The Missing Hancocks

Episodes

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Director's Commentary20141031The Missing Hancocks are five episodes of Hancock's Half Hour either missing or lost from the archive which BBC Radio 4 have remade to celebrate the show's 60th anniversary.

In this 'directors' commentary' Andy Hamilton introduces the first episode of the series, The Matador. Andy stops the action as he talks to co-producer Neil Pearson and - the actor charged with playing the lad 'imself - Kevin McNally about the challenges, and joys, of recreating a 1950s sitcom in 2014.

The conversation takes in the casting, production and even the music of the show, as well as what got changed in these new recordings.

A must-listen for fans of good comedy and good radio - and, specifically, Hancock's Half Hour.

Producer Ed Morrish.

MADE FOR BBC RADIO 4 EXTRA.

Andy Hamilton presents a lost episode, plus interviews with Neil Pearson and Kevin McNally

0101The Matador2014103120160719/20/4) (BBC7)Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Ray Galton and Alan Simpson's comedy classic Hancock's Half Hour. The first modern sitcom, it made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Galton and Simpson on one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show are missing from the BBC archives, and have not been heard since their original transmission nearly sixty years ago. Now, five of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre, featuring a stellar cast led by Kevin McNally as The Lad Himself.

Tonight's episode: The Matador. Tony uses Sid's travel agency to book a holiday in Spain, little knowing that Sid also runs a bullfighting business....

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score newly recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Susy Kane. The Matador was last broadcast in October 1955.

Produced by Ed Morrish and Neil Pearson.

Tony books a holiday with Sid's travel agency unaware he also runs a bullfighting business

0102The Newspaper2014110720160726/27/4) (BBC7)Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Ray Galton and Alan Simpson's comedy classic Hancock's Half Hour. The first modern sitcom, it made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Galton and Simpson on one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show are missing from the BBC archives, and have not been heard since their original transmission nearly sixty years ago. Now, five of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre, featuring a stellar cast led by Kevin McNally as The Lad Himself.

Tonight's episode: The Newspaper. Tony inherits a newspaper, and sets about changing the world.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score newly recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Susy Kane. The Newspaper was last broadcast in February 1956.

Produced by Ed Morrish and Neil Pearson.

Tony inherits a newspaper and sets about changing the world.

0103The Hancock Festival2014111420160802/03 (BBC7)
Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Ray Galton and Alan Simpson's comedy classic Hancock's Half Hour. The first modern sitcom, it made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Galton and Simpson on one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show are missing from the BBC archives, and have not been heard since their original transmission nearly sixty years ago. Now, five of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre, featuring a stellar cast led by Kevin McNally as The Lad Himself.

Tonight's episode: The Hancock Festival. Inspired by Somerset Maugham's pay packet, Tony becomes a writer. His friends are recruited to bring his dramatic offerings to life.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score newly recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Margaret Cabourn-Smith. The Hancock Festival was only ever broadcast once, in November 1954.

Produced by Ed Morrish and Neil Pearson.

0104The Breakfast Cereal2014112120160809/10/4) (BBC7)Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Ray Galton and Alan Simpson's comedy classic Hancock's Half Hour. The first modern sitcom, it made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Galton and Simpson on one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show are missing from the BBC archives, and have not been heard since their original transmission nearly sixty years ago. Now, five of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre, featuring a stellar cast led by Kevin McNally as The Lad Himself.

Tonight's episode: The Breakfast Cereal. 'Tony changes his breakfast routine in search of that Zing, Pep and Get Up and Go feeling, and ends up in court.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score newly recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Susy Kane. The Breakfast Cereal was last broadcast in April 1956.

Produced by Ed Morrish and Neil Pearson.

Tony changes his breakfast routine, and ends up in court.

0105The New Neighbour2014112820160816/17/4) (BBC7)Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Ray Galton and Alan Simpson's comedy classic Hancock's Half Hour. The first modern sitcom, it made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Galton and Simpson on one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show are missing from the BBC archives, and have not been heard since their original transmission nearly sixty years ago. Now, five of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre, featuring a stellar cast led by Kevin McNally as The Lad Himself.

Tonight's episode: The New Neighbour. Tony has a new neighbour, whose night-time routine is very, very suspicious.....

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score newly recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Susy Kane. The New Neighbour was last broadcast in March 1956.

Produced by Ed Morrish and Neil Pearson.

