After an astonishing 47 years gracing screens, the iconic sitcom Dad’s Army has abruptly disappeared from streaming platform NOW TV, leaving scores of its fans in a state of bewilderment and disappointment.
The series, a stalwart of British humour, portrayed the comical exploits of ageing Home Guard members defending the fictional coastline town of Walmington-on-Sea during the Second World War. Launching to Britains television audience in 1968 and culminating in 1977, the BBC show transmitted more than 80 episodes and with an average viewership of 18 million people, it continues to be lauded as a classic television treasure.
Enthusiasts of the show have taken their grievances online, with one despondent fan on Reddit stating: “Dad’s Army now gone from Now TV. Pity.” Another joined the discussion, offering some advice for those hunting for the series: “Looks like it’s on ITVX premium, not worth paying for that. Luckily you can get the complete collection on DVD for under £10 in good condition,” the Express reported.
Meanwhile, highlighting an alternative route to enjoy the beloved programme, another astute fan remarked: “All episodes are on YouTube. Sometimes you need to watch Dutch subtitles, but who cares! It makes it more fun.”
In pursuit of an explanation, Daily Record has reached out to a spokesperson for the BBC and NOW TV, anticipating further clarification on the development.
Dad’s Army featured a memorable cast, including the likes of Ian Lavender as the clumsy Private Pike, Clive Dunn’s portrayal of Lance Corporal Jones, Arthur Lowe as Captain George Mainwaring, Arnold Ridley playing the kind-hearted Private Charles Godfrey, John Laurie as the pessimistic Private Frazer, and John Le Mesurier who embodied Sergeant Arthur Wilson.
In February of this year, we mourned the loss of Ian, the final surviving member of this distinguished ensemble. Dad’s Army’s official outlets shared the news of his passing with a heartfelt tribute to his legacy on the show.
Ian was just 22 when he joined the Dad’s Army crew, securing his place in the annals of comedy history in 1968. The beloved series made the leap to the big screen in 1971, starring the original television lineup. The classic sitcom experienced a revival in 2016, introducing Toby Jones as Captain Mainwaring and Bill Nighy as Sergeant Wilson to a new audience.
In other news, Dad’s Army hit the headlines last month when David Jason disclosed that he had been let go from the show, surprising many fans. Before reaching stardom with Only Fools and Horses, Sir David Jason faced some setbacks in his career.
The veteran actor, now 84, was dismissed from Dad’s Army after just three hours on set. Recounting the experience to the Express, he said: “I was cast at 12 o’clock and sacked by three.”
David believed he’d landed his big opportunity when he tried out for the part of Lance Corporal Jones in Dad’s Army. He managed to impress show creators Jimmy Perry and David Croft, who were eager to bring him on board.
However, he didn’t manage to win over BBC boss Bill Cotton, who opted for Clive Dunn instead.