Unseen episode of one of Britain’s best-loved BBC comedies will air for the first time in 40 years

AN unseen episode of one of Britain’s best-loved comedies will air for the first time in 40 years.

The BBC‘s iconic series Blackadder will make a return to television with a special episode.

Blackadder’s 40th anniversary is this month and to mark the milestone UKTV channel Gold is airing two documentaries.

The show, which starred Sir Tony Robinson, is often cited as Britain’s best comedy show.

Rowan Atkinson will also be forever remembered for his portrayal of Edmund Blackadder, the grumpy, sarcastic anti-hero constantly scheming for power.

Blackadder: The Lost Pilot will see Tony, 76, uncover the never before seen pilot episode.

Teasing the documentary, Gold said: “Tony’s journey takes him back in time to find out where Blackadder really began, and to uncover the story of the never-before-broadcast 1982 Blackadder pilot episode.

“It’s a personal story for Tony – Baldrick has defined his career and playing the character transformed his life. But Tony didn’t play Baldrick in the pilot [Philip Fox did]. And there’s so much about Blackadder’s beginnings he doesn’t know.

The show will come to an end with the pilot episode being screened for viewers to enjoy.

Continuing with the festivities, Gold will broadcast episodes from all four series throughout the month of June.

Speaking about the special show, Sir Tony said: “Blackadder holds a special place in the nation’s heart and in mine too.

“I’m delighted to be part of its 40th Birthday celebrations on Gold. It’s been wonderful to journey back to where it all began and chat to some of the biggest names in comedy who made it all happen.”

The episode will air on Thursday, June 15 from 9pm on Gold.