to join us throughout the week.”

Content kicks off on Sunday 19 January with One Mind One Heart premiering on NITV and SBS to trace the historical journey of the Yirrkala Bark Petitions, pivotal in the recognition of Aboriginal rights in Australia. Intertwining the 1963 petition’s inception with footage interviews from strong and passionate Yolŋu woman, Yananymul Mununggurr, and others, the documentary provides a detailed perspective on the ongoing quest for Indigenous rights in Australia.

The week continues with Sweet As, an uplifting coming-of-age road trip movie about a 15-year-old girl (Shantae Barnes Cowan) who undertakes a transformative bus trip to the Pilbara, WA. On the trail, she learns about fun, friendship and first crushes, as well as the forces of ‘reality’ that puncture the bubble of youth. Sweet As airs on NITV on Thursday 23 January at 8.30pm and on SBS World Movies on Sunday January 26 at 8.30pm. It will also be available to stream on SBS On Demand.

On Sunday January 26, the strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, stories and histories will be given prominence across NITV, beginning with Bamay at 5am. The morning will focus on cultures and ceremonies, with the WugulOra Morning Ceremony premiering at 7.30am. WugulOra means “One Mob” in the Gadigal language and is a celebration of the culture of the Gadigal peoples of the Eora Nation, told through dance, song and storytelling. WugulOra provides a reflective start to January 26, serving as a reminder that Aboriginal people are caretakers of the world’s oldest continuous living culture and the foundation of Australia’s story.

Other programs in the morning include the cultural dance ceremony buŋgul from Garma Festival 2024 and DanceRites 2024, a showcase of Indigenous dance traditions filmed on Gadigal Land*.*

The 2024 Elder in Residence Oration from Widjabul Wia-bal woman from the Bundjalung Nation and SBS Elder in Residence, Rhoda Roberts AO, delivered earlier this year will again air at 10.55am. In this year’s oration, Roberts is joined by renowned Wiradjuri journalist Stan Grant.

Sounds of Solidarity premieres at 2.20pm and is hosted by Nooky, Naomi Wenitong and Megan Waters. Featuring the best of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music, this three-hour program, filmed on Larrakia Country in the Northern Territory, celebrates the powerful and enduring legacy of First Nations music and cultures.

Also on January 26, NITV News coverage and updates across broadcast and digital platforms will provide ongoing reporting and insights into the day’s events from every state and territory. The coverage will be led by NITV News presenter and NITV Head of Indigenous News and Current Affairs**, Natalie Ahmat,** a proud Mudburra and Wagadagum woman.

Two-minute bulletins will air regularly in the afternoon, culminating in a news program, Day 26 – NITV News , premiering at 5.30pm and simulcast on SBS. The program will look at how communities across the country are marking the day.

SBS On Demand will feature a curated Always Was, Always Will Be collection of First Nations films and documentaries, and the NITV Muy Ngulayg First Nations content hub on SBS On Demand, continues to be a dedicated space bringing together all of NITV and SBS’s First Nations content, for all Australians to learn, be entertained and inspired by.

SBS Food will air a selection of programs throughout the day, celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures through cuisine with episodes of The Cook Up with Adam Liaw and Wild Kitchen with Clayton Donovan. At 10.10pm,SBS VICELAND will air First Nations standup comedy program Deadly Funny .

In addition to Sweet As, SBS World Movies will air Rabbit Proof Fence on Monday 20 January at 6pm and The Furnace on Tuesday 21 January at 7.30pm.

SBS Audio will be covering January 26 in more than 60 languages, providing multi-platform stories and explainers that explore diverse perspectives about this day, as well as deepening understanding and connections with First Nations peoples among multicultural communities.

SBS Learn will showcase a range of Always Was, Always Will Be teacher resources exploring the histories, languages and cultures of Australia’s First Peoples. This includes The First Inventors resource which is based on the documentary of the same name and delves into the extraordinary science and inventions behind the world’s oldest living culture, and Understanding the Frontier Wars resource, which is based on the award-winning documentary series The Australian Wars. Teachers can use the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocol Guide for teachers to create a culturally enriching learning environment for the school community to engage respectfully with First Nations peoples and perspectives. This Protocols guide is authored by Wonnarua and Kunja woman, Shiralee Lawson, and Wiradjuri woman, Jarin Baigent.

