Cult series now available to download and keep from the iTunes Store.

 

Vyvyan, Rick, Neil and Mike, the infamous characters from the 1980’s hit TV series 'The Young Ones', are today making a comeback thanks to a distribution deal between BBC Worldwide and iTunes.

 

The BBC's commercial arm was the first UK broadcaster to offer television content on iTunes and this latest programming allows fans in the UK to legally download and watch the popular television show for the first time.

 

The Young Ones captures the essence of student life in Thatcherite Britain in the early 80's, following four students studying at the aptly named Scumbag College.

 

The main characters played by Rik Mayall, Ade Edmondson, Nigel Planer and Christopher Ryan share both a house and apathy for life and the society they live in.

 

The anarchic, offbeat humour still has a strong and loyal following and is attracting a new young audience via blogs and forums.  In addition, clips are proving increasingly popular on BBC Worldwide's YouTube and MySpace channels.

 

iTunes users in the UK will be able to download an episode to own for just £1.89. All six 30-minute episodes from series one will be available to download today, with the six 30-minute episodes from series 2 following shortly.

 

The videos will be viewable on Mac or PC, iPod with video, iPhone or Apple TV.

 

Simon Danker, Director, Digital Media at BBC Worldwide commented: "The Young Ones was a massive cult hit when it aired first time round and its continuing fan base marks it out as a truly classic show. Making the series available on iTunes will bring it to a whole new audience, while existing fans can relive their 80's memories with a show that literally blasted its way on to the screens.

 

"Whether you want to watch the Atom Bomb Episode or the final Summer Holiday show, the whole twisted, violently slapstick history of The Young Ones will be available online."

 

 

Alex Fulton