ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Lost Morecambe and Wise episode from 1968 found in private collection

cultural-heritage · 2026-04-24

An episode of Morecambe and Wise, which first aired on 16 September 1968, has been found in a private collection and is set to air on the BBC in the upcoming months. This episode includes sketches such as a balloon dancer and a scene set in a nudist camp, showcasing the era's 'permissive society.' Although the surviving copy is in black and white, the original was in color, and restoration is feasible. Film is Fabulous! (FIF), a charitable organization led by film enthusiasts, located the episode. Prof Justin Smith from De Montfort University, who leads FIF, noted that the show captures the duo 'in their prime,' characterized by their trademark wit and fast-paced humor. This episode is one of four missing from the series, preserved by a now-deceased industry professional.

Key facts

  • Lost Morecambe and Wise episode from 1968 rediscovered
  • Originally broadcast on 16 September 1968
  • Features sketches including a nudist camp and balloon dancer
  • Surviving copy is black and white, original was colour
  • Found by Film is Fabulous! (FIF) charitable trust
  • Prof Justin Smith of De Montfort University involved
  • BBC to broadcast in coming months
  • One of four missing episodes from the series

Entities

Artists

  • Eric Morecambe
  • Ernie Wise

Institutions

  • BBC
  • Film is Fabulous!
  • De Montfort University
  • ATV

Locations

  • Leicester
  • United Kingdom

Sources