TV.Cynic · December 12, 2024, 6:24am

Troy Kingi’s Desert Hikoi- Final Episode

Sunday, 22 December at 10.10pm

On the homestretch of finishing their album, Troy and the band are asked to feature on an album alongside some of the greatest names in desert rock.

Music season

Chuck Berry
Sunday, 22 December at 8.30pm
In this feature length documentary, the absolute instigator of rock ‘n’ roll, Chuck Berry, is truly
revealed, with unprecedented exclusive access. Despite his iconic status, and reverence for his
talent by rock’s heroes John Lennon, Keith Richards, Steven Van Zandt, Joe Perry, Nils Lofgren and
Alice Cooper, all featured, Chuck Berry was a family man. He was a prolific craftsman of word and
chords; this documentary celebrates his undisputed combination of talent and charisma.

Singing Country: Deadly Nannas
Monday, 23 December at 8.30pm
Karla Grant presents Singing Country. This episode, she talks with The Deadly Nannas Choir, who are
dedicated to reviving the Ngarrundjeri language. Growing up without their language they formed to
reclaim their culture through song.

Nat King Cole: Growing Afraid Of The Dark
Monday, 23 December at 9.00pm
Featuring never-before-seen archival footage, this documentary reveals Nat King Cole’s feelings
behind his ultimate calling as a “beacon of hope” to the oppressed, taken from his private journals
and exclusive interviews.

Marvin Gaye: What’s Going On?
Monday, 24 December at 10.40pm
Marvin Gaye is one of the great and enduring figures of American music. His innovative mix of
gospel, R&B, soul and jazz made him a huge and glamorous performing star. Yet his life story is
also one of personal torment and bittersweet success – this biopic shows both the highs and lows of
Marvin’s life.

Midnight Oil 1984
Saturday, 28 December at 10.45pm
Thirty years in the making and featuring never-seen-before seen footage of the band on and off the
stage, Midnight Oil 1984 is the untold story of the year Australia’s most iconic rock band inspired
the nation to believe in the power of music to change the world.

Piri’s Tiki Tour - Season 5

Tuesday, 24 December at 7.30pm

Tuhua Island
Piri’s on Tuhua Island hosted by brothers Patukino and Tiraariki Wiiliams. He dives with Patukino and fishes with Tiraariki.

Waihau Bay
Piri’s in Waihau Bay, fishing off the rocks with Bennie Haerewa. Then he goes sky high in a chopper to go deer spotting.

The Walkers

Thursday, 26 December at 8.30pm

Episode Three:
While Stan’s life may seem like one big party, the daily grind of his mahi (work) usually means days and weeks away from his whānau (family), especially the love of his life, Lou.

Episode Four:
On a journey of reconnection, Stan takes a trip to Te Tairāwhiti in an effort to discover the
origins of the Walker family name.

The Other Side - Season 9

Saturday, 28 December at 7:00 pm

Jeff, Shanley and Lee are paranormal investigators with a twist – rooted in respect and Indigenous traditions, they bring healing to lost spirits and answers to those who live with them. But as they explore, they’re forever changed by the powerful stories that emerge.

Season Nine, Episode One:
Three Valley Gap is a ghost town made up of abandoned buildings and artifacts of the past. But within these walls also lurk strange paranormal occurrences and tortured spirits.

TV.Cynic · December 19, 2024, 6:28am

NITV News 2024 in Review

Tuesday, 31 December at 5.40pm on NITV

As we celebrate blak excellence in sports, entertainment and the arts, look back on some of the big stories, major issues and community events covered on NITV News and NITV Digital throughout 2024. This news in review special will be hosted by Natalie Ahmat and John Paul Janke and include crosses to NITV journalists around the country.

Piri’s Tiki Tour - Season 5

Tuesday, 31 December at 7.30pm

Final episodes

Episode Nine: Fiordland
In Fiordland, Piri joins a commercial crayfish boat with Skipper Storm Waldrop (Ngati Mamoe) & deckhand Dan Wright (Ngai Tahu). Here they’ll target tuna, then dive for paua and kina in this untouched paradise.

Episode Ten: Kapiti
On the Kapiti Coast, Piri is hosted by local teacher and keen fisherman Jason Huria, They fish snapper and tarakihi off Kapiti Island.

The Walkers

Thursday, 2 January at 8.30pm

Final episodes

Episode Five:
Stan’s hitting the road for an intimate tour that delves deeper into his newly released book. Sharing deeply personal conversations, he delves into some of the most difficult details shared in the book.

