It’s easier than ever to access a vast library of television content, but for fans of classic British television, there’s still a treasure trove of lost or forgotten shows waiting to be rediscovered. Thanks to dedicated enthusiasts and online platforms like YouTube, things are beginning to change.
A door is opening on the golden age of British television.
One such hidden gem is the show “A Man Called Harry Brent.” Recently uploaded to YouTube, this 1965 series stars Gerald Harper as a detective investigating the murder of an engineering company director. The show also features Edward Brayshaw, known for his role in “Rentaghost” (and of course as a key character in 1969’s “Doctor Who” serial The War Games) as the titular Harry Brent. This forgotten series is a fascinating find and a testament to the power of online communities in preserving television history.
For those who enjoy comedy, there’s also exciting news. Two episodes from the classic British comedy show “Not Only… But Also” (from 1966 and 1970) have been uploaded to YouTube from off-air audio recordings. These episodes, featuring Peter Cook, Dudley Moore, and various guests like Ronnie Barker, offer a glimpse into the hilarious sketch comedy of the 1960s and 1970s. While you won’t be able to see the visual elements, the audio recordings are still enjoyable and capture the essence of these classic performances.
YouTube has become a valuable platform for preserving and sharing lost or rare television content. Channels like “Classic British Telly” and “Audio Only” have dedicated themselves to uploading and preserving these classics. By exploring these channels, you can discover a wealth of hidden treasures that are no longer available on mainstream streaming services.
While YouTube may not be perfect, it’s playing a vital role in preserving television history. As older television shows are digitized and archived, they become accessible in a way their producers could never have dreamed of.