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90s hit teen drama Byker Grove returns to screens after 20 years
90s teen drama Byker Grove is making a surprise return to screens, nearly 20 years after the final episode aired.
Fans can now stream the full series for the first time in the UK on STV Player and on ITVX later this year – as part of a co-exclusivity deal with Mitre Studios.
Originally launched on BBC One in 1989, Byker Grove became a much-loved after school programme for millions of teenagers growing up in the 90s and noughties.
Set in the Byker area of Newcastle, the series followed the lives and relationships of a group of young people who spent their down time at local youth club, the Grove.
The show tackled challenging social issues of the time, including drug addiction, child abuse, homophobia and abortion.
In 1994, the series broadcast the first gay kiss on UK children's TV, when character Noddy Fishwick kissed close friend Gary Hendrix at the cinema.
Byker Grove also helped launch the acting careers of many young people, including Ant and Dec, Jill Halfpenny and Donna Air.
The show was also credited with training many behind-the-scenes talent.
Former writer, Catherine Johnson, went on to pen hit musical Mamma Mia! and Tom Hooper, who directed episodes in 1997, later won the Academy Award for Best Director for his work on The King's Speech.
Richard Williams, who is STV's Managing Director for Audience: Video and Technology, said it was exciting to be bringing back 'one of the seminal TV shows of the decade'.
'Byker Grove was an integral part of so many British childhoods and we're delighted that those original viewers – now of a slightly more mature vintage – can relive all the nostalgic action," he said.
"And if any Gen Z viewers want to find out who really started the baggy trousers trend, look no further than Byker Grove!'
Byker Grove is available to stream for free on STV Player and will become available on ITVX later this year.
