Screened as part of ITV's opening night celebrations, this unique trailer from Associated-Rediffusion and ABC Television showed a waiting public what they could look forward to on the new commercial channel.
Around the Beatles was a 1964 television special featuring the Beatles, produced by Jack Good for ITV/Rediffusion London. It was taped in IBC Studios in London on 19 April 1964, and broadcast internationally, with its initial airing on 6 May 1964, and in the US on the ABC network on 15 November. The show featured other performers as well, with the Beatles providing backing vocals for some of them.
Eric Sykes dares to take the lid off the many and varied forms of theatrical entertainment, with the help of Hattie Jacques, Dilys Watling, Leslie Noyes, Philip Gilbert and dancers The Ladybirds.
Kenneth More hosts this gala performance to celebrate HM Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee. It was held in the presence of Princess Alexandra.
Eric Sykes makes a prediction: by 1990, celebrities will have to pay for their own TV shows. Starring in his vision of the future are Tommy Cooper, Chic Murray, Dandy Nichols, Leslie Mitchell and classical guitarist John Williams.
It's 1982 and Eric Sykes makes a prediction that by 1990, celebrities will have to pay for their own TV shows. Tommy Cooper, as the main star, has to employ the other acts who include Henry Cooper and Dandy Nichols.
ITV's stars gather for a special Christmas Day celebration to entertain all the family. With Jimmy Tarbuck (Host), Bruce Forsyth, Mike Yarwood, Max Bygraves, Cannon and Ball, Shakin' Stevens, Bonnie Tyler, Michael Barrymore, Jeremy Beadle, Henry Kelly, Matthew Kelly, Sarah Kennedy, Andy Williams, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Robert Wagner, Stefanie Powers, David Hasselhoff, Alyn Ainsworth Orchestra and Singers.
Gala benefit at the National Theatre, sponsored by Princess Anne, in aid of the Save the Children Fund. Hosted by Jimmy Tarbuck, it includes singing, stand-up comedy, dance, comedy skits, and drama.
JAYNE TORVILL and CHRISTOPHER DEAN are the most exciting and acclaimed ice-skating pair that the World has ever known. In the fantasy spectacle "FIRE AND ICE", freedom from the constraints of competition has inspired them to produce some of the most scintillating and memorable skating of their careers. This enchanting love story sees Torvill as the Ice Princess and Dean as the Fire Prince, exploring a forbidden love which threatens to destroy them both. The ice-dancing is of the highest quality, breathtaking in its artistry and represent-tative of Torvill and Dean's finest work. As the first ever production to feature ice-skaters and dancers in the same arena, it is particularly notable for the superb choreography of Graeme Murphy.
The only ever full recording of Eric Morecambe and Ernie Wise's life stage act was made at Croydon's Fairfield Halls on Sunday 28th October 1973. Filmed as a present for the personal collection of their manager, Billy Marsh, the performance was edited down to an hour and broadcast by Thames Television in 1987. A 66-minute long VHS was released in 1997. This film captures two of Britain's most adored artists performing some of their best loved comedy sketches in front of a live audience. With the backing of their orchestra, under the musical direction of Johnny Wiltshire, Eric & Ernie deliver and ad lib a torrent of gags and one-liners honed over many years on the live comedy circuit. The duo close the show with their classic rendition of Bring Me Sunshine.
A comedy special starring Robbie Coltrane as various quirky characters, from the fiendish B&W Edgar Dustcarten, based on the almost identical Edgar Lustgarten, to a fond recreation of St. Trinians with Coltrane in the Miss Fritton role.
Hosted by Phillip Schofield and Cat Deeley. In 2005 ITV celebrated their 50th anniversary by asking viewers to vote for their top 50 favourite ITV shows. The programmes on the voting forms and on their website were pre-selected by ITV.
The Muslim Jesus is a 2007 British documentary directed and produced by Irshad Ashraf, and commissioned and narrated by Melvyn Bragg. The documentary is about the Islamic view of Jesus. It was broadcast by ITV on 19 August 2007. The one-hour special uses the Quran as its main source, and draws on interviews with scholars and historians.It features commentary from Shaykh Hamza Yusuf Hanson, who was filmed quite extensively for this documentary. The documentary is the first time the subject has been dealt with on British television. The Muslim Jesus explores the similarities and differences between the Jesus of the Gospels and in the Quran. It explores how Islam honours Jesus Christ as a prophet but not as the son of God. According to the Quran the crucifixion was a divine illusion. Instead of dying on the cross, Jesus was rescued by angels and raised to heaven. It concludes that the two faiths have more in common than most people realise.
