A long-lost episode of The Morecambe And Wise Show, unseen for decades, is set to air on the BBC. The programme, originally broadcast on 16 September 1968, was believed to be permanently lost until its recent rediscovery.
Rediscovery and content
The episode features British actresses Ann Hamilton in a sketch set in a nudist colony, and Jenny Lee-Wright playing Eric Morecambe's niece. The 1960s pop trio The Paper Dolls also deliver a musical performance. This episode was the third in Morecambe and Wise's inaugural BBC series after their return from commercial television.
The rediscovery was made by Film Is Fabulous!, a charitable trust run by film collectors and television enthusiasts, within the estate of a former TV industry professional. The episode has since been returned to the BBC.
Centenary celebration
The broadcast will mark 100 years since the birth of Eric Morecambe, who died in 1984 at age 58. His partner Ernie Wise passed away in 1999. Viewers can watch the episode on BBC Four and BBC iPlayer on 14 May. BBC Four will also air The Perfect Morecambe And Wise to commemorate the occasion.
Family reactions
Morecambe's son, Gary Morecambe, 70, expressed his excitement: "I honestly didn't think there was anything out there left to find, and when something like this comes out of nowhere, it's really quite wonderful." He added that he is looking forward to seeing it for the first time since he was 12.
Morecambe's daughter, Gail Morecambe, 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."
BBC statement
Noreen Adams, director of BBC Archives, commented: "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."
