Ant and Dec’s “nostalgic” coming-of-age drama gets new free UK streaming home

As a nostalgic gamer, I’m thrilled to announce that the classic coming-of-age drama, Byker Grove, has found a new, cost-free streaming platform in the United Kingdom. It’s like stepping back into my gaming console and revisiting an old favorite game!

Making its debut on BBC One in 1989, the television program catapulted Ant and Dec into stardom, as they portrayed their characters, PJ and Duncan, on the show.

Located in the Byker district of Newcastle upon Tyne, the ’90s cult favorite delves into the personal journeys and connections among a circle of young individuals who frequently hang out at their neighborhood community center, known as The Grove.

The popular teen series often addressed complex societal matters through its narratives, dealing with themes such as substance abuse, prejudice against LGBTQ+ individuals, and the topic of termination of pregnancy.

1994 saw a groundbreaking event when the show aired the first same-sex kiss on British kids’ television, as characters Noddy Fishwick and Gary Hendrix exchanged a tender moment during a movie date at the cinema.

As a nostalgic fan, I’m thrilled to share that after nearly two decades since its last episode aired, “Byker Grove” is now accessible for free streaming on STV Player! This gives UK viewers like me an opportunity to revisit all the drama once more. Excitingly, it’s also set to appear on ITVX’s streaming service later this year.

Richard Williams, STV’s managing director, commented: “It seemed like the ’90s comeback could be tapering off, but surprise! We’ve resurrected one of the iconic television series from that decade.

Byker Grove played a significant role in countless British childhood memories, and it’s exciting to know that our grown-up fans can revisit the nostalgia through STV Player.

If you Gen Z viewers are curious about who kick-started the baggy pants trend, your search ends here with Byker Grove!

Craig Morris, ITV Channels & ITVX’s managing editor, stated: “We can hardly wait to debut this legendary coming-of-age series on ITVX! It signifies the initial small-screen appearances of two longtime ITV favorites. Join us in revisiting those memorable scenes later in the year.

In February of last year, Ant and Dec gave fans an update on the anticipated Byker Grove reboot.

In the initial stages, we’re working on shaping it, exploring various plotlines, creating characters, and building the setting. The potential for what it could become is vast, offering numerous possibilities, as Dec explained during that period.

Ant added: “There’s some very juicy roles going in it.”

Byker Grove is now streaming on STV Player.

The latest print edition from Digital Spy, titled “Oasis – Live in ’25”, is available! You can purchase it at your local newsstands or online for only £8.99.

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2025-07-14 18:49