What to watch tonight: TV choices - 29 October

The Escape Artist

9pm, BBC1

In this three-part thriller by Spooks creator David Wolstencroft, David Tennant plays Will Burton, a hot-shot criminal defence barrister who has never lost a case. “Everyone deserves a defence,” he tells a rival QC played by Sophie Okonedo, who accuses him of glory-seeking. However, his next case comes back to bite him when he agrees to defend a young man (a chillingly arrogant Toby Kebbell) accused of the sadistic murder of a young woman.

Disowned & Disabled

9pm & 2.30am, BBC4

Before the Second World War, orphaned or unwanted children were locked up in regimented Victorian institutions. This follows the emergence of a more humane care system, inspired by the newly minted “attachment theory”.

American Horror Story: Coven

10pm, Fox

Set in a New Orleans school where young witches are taught how to survive in the modern world, Ryan Murphy’s horror anthology returns with more sex-laced sadism. Kathy Bates and Taissa Farmiga star.

Later Live – With Jools Holland

10pm, BBC2

Re-formed Graham Parker & the Rumour are joined by US band The National and indie trio London Grammar.

Imagine – Jimi Hendrix: Hear My Train A Comin’

10.35pm, BBC 1

Unseen footage and home movies decorate Bob Smeaton’s film about arguably the most influential guitarist of rock. His band-mates Noel Redding and Mitch Mitchell contribute.