Monty Python's Flying Circus (1969): episodes, history and where to watch

AT A GLANCE

Monty Python's Flying Circus first went out in October 1969 on BBC One. It ran until 1974, with 4 series and 45 episodes so far. Where it streams changes often, so check the official services before paying for one.

comedy
surreal
british
More from the 1960s

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Why it is worth your time

Dead parrots, silly walks, the Spanish Inquisition and sketches that refuse to end with a punchline. It changed comedy on both sides of the Atlantic.

The details

First broadcast: 5 October 1969
Originally on: BBC One
On air: 1969–1974
Series: 4
Episodes: 45
Typical length: 30 minutes
Genres: Comedy
First episode: “Whither Canada?”

Watching it the official way

Older programmes move between broadcasters, streaming services and DVD releases as rights are sold and resold. Paying the rights holder keeps archives alive and pays the people who made them.

The BritCast TV library changes with sources and rights, so we never promise a title before checking. Ask us and we will look, or try a day free and search for yourself.

Monty Python's Flying Circus: quick answers

When did Monty Python's Flying Circus start?

On 5 October 1969, on BBC One.

How many episodes of Monty Python's Flying Circus are there?

45 had been broadcast by 14 October 2026, across 4 series. The last aired in 1974.

Where can I watch Monty Python's Flying Circus now?

Rights to older programmes move between services and channels; check BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4 and the main streaming services, or buy it on DVD or digitally.

Dates and episode counts from TVmaze (2026-10-14), CC BY-SA 4.0. Artwork © its owners, shown only to identify the programme.