What To Watch TV Reviews: Mark Of A Murderer, Rivals, 2.6 Seconds, Percy Jackson and Yellowjackets

Mark Of A Murderer

Monday, 8.30pm, ABC

This excellent four-part docuseries will resonate with Western Australians familiar with Andrew Mallard’s wrongful conviction for the murder of Perth jeweller Pamela Lawrence in 1994.

It was a huge story, playing out over decades, and brought to light by the dogged pursuit for justice by local journalist (now MP) Colleen Egan, who fought for years to prove Mallard’s innocence.

This takes a look back at her investigation, and its intersection with British-born man Simon Rochford, who was charged with the separate murder of local woman Brigitta Dickens at the same time. Those unfamiliar with the story will be astounded at what unfolds.

Rochford was later implicated in Lawrence’s murder, but he may also have been responsible for a series of historic crimes in the UK, committed in the years leading up to ’94 — was he actually a serial killer?

This follows Egan as she forensically examines Rochford’s links to the unsolved murders, thefts and arsons. Her exploration uncovers police failures and gross miscarriages of justice. It’s a chilling watch, gripping from start to finish.

“Every participant in our legal system could learn from this story, as I did (and as I have relived with this amazing series),” Justice of the High Court of Australia James Edelman AC said in a statement.

We couldn’t agree more: this is must-see television.

Rivals

Streaming now on Disney Plus

The second season of this terrifically good fun Jilly Cooper adaptation was split into two, so we’ve had to wait several months to find out Monica Baddingham’s (Claire Rushbrook) fate. Now we know, and my goodness — those opening episodes! Things will only get more explosive as we travel towards the finale on December 2. Don’t miss it.

2.6 Seconds: Death In The Outback

Tuesday, 8.30pm, SBS & NITV

Another investigative doco that needs to be on your radar is this affecting four-parter, which takes an in-depth look at the 2019 fatal police shooting of 19-year-old NT man Kumanjayi Walker. The series uses previously unseen police body camera footage, as well as archival audio and interviews with those who knew Walker. Incredibly moving.

Percy Jackson And The Olympians

Friday, streaming on Disney Plus

Got tweens or teens at home? They’re probably counting down the days until this third season is released. It’s based on the third of Rick Riordan’s books, The Titan’s Curse, and sees Percy (Walker Scobell) and his allies facing even greater threats. If you’ve spied the trailer, you’ll know this season is turning it UP. Start getting excited.

Yellowjackets

Friday, streaming on Paramount Plus

Creators Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson are hoping to stick the landing with this final season, which Paramount is billing as “a savage homecoming”. It sees us nearing the long-awaited rescue of the Yellowjackets, who are doing their best to survive the harsh winter. This will see past and present timelines intersect — here’s hoping it’s a satisfying payoff.