TV series
A British television comedy series, written by Michael Palin and Terry Jones of Monty Python fame. Following an initial pilot episode in January 1976, it ran for two subsequent series of five and three episodes in October 1977 and October 1979 respectively. Each episode had a different setting and characters, looking at a different aspect of British culture and parodying pre-World War II literature aimed at schoolboys.
Streaming, rental and purchase options
Checked Jul 22, 2026
Ripping Yarns is available to stream on Britbox (Via Amazon Prime) in United States. Use the direct links below to open the provider.
A British television comedy series, written by Michael Palin and Terry Jones of Monty Python fame. Following an initial pilot episode in January 1976, it ran for two subsequent series of five and three episodes in October 1977 and October 1979 respectively. Each episode had a different setting and characters, looking at a different aspect of British culture and parodying pre-World War II literature aimed at schoolboys.
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Episode 1
Dashing, debonair Gerald Whinfrey saves his country twice a week. But in 1913 a German plot - to start the First World War without telling anyone - coincides with his holiday. Where will Whinfrey's priorities lie? A knock-about tale of international intrigue.
Directed by Alan J.W. BellWritten by Terry Jones, Michael PalinGuest stars Michael Palin, Antony Carrick, Edward Hardwicke, Gerald Sim
Episode 2
A rare look at football fanaticism in the 1930s. Superfan Gordon Ottershaw supports a team which has not won a match for six years. But worse is to come. Will their tragedy bring Gordon's triumph? Or not? These are some of the questions this film hopes to answer. Or not.
Directed by Alan J.W. BellWritten by Terry Jones, Michael PalinGuest stars John Cleese, Danny O'Dea
Episode 3
Pubescent Roger Bartlesham comes of age in the turbulent India of 60 years ago, when circumstances beyond his control drive him towards the most deplorable act known to the British Army.
Directed by Jim FranklinWritten by Terry Jones, Michael PalinGuest stars Richard Vernon, Joan Sanderson, Roger Brierley, John Le Mesurier, Jan Francis, Allan Cuthbertson, David Griffin, Michael Palin
Episode information updated Jul 24, 2026
Michael Palin
John Phillips
Candace Glendenning
Ian Ogilvy
Anita CareyIrene Olthwaite
Gwen Watford
Roland MacLeod
Roy Kinnear
BBC OneUnited KingdomMore shows like Ripping Yarns.
