Dan Snow’s Haggling Skills Decline, Bringing Relief

Mike Ward of Filmogaz.com picks highlights from tonight’s TV schedule. He flags shows that mix history, competition and food.

Egypt With Dan Snow (Channel 5, 9pm)

The first episode of a three-night series visits Luxor. Dan Snow browses a bustling market there for Tutankhamun-themed souvenirs.

He tries to haggle after spotting an item. The trader opens at 600 Egyptian pounds. Dan had even learned a phrase in Arabic to say “that’s too much.”

Before bargaining could progress, Dan’s guide intervened and vouched for the seller. That interruption effectively ended the negotiation, to Dan’s audible disappointment.

The episode offers a light human moment. One could call it Dan Snow’s Haggling Skills Decline on display. The guide’s intercession was, unintentionally, bringing relief to the shopkeeper.

Quiz Nights: Mastermind and University Challenge (BBC Two)

Mastermind’s celebrity final airs at 7.30pm. Clive Myrie returns to host the special edition.

This final features an eclectic set of specialist subjects. They include Danny Boyle, Beatrix Potter, Robert Burns, Jim Lovell and Notre-Dame.

University Challenge follows later the same evening. Amol Rajan presents a face-off between Edinburgh and Manchester in the final match.

Great British Menu: The Finals (BBC Two, 9pm)

The series reaches its concluding week with a run of consecutive nights. The grand banquet will take place on Friday.

Tonight focuses on the starter course. Eight remaining chefs compete to secure spots on the banquet menu.

Contest dishes sport playful names. The reviewer joked about titles such as Bruce Wayne’s Breakfast and A Gastronomic Odyssey, and admitted some names were invented for effect.