BACK IN THE DAY: The cast of The Real McCoy in their early days
THE PRESSURE is mounting for the BBC, following the launch of The Voice’s campaign for the broadcaster to re-run The Real McCoy.
Since our front page story last week (May 3-9), in which we called for the return or a DVD release of the beloved black British comedy – which was written by talents such as Leo Muhammad, Felix Dexter and Llewella Gideon – we have been overwhelmed with emails of support from our readers.
Clearly missed since it came off air in 1996, The Real McCoy has since been the source of much debate and discussion within the black community, with many feeling frustrated as to why the sitcom was never repeated on the BBC or released as a DVD.
So The Voice is continuing the campaign to get the programme re-run or available to purchase on DVD, or, at the very least, to get some answers as to why these options have yet to be explored by the BBC.
Please keep your views coming. Email your thoughts to: davina.hamilton@gvmedia.co.uk
Here is some of the feedback we’ve received from readers so far.
* I read your piece regarding the debate over The Real McCoy and would love to lend our vote in your campaign to both BBC releasing it on DVD and airing it on TV. In fact, why is it not up for licence to air on other stations such OHTV? Thank you for reigniting the debate on this.
Jide Oriogun, director of the Black Cinema Club
DEBATE: Cast members talked about the show’s legacy
* I’ve just read the article in The Voice regarding The Real McCoy. I think it would be great if the Beeb produced a DVD of the series. I used to watch it with many of my friends, black and white, and found it very funny! I would love to buy it for my mum for Christmas!!
Fraser Paul, via email
* I would LOVE to see a rerun of the show, also for the series to be available on DVD. And I am not the only one wishing for this.
If you look on Facebook you’ll see how many people have The Real McCoy down as their favourite programme – as if the programme is still running. The BBC need more programmes like this, and we are way behind America when it comes to these type of programmes.
Nathaniel D, via email
* I would love a DVD of The Real McCoy.
I thoroughly enjoyed the programme when it was on the BBC and I can say it was something that I looked forward to. My family and friends enjoyed sharing the jokes and we felt in touch with in our culture.
Nadine Francis, via email
* I am one of the many who does not understand why this series has not been released on DVD. I would certainly buy it if it was available.
Vanessa Barker, via email