One-off television special from Kylie Minogue. The show celebrated her 20 years in pop music and acted as promotion for the release of her tenth studio album, X.The show featured the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra as well as the Crazy Horse Girls as her backing dancers, flown in from Paris to perform especially for the show. The show also featured memorable sketches: in particular, one in which her ex-boyfriend and former co-star Jason Donovan fails to recognise her; and another where she has a catfight with her sister, Dannii, and winds up punching Simon Cowell in the face At the conclusion of the program, Minogue turns around in her makeup chair, revealing herself to be Joan Collins. Set list "Can't Get You Out of My Head" (Greg Kurstin Remix) "2 Hearts" "Tears on My Pillow" "Wow" "No More Rain" "Got to Be Certain" "The One" "I Believe In You" (ballad version) "Sensitized" "Cosmic"
Granada Studios has dominated the Manchester skyline for the past 56 years – a beacon to the very best in British television. The first television complex to be built in the UK and home to some of the greatest television programmes of all time. Now, after over half a century, the building will close as ITV moves to its new home in Salford’s Media City. It’s time to switch off the lights with Granada’s biggest fan, Peter Kay, as he goes behind-the-scenes at the iconic Granada building on Manchester's Quay Street.
An exploration of the unique relationship between man and his best friend; from the birth of a litter of puppies, through guide dog training, to placement with those who need them most. With exclusive access to The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, this heart-warming film, narrated by dog-lover, Paul O’Grady, highlights the difference guide dogs make to people’s lives. For the past 80 years, the Association has been matching the visually impaired with their canine guides in life-changing partnerships. From Steve Cunningham, the world’s fastest blind man, who drives racing cars at high speed, to newly-engaged Mark and Claire who were brought together by their guide dogs’ own romance and Liverpool-based 24-year-old Lynette Proctor who’s undergoing guide-dog training with her first guide dog Pippa. We hear the heartfelt stories of the difference dogs can make to the lives of those who cannot see for themselves. Every hour, another person in the UK goes blind. When someone loses their sight, guide dogs ensure they don’t have to lose their freedom as well.
Andrew Lloyd Webber: 40 Musical Years is an evening of show-stopping performances, one-off collaborations and insights from Andrew on his extraordinary career. The 90-minute special, hosted by Michael Ball, features a star-studded line up performing some of Andrew’s best-loved music, as the award-winning composer and producer celebrates an unbroken run of 40 years of shows in the West End. Stars including Nicole Scherzinger, Kimberley Walsh, Melanie C, Myleene Klass, Il Divo, Tim Minchin and Samantha Barks, will perform special versions of some of Andrew’s greatest hits, including songs from Cats, The Phantom of the Opera, Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar and Tell Me On A Sunday.
Legendary American music star Neil Diamond takes centre stage at the London Palladium for a one-off TV special Rob Brydon, one of Neil’s greatest fans, not only hosts the show but also takes his musical hero on a journey back to Brooklyn and to where Neil Diamond’s story began. The pair head to Coney Island and Brighton Beach, to Flatbush and to Neil’s childhood home as well as spending time at the legendary “Bitter End“ Club. This special will also see Neil perform some of his greatest hits as well as tracks from his eagerly anticipated new album.
ITV celebrates 20 years of the world-renowned dancer, musician and choreographer Michael Flatley, from his historic first steps on the world stage and subsequent stellar rise to fame. Hosted by Christine Bleakley, the show will be a night to remember for Michael as he looks back at his extraordinary career, from humble beginnings in Chicago to the exceptional journey which saw him become the most successful and highest paid dancer in history. Also paying tribute are friends and fans including Sir Bruce Forsyth. The evening will also feature exclusive material and a sneak peak of Michael’s new show, Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games. Former Girls Aloud star Nadine Coyle, who will star as The Goddess Erin in the production, will perform the title song live in the studio.
Hosted by Angus Deayton, this seasonal special celebrates the funny side of Christmas. There’s everything from cringe-worthy gifts and festive fads to cheesy songs and unsettling Santas. Plus, there are never-seen-before TV presenter fails and bloopers. Festive foul-ups include Christmas Light fails and an unfortunate reindeer stuck on a rooftop. Revel in the madness of Christmas past including Cabbage Patch-mania, The Krankies Christmas TV Special and a 1950’s cartoon oddity with an unfortunate name. Angus uncovers some odd Yuletide traditions from around the world including the Mexican nativity scene recreated by radishes, the Spanish festive figurines that poop and a mythical Austrian figure that's more Halloween than Christmas! Plus, there are some last-minute Christmas gifts ideas for the man who has everything: the Potty Putter, where you can practice your golf swing while sat on the toilet.
