Image Text:

AUTHENTIC TELLY: Some 'Real McCoy' cast members - from left - Curtis Walker, Llewella Gideon, the late Collette Johnson and Ishmael Thomas

AS PART of their 'Race Through the Decades' collection, digital download service BBC Store has announced that series one of popular 1990s comedy series 'The Real McCoy' is available from today.

The Voice Newspaper and ardent fans of the hit show have long-campaigned for a commercial release of The Real McCoy and having resolved legal issues with the shows original writers, BBC Store has made it available to buy. To get a copy, click here.

The Voice understands that efforts are now underway to secure the rights for the remaining four series.

Aaron Bhamra, head of editorial at BBC Store said:

“We’re thrilled to be able to make the first series of The Real McCoy available on BBC Store.

“We know how much comedy enthusiasts have wanted to see it and we did of course take note of The Voice’s campaign for it to be released. 

COMEDIC CLASH: From left - Meera Syal and the late Collette Johnson on-set

"I’m sure the series will now find a whole raft of new fans alongside those who enjoyed it first time round and of course now as a digital download, viewers will be able to watch anytime and anywhere.

“We’re working hard to secure the rights to the other four series and hope soon to be able to release the complete The Real McCoy on BBC Store.”

The first series of the BBC2 comedy show showcased a new generation of black and Asian comics and talented performers including Curtis Walker, Robbie Gee and Llewella Gideon and introduced TV audiences to Meera Syal and Kulvinder Ghir; paving the way for Goodness Gracious Me.

The popularity of the sketch and stand-up show, known for some of its character based comedy and topical skits, meant that a further four series were commissioned. Fans have been calling for the series to have a commercial release, as it was never made available.

The Race Through the Decades collection is BBC Store’s first look at six decades of drama and comedy that has reflected a changing Britain. Charting the rising voices of the country’s black and Asian communities, it’s tells the story of Britain’s journey towards a multicultural society.

HEROES: From left - Curtis Walker and Ishmael Thompson

Bhamra said:

“This snapshot of programmes from the past 50 years provides an insight into how attitudes towards black and Asian groups on TV have shifted from being rarely seen to creating and starring in mainstream hit shows.

"The collection boasts some gripping performances, outstanding writing and hilarious comedy.”

Have a laugh with some of The Voice's favourite Real McCoy clips:

Read every story in our hardcopy newspaper for free by downloading the app.