Episode Six:
After a challenging year for the Walker whānau (family) and the disappointment of Stan being initially refused entry into Melbourne by the Victorian government, he is finally heading off to Australia.

Music season

Nothing Compares: Sinead O’Connor

Sunday, 29 December at 8.30pm
Nothing Compares charts Sinead O’Connor’s stunning rise to worldwide fame and examines how she used
her voice at the height of her stardom, before her iconoclastic personality led to her exile from
the pop mainstream.

Singing Country: Loren Ryan

Monday, 30 December at 8.30pm
Karla Grant presents Singing Country. This episode, she talks with proud Gamilaraay woman Loren
Ryan, who is a musician, Aboriginal culture teacher, and now a trainee reporter with ABC New
England North West.

Dolly Parton: Still Rockin’

Monday, 30 December at 9.05pm Premiere
A documentary highlighting Dolly Parton and her impact on the music industry with clips and
interviews from throughout her time in the limelight.

Mama Africa

Monday, 30 December at 10.00pm
Mama Africa is the biography of Miriam Makeba, South African singer and anti- apartheid activist,
the voice and the hope of Africa. Miriam Makeba was the first African musician to become a true
international star; her music influenced artists across the globe but always remained true to her
South African roots with its message against racism and poverty.

Bob Marley & The Wailers: Capitol Session

Saturday, 4 January at 10.15pm Premiere
In October 1973 Bob Marley and The Wailers gave an intimate performance at Capitol Studios.
Recording twelve classic songs, from the sidelines, producer Denny Cordell captured the event on
camera.

NYE Movie Marathon

Hairspray
Tuesday, 31 December at 8.30pm
It’s Baltimore, 1962, and a rebellious teenager with the biggest bouffant on the block attempts to win the coveted “Miss Auto Show” crown as she fights against racial discrimination in this film created and directed by John Waters.

Little Shop Of Horrors
Tuesday, 31 December at 10.05pm
A nerdy florist finds his chance for success and romance with the help of a giant man-eating plant who demands to be fed. Starring Rick Moranis, Steve Martin and Miriam Margolyes.

Purple Rain
Tuesday, 31 December at 11.55pm
Rock star Prince makes his spectacular feature film debut in this highly autobiographical blockbuster that won both an Oscar and a Grammy award. Headstrong, vulnerable young musician The Kid (Prince) struggles with his own inner demons and with his alcoholic father. But his life infects his music, fuelling a sound that transforms the struggling, young rocker into a star.

TV.Cynic · December 26, 2024, 3:45am

The Lake Winnipeg Project

Tuesday, 7 January at 7.30pm

The Lake Winnipeg Project is a four-part documentary series that calls attention to stories of ingenuity and resilience in four diverse communities surrounding Lake Winnipeg, at a time when many external forces are imposing change. Anishinaabe/Cree director Kevin Settee takes an “own-voices” approach to storytelling that gives Lake Winnipeg communities and peoples the opportunity to tell their own stories and speak to the challenges and successes they experience.

Episode One: Matheson Island
We share the story of the Whiteways of Matheson Island, their devotion to a fishing lifestyle and the various challenges they experience, including issues related to health, government policy and the threatened future of the fishing industry.

Episode Two: Poplar River
This short film explores Poplar River First Nation’s intergenerational responsibility of protecting the lands and waters in their territory for generations to come.

The Walkers - Season 2

Thursday, 9 January at 8.30pm

In the second season of this observational documentary series, Stan Walker and his whānau (family) navigate new challenges and family dynamics. Stan’s life is as busy as ever; we follow Stan and Lou as they adjust to life as a married couple, and as Stan releases his new te reo Māori album, with the added challenges of his parents preparing for a big move.

Episode One:
Adding husband and father to his long list of credentials, Stan Walker and his whānau are back. This season we follow Stan and Lou as they take on all that comes with married life, while April and Ross prepare for their move back to Aotearoa.

Episode Two:
After months of not performing, Stan’s feeling a bit rusty as he rehearses for the Aotearoa Music Awards. While he puts his voice through its paces, on the other side of the ditch Mary Grace is coming to terms with the idea of life in Melbourne without her parents.

Music season

Amazing Grace

Sunday, 5 January at 8.30pm
In 1972, Aretha Franklin, the undisputed Queen of Soul, recorded an album of gospel music in Los Angeles, Amazing Grace. This film follows the inspirational sessions that made this iconic album.