Great Scott! Back to the Future Day on ITV2 sees all three time-travelling films aired in a celebration of the cult classics. Slap bang in the middle of this birthday bash is a one off celebratory special – Keith Lemon’s Back t’Future Tribute. It’s been 30 years since Marty McFly stepped into Doc Brown's time travelling DeLorean and ITV2 is celebrating in style. Back to the Future Day on 21 October 2015 is the date inventor Doc Brown and Marty journey to in Back to the Future II - to a world of flying cars and self-tying sneakers, instant pizza and faxes in every room. From 4.30pm, ITV2 will air all three films, plus at 9pm Back to the Future’s biggest fan, Keith Lemon, is creating his very own celebratory one off special to mark the occasion - Keith Lemon’s Back t'Future Tribute. So rev your engines up to 88 miles an hour and get your flux capacitor’s ready for a stellar trip through time.
The much loved and classic Rogers and Hammerstein musical ‘The Sound of Music’ will be broadcast live for the very first time here in the UK. This major event will bring the timeless story of Maria and the Von Trapp family to life in an ambitious musical drama. Based on the original stage musical with a book by Lindsay & Crouse and suggested by The Trapp Family Singers by Maria Augusta Trapp, The Sound of Music Live! will include all of the songs from its classic score by Rodgers and Hammerstein, including How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria, Edelweiss, Do-Re-Mi, My Favourite Things, Climb Ev’ry Mountain and the title song.
ITV's annual charity appeal returns with a host of stars all doing their bit in a Christmas knit for a three-hour TV spectacular featuring live music, surprises and special guests.
Hundreds of stars and thousands of fans will join host Dermot O’Leary at the 21st National Television Awards for the biggest night in British TV.
Ant and Dec host a spectacular event in the presence of Her Majesty The Queen. Set in the private grounds of Windsor Castle, the best of British talent will join more than 900 horses and 1500 participants for this special celebration of the Queen’s life. Stars taking to the stage will include Dame Helen Mirren, Dame Shirley Bassey, Kylie Minogue, Andrea Bocelli, Gary Barlow, Damian Lewis, Jess Glynne, Imelda Staunton, Jim Carter, Alfie Boe, James Blunt, Katherine Jenkins, Beverley Knight, Jennifer Saunders, Alan Titchmarsh and Martin Clunes whilst performers in the arena will include The Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Chilean Huasos, Azerbaijani horses and riders and over 100 Military and Commonwealth Pipers. The celebration will also include rare archive footage and will tell the story of the Queen’s remarkable life from her birth in 1926 to a reign spanning more than 60 years.
Two of the greatest voices in the world, Michael Ball and Alfie Boe, join forces for the first time in a TV special on ITV. Ball and Boe will be bringing together their unique blend of extraordinary and exceptional talent alongside their infectious humour to this one-off TV special. These two vocal powerhouses will take to the stage to perform some of their critically acclaimed hits, as well as brand new material from their upcoming new album ‘Together’ due for release on the 4th November and an exclusive medley from the global smash hit musical “Les Misérables”. Viewers will also see the duo perform unique collaborations with the four time Olivier Award winner Maria Friedman and singer songwriter Rick Astley. Michael said, “We've got an album, we've got a tour and now we've got an ITV Special. You can't get better than that. We have some great material to share with the viewers, I can't wait to get started.” Alfie said, “We had such a laugh making the album, making our own TV show is going to be great. Make sure you tune in for some special performances.” The music stars have amassed a wealth of awards throughout their hugely successful careers. Celebrating 30 years in the industry, Michael’s outstanding performances have made box office history. He is a double Olivier Award winner, multi-platinum recording artist, top selling live concert performer and a hugely popular radio and TV presenter. Alfie’s exceptional voice has made him Britain’s most popular and biggest-selling tenor. He has conquered the world’s greatest opera stages and arenas, led the cast of Les Misérables and performed at the Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations at Windsor Castle – as well as achieving UK album sales of over a million, and four top ten albums.
The Queen makes her annual address to the nation and the Commonwealth.
Angus Deayton takes a wry look at the funny side of Christmas, including everything from cringe-worthy gifts and festive fads to cheesy songs and unsettling Santas.
Two hour special featuring some of the UK's finest pro wrestlers including, 'The East End Butcher' Sha Samuels, Dave Mastiff and 'Viper' Kimberly Benson. With the WoS Wrestling belt up for grabs there is sure to be no holds barred!
Take That will unveil an exciting new set especially designed and routines exclusively produced for this one off TV special. The band invite viewers to join them in "Wonderland" for 'An Evening with Take That'.
