: The other four episodes survive only as high-quality audio recordings, often sourced from off-air recordings of Australian broadcasts.
: The BBC used this series to showcase its relatively new color television service, making the duo Radio Times cover stars to promote the technology.
: In April 2026 , another lost 1968 episode was rediscovered in a private collection, described as fast-paced and witty, featuring sketches like a nudist camp spoof. The Morecambe & Wise Show (1968) - Series 1 Com...
The 1968 debut of on BBC2 marked the legendary return of Eric Morecambe and Ernie Wise to the BBC. This first series, broadcast from September 2 to October 21, 1968, was a critical turning point that eventually established them as the nation's most beloved comedy duo. Series Overview and Production
For decades, Series 1 was considered "lost" because the BBC did not archive the master tapes. : The other four episodes survive only as
: The series consisted of eight episodes broadcast on Monday nights.
: Just over two weeks after the series finale, Eric Morecambe suffered a serious heart attack on November 7, 1968, which temporarily halted production and put future series in doubt. The "Lost" Episodes Status The 1968 debut of on BBC2 marked the
: Unlike the later "golden era" written by Eddie Braben , Series 1 was penned by Dick Hills and Sid Green , who had worked with the pair at ITV.