BBC Four is to screen classic editions of the Antiques Roadshow as part of an evening’s schedule. The show celebrates its 45th anniversary this year.
Based on an earlier documentary, Antiques Roadshow began as a series in 1979, hosted by Bruce Parker. The format, unchanged since the beginning, sees a group of antique experts hold events at places across the country. Local people bring along antique items of interest to be valued. Other program presenters have included Angela Rippon, Arthur Negus, Hugh Scully, Michael Aspel and (currently) Fiona Bruce. The show is (at present) airing its 46th series.
On the evening of the 23rd of June, programming will begin with a recent episode of the show from series 40. This will be followed by an Aspel-hosted edition from 2004, a 1987 Scully episode and a Negus / Rippon-fronted episode from 1980. This celebration of Antiques Roadshow will conclude with the first transmitted edition from 1979, hosted by Bruce Parker.
It is unknown if the BBC plans to screen any more classic editions of Antiques Roadshow at this time. It is assumed (by this writer at the very least) that this is purely a celebratory scheduling to acknowledge the impact and legacy of Antiques Roadshow.