Singing Country: Jack Bani

Monday, 6 January at 8.30pm
Karla Grant presents Singing Country. Gifted with an amazing voice and guided by his strong connection to culture, Jack Bani’s music has a unique quality that is sure to make himself, his family and the people of the Torres Strait proud.

Diana Ross: Supreme Sensation

Monday, 6 January at 9.05pm Premiere
Big hair, sequins, scandals and sensational performances. From being the queen of Motown to taking on the world stage, this ‘supreme’ diva has sold over 100 million records worldwide. Her career has spanned decades, attracting generation after generation of loyal fans. It can only be the legendary, the iconic - Diana Ross.

Johnny Cash: Redemption Of An American Idol

Monday, 6 January at 9.55pm
From his hardscrabble Arkansas upbringing to his musical success, Johnny Cash was unshakeable in his devotion. This moving documentary tells the story of a man who never lost sight of the light.

Nina Simone: Live At Montreux

Saturday, 11 January at 10.35pm
A powerful performance from one of the greatest jazz singers of all time. Filmed live in 1976, Nina Simone sings a selection of great songs including Little Girl Blue and Star.

TV.Cynic · January 2, 2025, 1:15am

The Lake Winnipeg Project - Final Episodes

Tuesday, 14 January at 7.30pm

Episode Three: Camp Morningstar
This film shares the story of Camp Morningstar, a sacred camp established on the east side of Lake Winnipeg that was erected in response to the proposal of a silica sand mine project.

Episode Four: Fisher River
Fisher River narrows in on stories of generosity and perseverance by the people and community of Fisher River Cree Nation, as well as their responses to challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Walkers - Season 2 - Final Episodes

Thursday, 16 January at 8.30pm

Season Two, Episode Three:
It’s an emotional rollercoaster for Stan as he’s confronted with the ghosts of his past while filming the music video for his powerful single ‘Human’.

Episode Four:
After weeks of preparation, it’s lights, camera, action as Stan gets ready to hit the stage for the Aotearoa Music Awards.

Episode Five:
Stan and Lou make the most of some downtime and escape to the tropical waters and white sandy beaches of Rarotonga for a well-deserved babymoon.

Episode Six:
Feeling the pressure to up the ante after his 2021 performance, Stan is bringing in the big guns as he prepares for one of the biggest events on the summer music calendar, One Love.

Music season

Rebel Country

Sunday, 12 January at 8.30pm Premiere

Rebel Country is a feature-length documentary film that explores and celebrates how country music is undergoing a revolution. America is changing, the world is changing, and there is a new breed of boundary-pushing rebels challenging the rules of the game, asking questions that many feared to ask: What does and does not constitute country? Who does country music speak to? Does it really represent a modern multicultural America? And while all other musical genres have moved with the times, why has country music often remained so resistant to change?

Singing Country: Stiff Gins

Monday, 13 January at 8.30pm

Karla Grant presents Singing Country. Stiff Gins, Nardi Simpson and Kaleena Briggs, are one of Australia’s most loved Indigenous music acts. Combining humour and stunning harmonies to transport you to a world of joy, spirit and song.

Ella Fitzgerald: Just One of Those Thigns

Monday, 13 January at 9.00pm

Starting from a 1934 talent contest at the Apollo theatre in Harlem, this film follows Ella Fitzgerald’s extraordinary journey across five decades as she reflects the passions and troubles of the times in her music and life.

Count Basie: Through His Own Eyes

Monday, 13 January at 10.35pm

This revealing biography, told in Count Basie’s own words, uncovers for the first time the private passions and ambitions that inspired the world-famous bandleader and pianist.

Ray Charles at the Salle Pleyel

Saturday, 18 January at 10.30pm

A Ray Charles special with a selection of highlights from his concert at Salle Pleyel in early October 1968.

TV.Cynic · January 9, 2025, 5:11am

One Mind One Heart

Premiere NITV Commission Sunday, 19 January at 8.30pm on NITV and SBS

In this feature-length documentary, a historic political Yirrkala bark petition is discovered and makes its way home to Yolŋu country, evoking the spirit of decades of activism for change. The repatriation provides the opportunity to track the long political campaign – through petition, song, dance, campaigning – to keep culture strong and to have a voice for Country.

One Mind One Heart is from writer/director Larissa Behrendt (The First Inventors) and producer Michaela Perske (Larapinta).

One Mind One Heart will be available to stream free on the Muy Ngulayg Hub on SBS On Demand.

