Porridge (1973)

TV sitcom
BBC One / BBC Two
1973 - 1977
21 episodes (3 series)

Ronnie Barker stars as Norman Stanley Fletcher, trying to keep his nose clean and guiding his young 'roomie' Godber, whilst residing in HMP Slade. Stars Ronnie Barker, Richard Beckinsale, Fulton Mackay, Brian Wilde, Michael Barrington and more.

Series 3, Episode 1 repeated Sunday at 12:20am on BBC4

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29th August: Porridge celebrated via Royal Mail stamps

Some other productions also have this name.

Porridge. Image shows from L to R: Fletcher (Ronnie Barker), Godber (Richard Beckinsale). Copyright: BBC

Genre

Sitcom

Broadcast

1973 - 1977

Channels

BBC 1, BBC 2

Episodes

21 (1 pilot + 3 series)

Stars

Ronnie Barker, Richard Beckinsale, Fulton Mackay, Brian Wilde, Michael Barrington, Brian Glover, Christopher Biggins, Ronald Lacey and more

Writers

Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais

Director

Sydney Lotterby

Producer

Sydney Lotterby

Company

Set in Slade Prison, Porridge documents the life of Norman Stanley Fletcher, an habitual criminal.

Fletcher is a smart, witty, cunning and loveable character. He shares his cell with young Lennie Godber, a first time inmate upon whom he imparts his considerable wisdom and knowledge of the penal system and how to cope. The pair must contend with troublesome fellow cons, harsh wardens, unwitting mishaps and the regular stresses of prison life, keeping their heads above water without getting on the wrong side of their jailers.

Fletch's wing is headed by the strict Scottish screw Mr Mackay, assisted by the far more easy-going - and somewhat exploitable - Mr Barrowclough.