I can’t think of another TV show that looks or sounds like Champion. You might hear someone kickin’ a 16 on Top Boy. Feel the instant island warmth of likkle patois in the dialogue of a Small Axe special. Or find Nicole Lecky’s Mood and appreciate how financial insecurity and fear of failure are tightly bound up for aspiring musicians. How race and gender influence their chances of success.

But to take us into the heart of Lewisham borough (my home) and examine sibling rivalry in the music business over eight episodes through the lens of a fragmented British Caribbean family… That feels fresh, immersive and long overdue.

I am still stunned that there won’t be a second season, particularly after leaving us on a major cliffhanger after a shocking betrayal. Let’s rewind and consider what made it so absorbing from all angles.

Read more on my Substack, Bluejeans & Moonbeams.

Also in this issue: listen to a radio documentary about genius Charles Stepney, Paul Mescal on the pull in Islington, sports science is obsessed with men, Samantha Morton is an exemplary human being, subcultures aren’t what they used to be, time to stop being extremely online, Avril Lavigne is dead (maybe) and can I play you some music?