Sweet As

Channel Premiere

Thursday, 23 January at 8.30pm

The Breakfast Club meets the outback in this uplifting coming-of-age road trip movie by Nyul Nyul / Yawuru director Jub Clerc. With problems on the home front, 15-year-old Murra (Shantae Barnes-Cowan) is on the verge of lashing out. That is, until her policeman uncle (Mark Coles Smith) thwarts her self-destructive behaviour with a lifeline: a “photo-safari for at-risk kids”.

Murra isn’t entirely convinced, but she soon joins cantankerous Kylie, uptight Sean, happy-go-lucky Elvis, and camp counsellors Fernando (Carlos Sanson Jr) and Michelle (Tasma Walton) on a transformative bus trip to the Pilbara. On the trail, the teens learn about fun, friendship and first crushes, as well as the forces of ‘reality’ that puncture the bubble of youth.

Sweet As will be available to stream free on the Muy Ngulayg Hub on SBS On Demand.

TV.Cynic · January 16, 2025, 6:51am

January 26 Collection

WugulOra

Sunday, 26 January at 7.30am Live Premiere

WugulOra means “One Mob” in the local Gadigal language and is a celebration of the culture of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, told through dance, song, and storytelling. Featuring a smoking ceremony performed over countless generations, along with an opportunity to hear from community leaders, it is a chance to offer cleansing and healing for new beginnings and fresh inspiration for our future. Filmed live at Barangaroo Reserve, Sydney.

Sounds of Solidarity – January 26th

Sunday, 26 January at 2.30pm Premiere

Hosted by Nooky, Naomi Wenitong and Megan Waters, and featuring the best of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music, this three-hour program, filmed on Larrakia Country in the Northern Territory, celebrates the powerful and enduring legacy of First Nations music and cultures.

NITV News Special

Sunday, 26 January at 5.30pm SBS Simulcast

NITV News provides ongoing reporting and insights into the day’s events from every state and territory. The January 26 coverage will be led by NITV News presenter and NITV Head of Indigenous News and Current Affairs, Natalie Ahmat, a proud Mudburra and Wagadagum woman, supported by NITV journalists across the country.

Malcolm X: Justice By Any Means

Monday, 27 January at 9.00pm

As the USA is trying to heal the wounds of a year of racial violence, an over 50-year-old cold case suddenly resurfaces. A short time after a police officer’s deathbed letter revealed the FBI’s involvement in the murder of Malcolm X, and following a 22-month investigation conducted by the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, two of the men convicted for the killing are exonerated.

Based on recently declassified FBI documents, accounts from people close to Malcolm X, and other important witnesses, this film reveals this radical leader’s exceptional path. And with it, the chain of events leading to his certain death are deciphered.

The Green Veil

Thursday, 30 January at 8.30pm

In 1956, Federal Agent Gordon Rogers investigates the reported alien abduction of a Native American family living in rural Connecticut. Meanwhile, he welcomes an adopted daughter to the family, but his wife becomes increasingly suspicious of his work on the abduction case and begins to look into their disappearance herself.

Starring John Leguizamo (Romeo & Juliet, John Wick, Moulin Rouge), Hani Furstenberg (American Gods), Irene Bedard (Pocahontas, Avatar: The Last Airbender) and Steven Boyer (Hustlers, Chicago Fire).

Episode One:
Federal Agent Gordon Rodgers kidnaps Isabella Sutton - daughter of Native Americans Glennie and Gilberto Sutton - from their farmhouse in broad daylight. He delivers her to an orphanage and adopts another girl on the spot: Abigail. Gordon and his wife Mabel try fostering a family dynamic with Abigail at home, but Gordon’s secretive work and Mabel’s concern about local “alien abductions” strain the family bonding.

Episode Two:
Mabel Rogers’ visit to the abduction site grows her curiosity about the case, but her absence at home draws Gordon’s ire. To diffuse the tension, Gordon plans an outing and brings Mabel and Abigail to the site of the alien abduction.

TV.Cynic · January 23, 2025, 8:01am

After Sherman

Sunday, 2 February at 8.40pm

Beautifully layered and expressionistic, After Sherman is a story about inheritance and the tension that defines American history, in particular Black history. Filmmaker Jon-Sesrie Goff follows his father, a minister, in the aftermath of a mass shooting at his church in Charleston, South Carolina. In doing so, he seeks to understand how communities of descendants of enslaved Africans use their unique faith as a form of survival, as they continue to fight for America to live up to its many unfulfilled promises to Black Americans.

