Top Picks: 'Sacred Journeys' on PBS, 'Jeeves & Wooster Complete Collection' on DVD, and more

CBS's 'Madam Secretary' is cleverly written and brilliantly acted, Jamie Cullum's new album 'Interlude' has an eclectic mix of jazz and pop standards, and more top picks.

Jazzmatazz

British singer/pianist/jazzbo/radio DJ Jamie Cullum is a man in demand. He has a new album, Interlude (out in the US on Jan. 27); hosts a wildly popular BBC radio show; tours constantly; and will be opening for Billy Joel at Madison Square Garden Dec. 18. Interlude is a perfect introduction to Cullum’s prodigious gifts with its eclectic mix of jazz and pop standards. His vocal artistry makes every song sound brand new. 

Security at risk

The PBS series “Journey to Planet Earth” presents Extreme Realities: Severe Weather, Climate Change, and Our National Security. Narrated by Matt Damon and produced by Marilyn and Hal Weiner, it shows how extreme weather events that cripple poor countries with weak infrastructures have a global ripple effect. The documentary explores the crossroads of economics, politics, and the environment, and their cumulative effect on global security. It premières Dec. 15 at 10 p.m.; check local listings. 

Dream secretary

Longing for a prime-time program that is cleverly written and brilliantly acted? Then Madam Secretary is your show. Airing Sunday nights on CBS, it stars the wonderful Téa Leoni as a smart, beautiful, ethical, and super-wily secretary of State. And oh, yes – she’s a compassionate mom and wife, too. Plan some holiday TV-binge watching to catch up on Season 1. See five episodes free of charge, or sign up for CBS All Access at CBS.com. “Madam Secretary” Season 1 resumes Jan. 4.

Comedy duo

British stars Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie brought the P.G. Wodehouse characters Jeeves and Wooster to the small screen in a series that has become a classic adaptation. It ran from 1990 to ’93 and had been nominated for numerous awards by the end of its run. Jeeves & Wooster Complete Collection from Acorn Media is available on DVD in an eight-disc box set.

Search for understanding

Spiritual pilgrimages have been woven into religious practice since the most ancient of days. Beginning Dec. 16, PBS launches a six-part series, Sacred Journeys, narrated by bestselling author Bruce Feiler. From the healing waters of Lourdes, France, to pilgrim treks across Japan, Israel, Saudi Arabia, India, and Nigeria, the series delves into the personal struggles that compel walks of faith. It airs Dec. 16, 23, and 30 at 8 and 9 p.m. Check local listings.