Eric Sykes’ Christmas Special Returns Just in Time for His 100th Birthday
The beloved Christmas Day 1979 special is making a comeback! ITVX will start streaming the episode from 30th April, just days before what would have been Eric Sykes’ 100th birthday on 4th May. ITV3 will also broadcast the classic on the same day.
Behind the Scenes: Eric’s Surprise Appearance
Eric Sykes shared a memorable story about the episode in his autobiography, If I Don’t Write It, Nobody Else Will… He was tricked into coming to the New 1 Theatre for a press interview—only to be met by host Eamonn Andrews holding a big red book. The surprise caught him off guard but led to a legendary tribute.
Star-Studded Tribute to a Comedy Legend
The 45-minute special is packed with heartfelt tributes from showbiz giants. Names like Bill Fraser, Tommy Cooper, Frankie Howerd, Max Bygraves, Spike Milligan, Johnny Speight, Harry Secombe, Zsa Zsa Gabor, and Sean Connery all paid their respects to Eric Sykes.
Plus: Classic Comedy The Plank Hits ITVX
Starting 1st April, ITVX will also offer The Plank, another Eric Sykes gem. Written, directed, and starring Sykes himself, the comedy classic features fellow legends Tommy Cooper, Jimmy Edwards, and Roy Castle.
