UKTV’s Gold gets Monty Python live show

UKTV channel Gold will air a forthcoming stage show from reunited comedy troupe Monty Python as its first major live event broadcast.

Monty Python Live (Mostly: One Down, Five to Go will broadcast live from London’s O2 Arena on Sunday, July 20. It marks the first time in UK channel provider UKTV’s two-decade history it has run a live event broadcast.

It will begin with a live backstage programme from Phil McIntyre Television, and culminate with the live show. The runtime will three hours.

“It’s a huge step in Gold’s evolution to be part of such a significant national event and to be broadcasting it live so that everyone can be there,” said UKTV director of commissioning Richard Watsham.

“Monty Python is arguably the most influential comedy group the country has ever known and it’s a matter of great pride that they’ve trusted us with celebrating their very last night together.”

Concurrently, UKTV has commissioned an as-yet untitled five-part series from Phil McIntyre in association with Python (Monty) Pictures, which will celebrate the Python team and their effect on the comedy world.

This comes just a week after UKTV restructured its channel manager team, with Gold general manager Steve North’s remit expanded to include free-to-air digital channel Watch.

The Monty Python reunion sees the five remaining Python members reuniting for the first time in more than four decades for ten shows at the O2 in July.

“What could be finer at the end of a long life in comedy, than a chance to reunite with old pals and say goodbye to all our fans in one final mad musical show,” said Python member Eric Idle. “We are very excited that not only do we get the chance to screw up on stage, we get a chance to screw up live on TV too.”