0201How Hancock Won The War2015112320200827/28 (BBC7)
Tony Hancock tells Andree how he got his war wound, which is a story you may find hard to believe...

Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Galton and Simpson's classic sitcom Hancock's Half Hour. But 20 went missing from the BBC archives and had not been heard since their original transmissio

Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Galton and Simpson's classic sitcom Hancock's Half Hour. But 20 went missing from the BBC archives and had not been heard since their original transmission - until these faithful re-imaginings.

After a highly acclaimed first series, another five were lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at London's BBC Radio Theatre.

The Lad Himself - . Kevin McNally

Bill Kerr - . Kevin Eldon

Sid James - . Simon Greenall

Kenneth Williams - . Robin Sebastian

Andree Melly - . Susy Kane

Newly recorded score by the BBC Concert Orchestra.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson.

Produced by Ed Morrish and Neil Pearson.

Originally broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in February 1956.

Recreated for broadcast by BBC Radio Comedy for BBC Radio 4 and first broadcast in November 2015.

Tony tells Andree about his war wound, which is a story one may find hard to believe.

0202The Red Planet2015113020200903/04 (BBC7)
Tony Hancock takes up astronomy, and discovers something terrible among the stars.

Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Galton & Simpson's comedy but 20 went missing from the BBC archives, and had not been heard since their original transmissio

Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Galton & Simpson's comedy but 20 went missing from the BBC archives, and had not been heard since their original transmission - until these faithful re-imaginings.

After a highly acclaimed first series, another five were lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at London's BBC Radio Theatre.

The Lad Himself - . Kevin McNally

Bill Kerr - . Kevin Eldon

Sid James - . Simon Greenall

Kenneth Williams - . Robin Sebastian

Andree Melly - . Susy Kane

Newly recorded score by the BBC Concert Orchestra

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson

Produced by Ed Morrish and Neil Pearson

Originally broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in November 1955.

Recreated for broadcast by BBC Radio Comedy for BBC Radio 4 and first broadcast in November 2015.

Tony takes up astronomy, and finds something terrible among the stars.

0203The Marriage Bureau2015120720200910/11 (BBC7)
Hear the ORIGINAL 'lost' recording of this 1955 episode on Wednesday 26th October on BBC Radio 4 Extra

To get you in the mood - here is the 2015 recreation!

********************************************************

Tony Hancock needs a job, but can't get one as an unmarried man. Luckily, Sidney James has a proposal.

Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Galton & Simpson's comedy but 20 went missing from the BBC archives, and had not been heard since their original transmissio

Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Galton & Simpson's comedy but 20 went missing from the BBC archives, and had not been heard since their original transmission - until these faithful re-imaginings.

After a highly acclaimed first series, another five were lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at London's BBC Radio Theatre.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson

Tony Hancock - . Kevin McNally

Bill Kerr - . Kevin Eldon

Sid James - . Simon Greenall

Kenneth Williams - . Robin Sebastian

Margaret Cabourn-Smith - . Moira Lister

Newly recorded score by the BBC Concert Orchestra

Produced by Ed Morrish and Neil Pearson.

Originally broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in February 1955.

Recreated for broadcast by BBC Radio Comedy for BBC Radio 4 and first broadcast in November 2015.

Hancock needs to get married to get a job. A 1955 original re-recorded in in 2015.

0204A Visit To Russia2015121420200917/18 (BBC7)Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Ray Galton and Alan Simpson's comedy classic Hancock's Half Hour. The first modern sitcom, it made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Galton and Simpson on one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history.

Sadly, 20 episodes of the show went missing from the BBC archives, and had not been heard since their original transmission, until this series of faithful re-imaginings. These episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre, featuring a stellar cast,

This episode: ‘A Visit To Russia'. With East/West relations in crisis, Tony takes it upon himself to launch his very own diplomatic mission...

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score newly recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra. ‘A Visit To Russia' was first broadcast on the Light Programme on 14th December 1955.

CAST:

This episode: ‘A Visit To Russia'. With East/West relations in crisis, Tony takes it upon himself to launch his very own diplomatic mission...

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score newly recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra. ‘A Visit To Russia' was first broadcast on the Light Programme on 14th December 1955.

Tony Hancock - . Kevin McNally

Bill Kerr - . Kevin Eldon

Sid James - . Simon Greenall

Kenneth Williams - . Robin Sebastian

Andree Melly - . Susy Kane

Produced by Ed Morrish and Neil Pearson.

