Friday's Must-Watch: George Clooney Stars as Jay Kelly, Premiere of Spartacus: House Of Ashur and More

Each day, our What to Watch roundup highlights new and returning English-language shows and select films across broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms, organized by airtime and alphabetically.

This Friday, viewers can enjoy George Clooney and Adam Sandler in "Jay Kelly", catch the premiere of the "Spartacus" sequel series, and watch the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony.

Friday, December 5, 2025 Showtimes

The Creep Tapes AMC+, Shudder

Ava's attempt to produce a scandalous documentary is derailed by her uncomfortable subject.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw Disney+ (Movie Premiere)

Greg faces increasing challenges after a string of mishaps, prompting his dad to send him to wilderness camp in an effort to toughen him up.

The Family McMullen HBO Max

The sequel to The Brothers McMullen follows Barry McMullen and his grown children, along with his brother Patrick and widowed sister-in-law Molly, as they navigate unexpected romantic complications.

The First Snow of Fraggle Rock Holiday Special

As the Fraggles anticipate the season's first snow, a single flake and Gobos unfinished holiday song throw traditions into disarray.

Jay Kelly Netflix (Movie Premiere)

George Clooney portrays a movie star confronting his past on a European journey alongside his loyal manager, played by Adam Sandler. A companion documentary, "The Making of Jay Kelly", is also available.

Jingle Bell Wedding The Roku Channel (Movie Premiere)

Jack, his daughter Grace, and fiance Jessica plan a festive holiday in Lakeside in this sequel to Jingle Bell Love.

The Last Frontier Season 1 Finale

Sidney and Havlock risk everything to secure the archive, while Frank embarks on a daring mission to save a life.

The New Yorker at 100 Documentary

This documentary explores the century-long history of the magazine, highlighting its influential journalism, fiction, and iconic cartoons.

Owning Manhattan Netflix (Season 2 Premiere)

Ryan Serhant abandons a cautious approach in favor of bold moves to expand his real estate empire, while Carol faces shocking discoveries, and Mr. Diabat embraces life fully in Sin City.

Transformers: EarthSpark Paramount+ (Series Finale)

Robby faces accusations of misusing his abilities as the Autobots and Maltos search Cybertron for missing allies.

Jingle All the Way to Love Lifetime (Movie Premiere)

A lawyer wins a contest to reconnect with the mysterious stranger who once gave her a lucky sleigh bell.

National Christmas Tree Lighting Great American Family

Hosted by Gabby Barrett and Matthew West from The White House, with performances by Jillian Cardarelli, Alana Springsteen, The Beach Boys, Brett Young, and others.

Power Book IV: Force

Diamond and Jenard bond over a shared adversary, while Tommy ties up lingering loose ends.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer NBC

This animated classic tells the story of a deer whose bright nose makes him a target of ridicule, but ultimately defines his Christmas spirit.

Sheriff Country

While investigating a brutal assault at Edgewater High, Sheriff Fox uncovers a web of secrets, lies, and abuse of power.

Twelve Dates 'Til Christmas Hallmark Channel (Two Episodes)

A textile designer joins a holiday matchmaking program with help from friends, while her divorced parents navigate new relationships.

Fire Country

Sharon faces her estranged mother, Ruby, whose sudden arrival stirs painful family memories, while Bode and Jake respond to a call from a troubled teen.

Spartacus: House of Ashur Starz (Series Premiere, Two Episodes)

This spin-off imagines Ashur surviving and being rewarded by the Romans with the gladiator school where he once suffered, with Nick E. Tarabay reprising his role.

Happy's Place NBC Special

After noticing Isabella misses school, Bobbie enrolls them in an online course, unaware of how seriously Isabella will take it.

A Christmas Cookbook 10:00 PM ET

A newly single woman joins a festive cooking club and finds romance with its warm-hearted founder.

Boston Blue

Lenas pursuit of justice forces Danny into an unexpected role, while Sean and Jonah uncover more than anticipated during a routine case.

Everything on the Menu USA Network (Season 1 Finale)

Braun vacations in Tampa, where culinary challenges put his limits to the test.

Analysis: A Busy Friday for TV Viewers

This Friday promises an eclectic mix of programming across various streaming and broadcast platforms, with a range of genres catering to different tastes. From the intriguing drama of Jay Kelly to the holiday cheer in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, the day’s lineup ensures there’s something for everyone. Notably, Jay Kelly brings together George Clooney and Adam Sandler in a reflective drama, showcasing the power of nostalgia and self-discovery. Meanwhile, the Spartacus sequel taps into a successful franchise with a darker, more personal storyline, capturing the attention of fans of historical drama.

Streaming services continue to dominate with a varied slate of offerings. The Creep Tapes on AMC+ and Shudder delves into the world of documentary filmmaking gone awry, while Ava’s struggle to manage her controversial subject seems poised to add tension and dark humor. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Disney+ offers the family-friendly Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw, providing a mix of slapstick humor and coming-of-age lessons.

For those looking for something more festive, the National Christmas Tree Lighting broadcast is a quintessential holiday event, blending traditional performances with the seasonal spirit. It’s clear that this Friday offers a broad selection of entertainment, whether you’re in the mood for a Christmas classic, an intense drama, or lighthearted family fun.

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• What To Watch Friday: George Clooney Is Jay Kelly, Spartacus: House Of Ashur Premiere And More