A long-lost episode of The Morecambe and Wise Show, unseen for decades and thought to be lost forever, is set to air on the BBC. The episode, from the first series of the iconic comedy duo's BBC show, will be broadcast on BBC Four and BBC iPlayer on May 14.
Discovery and Broadcast Details
The missing episode was discovered by the charitable trust Film Is Fabulous! in the estate of a former television industry professional and has been returned to the BBC. Its broadcast coincides with what would have been Eric Morecambe's 100th birthday. Alongside the episode, the BBC will also air The Perfect Morecambe and Wise to mark the occasion.
The episode is the third instalment from Morecambe and Wise's first series, after they returned to the BBC following a stint with commercial television. It includes sketches written by Sid Green and Dick Hills, featuring Ann Hamilton as Pauline in a nudist colony sketch and Jenny Lee-Wright as Eric's niece, a balloon dancer. Viewers will also enjoy a musical performance by The Paper Dolls, popular in the 1960s.
Reactions from the Family and Archives Director
Noreen Adams, Director of BBC Archives, expressed excitement: "Morecambe and Wise are one of the UK's most loved comedy duos. Thanks to Film Is Fabulous! We're delighted to share this comedy gold that we thought was lost forever with viewers across the UK."
Eric Morecambe's daughter, Gail, said: "What a lovely surprise this is, and I'm really looking forward to seeing it on a screen once again after so many years. It's excellent to hear that skilled people are actively going through the Archives and discovering 'lost' programmes. I am especially thrilled that it coincides with my father's centenary year."
His son, Gary Morecambe, added: "I'm so thrilled and surprised by the discovery of a Morecambe and Wise show that hasn't been seen since 1968. Hats off to Professor Justin Smith and his team, whose dedication and hard work brought this gem back to us. I'm very excited about seeing it for the first time since I was twelve years of age."
The long-lost episode of The Morecambe and Wise Show will be available on BBC Four and BBC iPlayer from May 14.