A BBC Radio Comedy Production first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2015.

Tony launches a diplomatic mission to Russia. A 1955 original re-recorded in in 2015.

0205The Trial Of Father Christmas2015122120201223/7) (BBC7)The Anthony Hancock Strolling Players present a cautionary tale of Christmas as it might be.

Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Galton and Simpson's classic sitcom Hancock's Half Hour. But 20 went missing from the BBC archives, and had not been heard since their original transmissio

Between 1954 and 1959, BBC Radio recorded 102 episodes of Galton and Simpson's classic sitcom Hancock's Half Hour. But 20 went missing from the BBC archives, and had not been heard since their original transmission - until these faithful re-imaginings.

After a highly acclaimed first series, another five were lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at London's BBC Radio Theatre.

Tony Hancock - . Kevin McNally

Bill Kerr - . Kevin Eldon

Sid James - . Simon Greenall

Kenneth Williams - . Robin Sebastian

Andre Melly - . Susy Kane

With Simon Greenall and John Finnemore

Newly recorded score by the BBC Concert Orchestra

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson

Produced by Ed Morrish and Neil Pearson

Originally broadcast on the BBC Light Programme on 21 December 1955.

Recreated for broadcast by BBC Radio Comedy for BBC Radio 4 and first broadcast in December 2015.

The Anthony Hancock Strolling Players with a cautionary tale of Christmas as it might be.

0301The Three Sons2017041120170418/19 (BBC7)
/06 (BBC7)
A modern morality tale of old Ebidiah Hancock and his three sons, all of whom are played by Hancock.

The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Radio Show Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive. Not heard since then, this is a real piece of comedy history.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson on one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But twenty episodes of the show are missing from the BBC archives. After two highly successful series, another five episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

CAST:

Kevin McNally

Andy Secombe

Kevin Eldon

Simon Greenall

Robin Sebastian

Susy Kane

Produced by Neil Pearson and Paul Sheehan.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

The original version of ‘The Three Sons' was first broadcast on the 21st June, 1955.

A BBC Studios Production for Radio 4, first broadcast in April 2017.

This modern morality tale tells the story of old Ebidiah Hancock and his three sons.

The original version of ‘The Three Sons' was first broadcast on the 21st June, 1955.

0302A Visit To Swansea2017040420170411/12 (BBC7)
 (BBC7)
The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive. Something else had gone missing at the start of this series - The Lad Himself, who had absconded to Rome. In 1955, he was replaced for the first three episodes by the Goon Show's Harry Secombe, who in this recreation has been replaced by Andy Secombe - Harry's son. After Tony returned from his jaunt the writers Galton and Simpson ensured he wasn't allowed to forget who had saved his bacon, so in this episode, for one show only, both Tony and Harry appeared together in Hancock's Half Hour. Not heard since then, this is a real piece of comedy history.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson on one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show are missing from the BBC archives. Now, after two highly successful series, another five of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

This episode was first broadcast on the 10th May 1955.

Tony, Bill, Andree and Sid head to Swansea in search of Harry Secombe. This episode was first broadcast on the 10th May 1955.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score newly recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Andy Secombe, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Susy Kane. A Visit to Swansea.

Produced by Neil Pearson & Paul Sheehan.

Written by Ray Galton & Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

A BBC Studios Production.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2017.

0303A Holiday In France2017031420170321/22 (BBC7)
 (BBC7)
The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive. Something else has gone missing in this episode from the second series - the lad 'imself, who had absconded to Rome. In 1955, he was replaced for the first three episodes by the Goon Show's Harry Secombe. In this recreation, he has been replaced by Andy Secombe - Harry's son. Not heard since then, this is a real piece of comedy history.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson on one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show are missing from the BBC archives. Now, after two highly successful series, another five of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

A Holiday In France:

Harry Secombe and Bill leave for a holiday in Southend but they get on the wrong train and end up in Paris where they first meet Andree.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score newly recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Andy Secombe, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Susy Kane. A Holiday In France was first broadcast on the 19th April, 1955.

Produced by Ed Morrish & Neil Pearson.

Written by Ray Galton & Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

A BBC Studios Production

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2017.

Harry Secombe and Bill leave for a holiday in Southend, but they end up in Paris.

