Fans of British comedy are in for a treat, as ‘Fawlty Towers: The Play’ will make its UK television debut on U&GOLD this September, arriving on the very day the classic sitcom first aired 50 years ago. The recording, captured during the show’s acclaimed West End run, will premiere exclusively on the channel and be available on demand via Sky, Virgin Media and NOW.
Written by series co-creator and star John Cleese, ‘Fawlty Towers: The Play’ takes three of the sitcom’s most iconic episodes – The Hotel Inspector, The Germans and Communication Problems – and weaves them into one riotous stage experience. Since opening in May 2024, the production has played to record-breaking sell-out crowds in London and will embark on a UK and Ireland tour later this year.
The cast features Adam Jackson-Smith (Call the Midwife) as the eternally flustered Basil Fawlty, Anna-Jane Casey (Everyone’s Talking About Jamie) as Sybil, Victoria Fox (Brief Encounter) as Polly, Hemi Yeroham (The Archers) as Manuel and Paul Nicholas (Just Good Friends) as the Major.
Reflecting on the play’s success, John Cleese said:
“I’ve been overwhelmed by the wonderful response to Fawlty Towers: The Play since its debut in the West End and it’s a pleasure to hear U&Gold will be bringing it straight to everyone’s living rooms just in time for the 50th anniversary.”
Gerald Casey, director of programming, comedy and entertainment at U&GOLD, added:
“Fawlty Towers is a cornerstone of British comedy, and we’re honoured to be the first place TV audiences can watch this new stage version to mark the show’s 50th anniversary. With the legendary John Cleese at the helm, U&GOLD viewers are really in for something special.”
Critical reception has been glowing, with The Times calling it “a hugely entertaining blast of unadorned nostalgia”, The Guardian hailing it as “comedy history repeats itself”, and The i praising Cleese for recreating “the magic”.
‘Fawlty Towers: The Play’ premieres Friday, 19th September 2025 at 9pm on U&GOLD, and will also be available on demand via Sky, Virgin Media and NOW.
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