Season 2 • Episode 13
LatestThe death of disreputable old Uncle Jacob is received by the Collier family with a mixture of regret and relief. The funeral gives Bob an insight into his future.
Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads? is a British sitcom which was broadcast between 9 January 1973 and 9 April 1974 on BBC1. It was the colour sequel to the mid-1960s hit The Likely Lads. It was created and written, as was its predecessor, by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais. There were 26 television episodes over two series; and a subsequent 45-minute Christmas special was aired on 24 December 1974. The cast were reunited in 1975 for a BBC radio adaptation of series 1, transmitted on Radio 4 from July to October that year. In 1976, a feature film spin-off was made. Around the time of its release, however, Rodney Bewes and James Bolam fell out over a misunderstanding involving the press and have not spoken since. This long-suspected situation was finally confirmed by Bewes while promoting his autobiography in 2005. Unlike Bewes, Bolam is consistently reluctant to talk about the show, and has vetoed any attempt to revive his character.
Writing
Clement & La Frenais at peak bittersweet — every joke lands with a sigh.
Acting
Bewes and Bolam's chemistry now reads as genuinely haunted.
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The show captures 1970s Britain's class anxiety perfectly — Terry's fear of being 'left behind' as Bob climbs socially still resonates.
Bewes revealed in 2005 that he and Bolam haven't spoken since 1976; Bolam reportedly still refuses to discuss the show, making every onscreen hug feel loaded with real grief.
No ratings yet
Sign in to join the discussion — comments are spoiler-gated to your watch progress.
Discussion starters
GB
