That’s TV, the British archive TV channel, has announced it will broadcast the LWT sitcom On the Buses, starring Reg Varney, Stephen Lewis and Bob Grant. The announcement was posted on their social media alongside a video clip of the series.
What is On the Buses
On the Buses follows the misadventures of bus driver Stan Butler (Varney), and his conductor Jack (Grant). They often have run-ins with Inspector Blake (Lewis). In addition to the day job, we also see Stan’s home life with his Mother, sister Olive (Karen) and her husband Arthur (Robbins). The series was known for it’s risque postcard humour.
On the Buses first aired on ITV in 1969, running for 74 episodes over 7 series; It ended in 1973. Ronald Chesney and Ronald Wolfe created the series, which starred Reg Varney, Stephen Lewis, Bob Grant, Anna Karen and Michael Robbins. Cicely Courtneidge initially played the mother in the first series, but was later replaced by Doris Hare.
The series was adapted into three feature-length movies which regularly air on television, including On the Buses, Mutiny On the Buses and Holiday On the Buses. It also inspired a spin-off entitled Don’t Drink the Water.
The Progression of That’s TV
The That’s TV network has significantly increased its offering of classic TV in recent years. What started as a single channel airing reruns of Benny Hill and Kenny Everett, has expanded into multiple channels with classic programming. Current shows include Home to Roost, Bread, Duty Free, and Rising Damp. We will continue to publicise future additions following their announcement.
That’s TV 3 is available to view on Freeview (71), Sky (183), and Virgin (296).
Jamie’s Reaction
I adored this show as a kid. It is one of my earliest memories of seeing a classic sitcom. While it is of it’s time, I still marvel at the performances from the main cast. It is a little pantomime in places, but an excellent example of a show that captured the public’s imagination. I can’t be the only one who always felt for “Blakey” having to deal with Stan and Jack, or for Olive over her abrupt husband.
It’s great to see That’s TV continue to bring iconic British programming to the screen, some of it once unobtainable for a while. Although it has been seen on ITV3 often, it is usually preserved for late night or early morning. Placing it at 9pm on a nightly basis makes it feel like it will find an audience once again.
When is On the Buses on That’s TV?
On the Buses will begin airing on Monday the 3rd of February at 9 pm, on That’s TV 3. Check the That’s TV schedule for more details.
Will you be watching On the Buses? Let us know on social media or by commenting below.