Airing to commemorate Justice Month in the USA.

Karla Grant Presents: Lousy Little Sixpence

Monday, 3 February at 8.30pm

In Australia in 1909, in the state of New South Wales, the Aborigines Protection Board planned to break up Aboriginal communities by forcibly removing their children and hiring them out as servants to white employers.

The title of this powerful documentary comes from the wages that were to be paid to the children. Many never saw that “lousy little sixpence”. In the mid-1930s, Aboriginal peoples began to organise, and to fight, the Aborigines Protection Board. Through old newsreels, archive film, photographs and interviews with Elders, the film weaves a moving account of a hidden history, the early struggle for Aboriginal land rights and self-determination.

Emmett Till: White Lies, Black Death

Monday, 3 February at 9.30pm

On August 28, 1955, Emmett Till, a 14-year-old Black boy, was kidnapped and brutally murdered by J.W. Milam and Roy Bryant on the banks of the Tallahatchie River in the USA. The two men would be tried and found not guilty by an all-white jury. They would later confess to the murder and their story would be published in Look magazine. Over the next 60 years, this story would grab hold of public belief and become the dominant narrative. Except, it was a lie… a conspiracy to cover-up what really happened.

Pulitzer-finalist and investigative reporter Jerry Mitchell travels deep into the Delta of Mississippi and across the country to uncover the truth. Emmett Till: White Lies, Black Death peels back the layers of the conspiracy with exclusive interviews and rarely seen content to recreate the actual narrative timeline of the death that would launch the modern Civil Rights Movement.

Our Law (Series 2)

Will be repeated from Sunday, 2 February at 7.30pm on NITV

Double episodes.

TV.Cynic · January 30, 2025, 6:56am

The Evers

Sunday, 9 February at 8.40pm

On June 12, 1963, an assassin’s bullet ended the life of Medgar Evers, the Field Secretary of the NAACP in Mississippi. From Emmy-winning director of The Uncomfortable Truth Loki Mulholland comes the incredible true story of one family’s unbreakable love and tragic sacrifice in the name of freedom for everyone. The Evers is a powerful testament of love, faith and family in the quest for a better world.

Airing to commemorate Black History Month in the USA.

Karla Grant Presents: Vote Yes For Aborigines NITV Production

Monday, 10 February at 8.30pm

This documentary reflects on the 1967 Referendum, when over 90 % of Australian voters created political history by saying YES to change the Constitution and allow Aboriginal peoples to be acknowledged as citizens in their own country. It tells the remarkable story of the fight for citizenship rights and questions its contemporary relevance.

After the Apology

Monday, 10 February at 9.30pm

Directed by Larissa Behrendt AO (One Mind One Heart and You Can Go Now) four Aboriginal grandmothers each face their own battle to challenge government policies to bring their grandkids home. Their grassroots actions spearhead a national conversation to curb the skyrocketing rates of child removal.

Airing to commemorate National Sorry Day on February 13.

TV.Cynic · February 6, 2025, 6:02am

In The Zone

Sunday, 16 February at 8.40pm

As a Black man growing up in westside Chicago, Terrance Wallace has lived and breathed racial inequalities and divisions since birth. He has dedicated his life to changing the narrative - starting at the grassroots.

For him, the answers lie with young people. His work aims to ensure that youth of all ethnicities are integrated and educated about each other. Every day he fights for young men and women of colour to have equal access to quality learning and support, and a seat at the tables of power. He first pioneered a residential scheme in New Zealand, where its success saw teens from disadvantaged backgrounds graduating as doctors, lawyers, and community leaders. Now, he is bringing it home to Chicago. This is his extraordinary story.

Airing to commemorate Black History Month in the USA.

Warrior Spirit

Monday, 17 February at 9.30pm

A simple window washer and fisherman, Will George’s life transforms when Tsleil-Waututh Elders choose him to protect his Nation’s lands and waters against the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion (TMX).

Will challenges leaders like Justin Trudeau, striving to halt the threat Canada imposes on stolen land. As pipeline construction advances and protests escalate, Will intensifies his efforts and ultimately faces criminal charges. Despite courtroom racism, he advocates for his people and territory, and urges people to stand up against injustice and criminalisation of Indigenous peoples for protecting lands and waters.

JohnsonTV · February 11, 2025, 9:38pm

TV.Cynic · February 13, 2025, 6:51am