Join me as I dig into the dusty archives to remember a US import that landed on UK screens in a very unusual way: Big John, Little John.

This week, we explore this short-lived sitcom about a 40-year-old science teacher who accidentally drinks from the Fountain of Youth and keeps turning into his 12-year-old self. It was a show that flipped the classic "I wish I was a kid again" trope on its head, showing the hilarious chaos that ensues when you have no control over the change.

We'll discuss its unique premise, the "Cousin Oliver effect" thanks to its young star Robbie Rist, and why this gently funny show, shown in the UK before the US, only lasted one season. It was a show that was perhaps too mature for kids, but not quite right for adults, yet it remains a fond memory for those of us who caught it after school in 1976.

There's still time to get your questions in for our special listener-contributed Christmas quiz! Submit your best 70s TV trivia to [email protected].

Take care, 

Oliver

Connect with us:

• Blog: https://my70stvchildhood.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/my70stvchildhood
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/my70stvchildhood/
• X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/home

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@my70stvchildhood

Get in touch!

Support the show