The last ever performance by the surviving members of Monty Python has given record audiences to Gold.
Over 700,000 viewers tuned in, according to overnight audience figures, making it the highest ever rating commission for the UKTV channel.
Stephen Hawking and Mike Myers made special appearances in the three-hour live broadcast, which included a backstage programme including Steve Coogan, Brian Cox and Warwick Davies, and presented by Dara O Briain, followed by the Python’s stage show finale.
Steve North, General Manager for Gold said: “Last night was not only a defining moment in the history of Monty Python; it was also a defining moment for Gold. I’m immensely proud that Gold has been able to bring such a momentous occasion to our viewers, live, as it happened. It was a tremendous achievement by everybody involved and it marks the next step in Gold’s evolution.”
Gold is following last night’s live broadcast with a special five-part series in the autumn, produced by Phil McIntyre Television in association with Python (Monty) Pictures Ltd, which will celebrate the nation’s favourite Monty Python’s Flying Circus sketches and the effect they have had on the comedy world.
