- Original release
-
Platforms release
- Previous episode S04E01 - The Golden Age of Ballooning
- Number S04E02
- Episode runtime 29 minutes
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Director
Ian MacNaughton
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Writers
Eric Idle
John Cleese
Michael Palin
Terry Jones
Terry Gilliam
Graham Chapman
- Country United Kingdom
- Original language English
- Genre Comedy
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External links
TheTVDB page
IMDB page
TheMovieDB page -
Last update
27 juin 2026 - 07:12
on 11 databases
Michael Ellis
Credits with rolling coin; end credits; a doorman is abused in front of very odd department store (much like Harrod's); a lady buys a flamethrower; some salesclerks make faces at man who wishes to buy an ant (the staff thinks this man is Michael Ellis); man takes ant home to mother; watches BBC lecture on ants; returns defective ant to store; finds Victorian poetry reading about ants; toupee fitting room; manager's office; end of the show department featuring a summing up from the panel, happy ending, long slow fade, two lone figures walking into the sunset, a chase and...
In the realm of British comedy, few shows have left as indelible a mark as 'Not The Nine O'Clock News'. Originally airing on BBC2 from 1979 to 1982, this satirical show became a cultural phenomenon, renowned for its sharp wit and incisive commentary on contemporary issues. Starring comedic heavyweights like Rowan Atkinson, Mel Smith, Griff Rhys-Jones, and Pamela Stephenson, the series quickly established itself as a bastion of intelligent humor during its four-season run.
Season 1 of 'Not The Nine O'Clock News' set the stage for what would become an iconic series. Each episode was a tapestry of sketches that poked fun at everything from politics to popular culture. Whether it was lampooning political figures or creating absurd yet insightful scenarios, Season 1 delivered laughter while provoking thought—a hallmark of any great satire.
The show's unique approach stemmed partly from its "open door" policy for writers. This inclusive strategy allowed for a medley of diverse voices and ideas to contribute sketches, ensuring only the most innovative content made it to air. As a result, viewers were treated to consistently fresh and engaging material each week. Highlights from Season 1 include sketches such as "Clapperboard / Tinker," "Tailor / Kenny Everett Sketch," and "Vivisection Sketch," each showcasing the cast's versatility and impeccable comedic timing.
