BBC confirms return of ‘nostalgic’ 80s game shows

BBC will be taking viewers on a trip down memory lane by bringing back some of their most-loved shows.

It seems that Doctor Who has allowed the broadcaster’s executives to borrow his tardis, as they’ve taken a trip back in time and we all get to join them for the ride.

During the Olympics 2024 being hosted in Paris, BBC will focus on bringing us all the action from the sporting event, but for the audiences craving entertainment from outside that realm, BBC Four will be doing things a little differently on Saturday nights.

From July 27, the channel will have a nostalgic feel about it as some of the most popular series from the last five decades will get a bonus airing.

The classical entertainment shows that will be shown at primetime once again include Sir Bruce Forsyth’s Generation Game, and Blankety Blank with episodes presented by Sir Terry Wogan, Les Dawson, and Lily Savage.

Joining the impressive list is Noel’s House Party and Bob’s Full House, with Sir Michael Parkinson’s interviews with Forsyth, Boris Becker and The Corrs, and Mark Lawson Talks to… Terry Wogan, also available for a rewatch.

Episodes will run across three consecutive Saturday nights on BBC Four and iPlayer, and head of channel management Lindsay Currie has expressed her excitement.

‘We are thrilled to bring our viewers on a nostalgic journey through five decades of beloved BBC entertainment. Whilst BBC One is dedicated to the Olympics, BBC Four will offer a treasure trove of classic shows fronted by much-loved presenters,’ she shared.

‘This collection is a testament to the enduring appeal of these iconic programmes, and we know audiences will love revisiting these classics and celebrating the rich heritage of the BBC’s Saturday night entertainment offering.’

Following their announcement, fans have reacted to the news positively, praising BBC for the idea.

‘YES! This is what BBC4 is for! Delve into that BBC entertainment archive,’ Cameron Yarde Jnr encouraged.

Others encouraged the BBC to make it a more permanent change.

‘This would make the BBC license fee definitely worth it,’ said James Cooper on X. Matt Zee Miller added: ‘Turn BBC 4 into BBC gold channel permanently. BBC version of ITV3 be bigger audience share that current BBC 4 offerings weekly.’

However, others criticised the decision and said they instead wanted to see more original programming.

‘Sad to see BBC Four which once commissioned excellent new drama now reduced to this,’ wrote Andrew Anderson.

Drivelcast is particularly excited about BBC’s plans to show the debut episode of Strictly Come Dancing, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in May.

‘This is great news. I’m excited to see the first Strictly, it’ll be fascinating to see how much has changed, and how much hasn’t. And of course, it’ll be wonderful to see Bruce again,’ they wrote.

BBC are also planning a special anniversary show which will celebrate the milestone moment, however, the achievement is currently being overshadowed by the biggest crisis in its 20-year history.

The Season of of Classic Entertainment will begin on BBC Four and iPlayer on Saturday 27 July. Full broadcast and listing details will be revealed in due course. 

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