0304The Crown Jewels2017032120170328/29 (BBC7)
 (BBC7)
The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive. Something else has gone missing in this episode from the second series - the lad 'imself, who had absconded to Rome. In 1955, he was replaced for the first three episodes by the Goon Show's Harry Secombe. In this recreation, he has been replaced by Andy Secombe - Harry's son. Not heard since then, this is a real piece of comedy history.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson on one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show are missing from the BBC archives. Now, after two highly successful series, another five of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

Tonight's episode: The Crown Jewels. As Hancock is absent, Bill is staying with Harry Secombe. They decide to show Andree the sights of London but get caught up in Sid's plot to steal the Crown Jewels.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score newly recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Andy Secombe, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Susy Kane. The Crown Jewels was first broadcast on the 26th April, 1955.

Produced by Ed Morrish & Neil Pearson.

Written by Ray Galton & Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

A BBC Radio Comedy Production.

Bill and Harry get caught up in Sid's plot to steal the crown jewels.

0305The Racehorse2017032820170404/05 (BBC7)
/06 (BBC7)
The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive. Something else has gone missing in this episode from the second series - the lad 'imself, who had absconded to Rome. In 1955, he was replaced for the first three episodes by the Goon Show's Harry Secombe. In this recreation, he has been replaced by Andy Secombe - Harry's son. Not heard since then, this is a real piece of comedy history.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson on one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show are missing from the BBC archives. Now, after two highly successful series, another five of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

Tonight's episode: The Racehorse. With Tony Hancock indisposed, Harry Secombe has 10 bob left so Bill decides to spend it on a racehorse. The fact that it only has three legs doesn't deter Sid from entering it in the Britannia Steeplechase.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score newly recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Andy Secombe, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Susy Kane. The Racehorse was first broadcast on the 3rd May, 1955.

Produced by Ed Morrish & Neil Pearson.

Written by Ray Galton & Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

A BBC Radio Comedy Production.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2017.

Harry Secombe has 10 bob left, so Bill decides to spend it on a racehorse.

0401The Winter Holiday2018120620181213/14 (BBC7)
/4) (BBC7)
The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson as one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show were missing from the BBC archives. Now, after three highly successful series, another batch of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

Tonight's episode: The Winter Holiday. Tony Hancock takes a break from his job as a lift attendant and decides to head to the seaside for a fortnight in Brighton...in winter!

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score re-recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Susy Kane. The Winter Holiday was first broadcast on the 16th November, 1955.

Produced by Neil Pearson & Paul Sheehan.

Written by Ray Galton & Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

A BBC Studios Production.

Tony, Andree and Bill head to Brighton for a seaside holiday...in November.

0402Department Store Santa2018121320181220/21 (BBC7)
 (BBC7)
 (BBC7)
The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson as one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show were missing from the BBC archives. Now, after three highly successful series, another batch of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

Tonight's episode: Hancock and Kerr are forced to stop claiming unemployment benefits by the Ministry Of Labour, so the Lad Himself takes on a job as Santa in Sid's department store.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score re-recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Margaret Cabourn-Smith. The Department Store Santa was first broadcast on the 14th December, 1954.

Produced by Neil Pearson & Paul Sheehan.

Written by Ray Galton & Alan Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

A BBC Studios Production.

Hancock is forced to stop claiming benefits, so takes up a new position as Santa.

0403The Diamond Ring2019110520191112/13 (BBC7)
/4) (BBC7)
The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson as one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show were missing from the BBC archives. Now, after four highly successful series, the final batch of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

Tonight's episode: Hancock finds a diamond ring, but when Moira gets it into her head that marriage is in the air, Tony is forced to turn to Sid for help.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score re-recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Margaret Cabourn-Smith. The Diamond Ring was first broadcast on 9th November 1954.

Produced by Neil Pearson & Hayley Sterling.

Written by Ray Galton & Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

A BBC Studios Production.

Hancock finds a diamond ring - and a heap of trouble.

0404Prime Minister Hancock2019121820191225/26 (BBC7)
 (BBC7)
The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson as one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show were missing from the BBC archives. Now, after four highly successful series, the final batch of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

Tonight's episode: Hancock stands for Parliament, with no success whatsoever. But in his dreams he's swept to power on a landslide, and the country salutes......Prime Minister Hancock.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score re-recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Susy Kane. Prime Minister Hancock was first broadcast on the 31st May, 1955.

Produced by Neil Pearson & Hayley Sterling.

Written by Ray Galton & Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

A BBC Studios Production.

Hancock stands for Parliament and dreams he becomes prime minister.

