Penny-Saving Tips, Political Drama and The Piano: The Best of Tonight’s TV

A money-saving show, an Oscar-winning film and a drama that just keeps getting better: Tuesday night TV is truly tantalising.

A SuperScrimpers’ Merry Christmas – Channel 4 (8.00pm)

Finance guru Mrs Moneypenny shows how to have a frugal but fun Christmas with crackers, tree decorations and cider. Harry Wallop also warns about the dangers of the festive season including  e-cards and counterfeit products.

MasterChef – BBC Two (8.00pm)

The competition is almost at its climax as the first two semi-finalists have to do a shift at a Michelin-starred restaurant before preparing a main course and dessert for the judges. Only one will make it through to the final.

New Girl – RTÉ Two (8.30pm)

On tonight’s episode of the comedy, Jess fills in for Cece after a wild night out while the boys debate about what defines male friendship after Schmidt buys Nick a cookie. Zooey Deschanel and Jake Johnson star.

Homeland – RTÉ Two (9.00pm)

This week in the thrilling drama Saul catches up with an old friend, Dana and Finn accept their differences, and Brody’s political relationship with Vice President Walden is put to the test.

The Piano – Film4 (10.50pm)

In this period drama a mute Scottish widow is caught up in a loveless marriage with only her piano as a means of expression. When her husband sells the instrument, she ends up growing close to the man who has bought it.