Angel

Angel, Sci-Fi Channel, Tuesday, 8pm

IT’S a shame this spin-off from supernatural hit Buffy The Vampire Slayer was never quite as good as the original. Perhaps it took itself a bit too seriously, but for all its flaws, it still makes for great viewing – if nothing else, just for being able to dip a toe in anything remotely connected to Joss Whedon’s outstanding creation.

David Boreanaz, above, bestrides the screen like a bloodsucking Colossus in this edition, opening in the cosy afterglow of a sexy romp with fellow creature of the night Darla. While she’s all beamy at having seduced the handsome leading man, he’s far from happy. Sadly for the lady who’s just shared his bed, Angel sees their union as a symptom of just how far he’s fallen.

In desperation, he resolves to get his team back together – but will Cordelia, Wesley and Gunn be keen to ally themselves with a vampire they’re not sure they can trust? Charisma Carpenter co-stars.