Duration
35 minutes
Series Info
Season 3 Episode 2

Quick Summary

In this classic comedy episode of British TV, Miss Jones falls for a budding playwright who promises her the starring role in his latest masterpiece, delivering witty banter and romantic mishaps with Leonard Rossiter and guest star Peter Bowles. The programme highlights a charming mix of drama and entertainment perfect for UK viewers, offering a quick overview at a glance for any television guide episode. That’s TV (MCR) programming brings the series to life with fresh humour for UK television audiences.

About This Program

Programme overview Stage Struck is a classic comedy episode that first aired in the early 1970s, starring the in‑imitable Leonard Rossiter as the harried Miss Jones and featuring guest star Peter Bowles as the ambitious playwright. The story follows Miss Jones, a dedicated theatre usher who unexpectedly catches the eye of a budding writer offering her the starring role in his latest masterpiece. The episode blends witty dialogue with far‑cical situations, delivering a timeless piece of British TV that still feels fresh for today’s UK viewers. What to expect from the content Viewers can anticipate a tightly scripted half‑hour of entertainment that balances slapstick humour with clever wordplay. Rossiter’s dead‑pan delivery anchors the chaos as Miss Jones navigates rehearsals, jealous co‑actors, and the playwright’s eccentric demands. Bowles brings a suave, self‑confident charm that heightens the romantic tension, while the supporting cast adds layers of comic misunderstanding. The episode’s pacing is brisk, with each scene building toward a satisfying climax that resolves both the theatrical and romantic plotlines. Key features and highlights The episode showcases several hallmark features of classic British TV: a strong ensemble cast, period‑appropriate set design, and a script that satirises the theatre world without losing heart. Notable highlights include Rossiter’s iconic line about “the stage being a cruel mistress” and Bowles’s flamboyant rehearsal monologue that has become a favourite quote among fans. The production values, from the lighting to the costume details, reflect the high standards of 1970s drama, making Stage Struck a valuable reference point for students of television history. Why this programme appeals to UK audiences Stage Struck resonates with UK audiences because it captures the quintessential British love of theatre and the underdog narrative that many find relatable. The humour is distinctly British, relying on understatement, irony and a touch of self‑deprecation that appeals to viewers who enjoy sophisticated comedy. Moreover, the episode offers full details of a bygone era of television, providing an in‑depth review of performance styles that influenced later sitcoms. Its blend of romance, ambition and workplace antics makes it a perfect fit for anyone seeking quality entertainment within the British TV canon. Context within That's TV (MCR) programming That’s TV (MCR) often curates classic series and episodes that highlight the richness of UK television heritage, and Stage Struck fits seamlessly into this remit. As part of the channel’s dedicated retro slot, the episode is presented alongside other landmark dramas and documentaries, offering a comprehensive guide for viewers exploring the evolution of British comedy. By featuring Stage Struck, That's TV (MCR) reinforces its commitment to delivering a varied programme schedule that celebrates both timeless entertainment and the cultural significance of classic series for contemporary UK viewers.

Rising Damp broadcasts on That's TV at 1:00pm, Sunday, 21 September 2025.