0405Christmas At Aldershot2019122520200101/02 (BBC7)The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson as one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show were missing from the BBC archives. Now, after four highly successful series, the final batch of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

Tonight's episode: Hancock is looking forward to Christmas, but then his call-up papers arrive. And as if that wasn't bad enough, his commanding officer turns out to be one Sidney James.....

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score re-recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Margaret Cabourn-Smith. Christmas At Aldershot was first broadcast on the 21st December, 1954.

Produced by Neil Pearson & Hayley Sterling.

Written by Ray Galton & Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

A BBC Studios Production.

0406The Counterfeiter2020010120200108/09 (BBC7)The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson as one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show were missing from the BBC archives. Now, after four highly successful series, the final batch of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

Tonight's episode: Hancock's fed up with Bill Kerr spending all day in bed, and decides to find him a job. But with Sid James involved, things were always going to get complicated.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score re-recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Margaret Cabourn-Smith. The Counterfeiter was never recorded by the original team, and the cast and crew of The Missing Hancocks are proud to present a Hancock premiere.

Produced by Neil Pearson & Hayley Sterling.

Written by Ray Galton & Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

A BBC Studios Production.

Hancock tries to find Bill a job. But with a little help from Sid, all he finds is trouble

0407The Christmas Eve Party2021122120231226 (R4)

The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson as one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show were missing from the BBC archives. Now, after four highly successful series, the final batch of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

Tonight's episode: When Hancock throws a noisy party his neighbours, full of the Christmas spirit, take him to court.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score re-recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Margaret Cabourn-Smith. The Christmas Eve Party was first broadcast on the 28th December, 1954.

Produced by Neil Pearson & Paul Sheehan.

Written by Ray Galton & Alan Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

A BBC Studios Production.

This programme was first broadcast in December 2021

Hancock throws a Christmas party and finds himself in court.

Long-lost, classic Tony Hancock comedies, freshly recorded and starring Kevin McNally.

When Hancock throws a noisy party his neighbours, full of the Christmas spirit, take him to court.

0407The Christmas Eve Party2021122120211228/29 (BBC7)
 (BBC7)
The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson as one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show were missing from the BBC archives. Now, after four highly successful series, the final batch of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

Tonight's episode: When Hancock throws a noisy party his neighbours, full of the Christmas spirit, take him to court.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score re-recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Margaret Cabourn-Smith. The Christmas Eve Party was first broadcast on the 28th December, 1954.

Produced by Neil Pearson & Paul Sheehan.

Written by Ray Galton & Alan Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

A BBC Studios Production.

This programme was first broadcast in December 2021

Hancock throws a Christmas party and finds himself in court.

0408New Year Resolutions2020123120210107/08 (BBC7)
/06 (BBC7)
/04 (BBC7)
The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive.

The first modern sitcom, Hancock's Half Hour made stars of Tony Hancock, Sid James and Kenneth Williams, and launched Ray Galton and Alan Simpson as one of the most successful comedy-writing partnerships in history. But 20 episodes of the show were missing from the BBC archives. Now, after four highly successful series, the final batch of those episodes have been lovingly re-recorded in front of a live audience at the BBC Radio Theatre.

Tonight's episode: Hancock announces his list of New Year Resolutions, and is confident he can stick to them. Bill Kerr is equally confident that this is a money-making opportunity.

Written by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, and with the classic score re-recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the show stars Kevin McNally, Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian and Susy Kane, and with a special guest appearance by Paul Merton. New Year's Resolutions was first broadcast on the 4th January, 1956.

Produced by Neil Pearson & Hayley Sterling.

Written by Ray Galton & Alan Simpson

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian

A BBC Studios Production

Hancock is determined to keep to his New Year Resolutions. It doesn't go well.

Hancock announces his New Year Resolutions, confident he can stick to them. It doesn't go well. Bill Kerr is equally confident that this is a money-making opportunity.

Starring Kevin McNally, The Missing Hancocks recreates those episodes of the classic Hancock's Half Hour that have been wiped or lost from the archive.

Cast:

Hancock - Kevin McNally

With: Kevin Eldon, Simon Greenall, Robin Sebastian, Susy Kane and a special guest appearance by Paul Merton.

Written by Ray Galton & Alan Simpson.

Music recorded by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Levon Parikian.

A BBC Studios Production first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2020.

The Lad announces his New Year Resolutions - confident he can stick to them. It doesn't go well. Stars Kevin McNally. From 2020.