A lavish one-off special with Sheridan Smith, a multi award-winning actress and singer, which sees her headlining her own show for the very first time. The star of ITV shows such as Mrs Biggs and Cilla – for which she won a BAFTA Award – showcases exclusive performances of songs from her new album and other musical numbers, accompanied by a live orchestra. Sheridan also talks with host Alexander Armstrong about her life and career.
Festive comedy special hosted by Al Murray as The Pub Landlord.
Fern Britton hosts a panel show about the royal family. Joe Pasquale, Angellica Bell, Hal Cruttenden and Jodie Kidd put their knowledge of the queen and her family to the ultimate test over a series of quiz rounds and special challenges, with former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond on hand to share her expert insight into the monarchy.
Michael Ball and Alfie Boe perform some of their favourite songs while also singing against each other in a musical fight to the finish. With Imelda May and Jason Manford.
ITV celebrates the The World’s Ugliest Pets in all their glory, warts and all, in this brand new programme. Host and animal lover Caroline Quentin shares her love for fabulously ugly furry friends taking a warm look at these unsightly animals and meeting everything from hairless guinea pigs and featherless chicks, to giant snails and very unfortunate-looking dogs. Revealing she has five dogs, six cats, seven chickens and occasionally has pigs, sheep and turkeys, Caroline Quentin says: “I think all my animals are absolutely beautiful. But not all animals are drop-dead gorgeous. In their world, as in the human world, there’s the good, the bad and the ugly!” Starting her journey in the UK, Caroline meets some of the country’s most aesthetically-challenged pets to discover why some people have deliberately ugly animals and to explore why the Brits love an underdog. She learns about the quirky looking animals and their unique personalities and meets each of the pets’ devoted owners who’ll share how their unconventional animals, such as dog Mugly, have opened their hearts and changed their lives. Along the way Caroline searches for Britain’s ugliest pooch to take to America and represent the UK. Can a British mutt steal the title away from the Americans to be crowned the winner of The World’s Ugliest Dog Contest in California?
Music show special. Some of the world's biggest music stars perform Elton John's back catalogue in a special programme from Madison Square Garden.
For one night only, join Olly Murs in his old stomping ground in Essex as he takes over an entire pub and puts on a jam packed night of games, chat, and special performances.
They’re back. After the massive success of their previous albums and sold out tours, the unstoppable force that is Michael Ball and Alfie Boe reunite for an unmissable festive night of music. Showcasing both their unique blend of extraordinary talent and infectious humour, the iconic duo will perform exciting new material alongside some Christmas favourites, as well as singing with special guests Dame Shirley Bassey, Luke Evans and Gregory Porter.
Sheridan Smith presents a countdown of the top 25 TV detectives of all time, as voted for by the British viewing public. From Marple to Magnum PI, Luther to Line of Duty and Cracker to Columbo, Sheridan takes viewers on a whistle-stop trip through 70 years of the most famous sleuths on television. From the spires of Oxford with Morse to the skyscrapers of New York with Cagney & Lacey, and from the quintessentially British Midsomer Murders to the brooding Scandi Noir of The Bridge, the programme flips through the crime files of the greatest detectives that have ever graced TV screens.
Gary Barlow hosts musical fun from the Natural History Museum in London and performs some of his biggest hits, songs from his new album, and some exciting covers.
The mezzo-soprano presents a concert of seasonal favourites, captured live in London, with guests including bass-baritone Bryn Terfel, Italian tenor Alberto Urso, American Broadway star Marisha Wallace, English National Ballet lead principal Erina Takahashi, the Royal Air Force Regiment Band and actors Vanessa Redgrave and Bill Nighy.
Michael Ball and Alfie Boe host a traditional Christmas Eve celebration from St Elizabeth's Church in Greater Manchester. The duo lead the musical performances, which also feature acclaimed jazz singer Jamie Cullum, singer-songwriter Ella Henderson, the Kingdom Choir and West End star Marisha Wallace
Chefs including Gino D'ACampo, James Martin, Ainsley Harriott and Lisa Faulkner watch and remember those moments where it all went horribly wrong - on telly.
The Duchess of Cambridge hosts a carol service at Westminster Abbey to celebrate the work of individuals and organisations who supported communities during the pandemic.
Dame Helen Mirren, Damian Lewis, Omid Djalili, Alan Titchmarsh and Tom Cruise lead an all-star cast of talent celebrating Her Majesty The Queen's Platinum Jubilee.
Hosted by Alesha Dixon and Jason Manford, the event will take a look back at the key occasions and most memorable moments of 2023, with the evening set to feature musical performances, popular culture highlights, key sporting moments and worldwide events that have impacted the UK throughout the year.