School's Out Forever

Wed Feb 06 01:50PM by TV Editor

Todd Carty

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The BBC has announced that it is to axe long-running children's drama series Grange Hill.

Grange Hill, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this Friday (nice timing!), will not be recommissioned after the current series ends.

Speaking about the decision, CBBC Controller Anne Gilchrist said: "The lives of children have changed a great deal since Grange Hill began and we owe it to them to reflect this."

The series has tackled controversial issues such as teenage pregnancy, racism and, most famously, drug abuse during its 30-year-run.

The Zammo Maguire drugs storyline in the '80s even spawned the infamous charity single Just Say No.

The series also helped launch the careers of the likes of Todd Carty, Susan Tully and Michelle Gayle - and a teenage Naomi Campbell even popped up as an extra.

Last month the show's creator Phil Redmond called for the show to be scrapped over plans to move away from hard-hitting storylines in a bid to appeal to younger viewers. His prayers have been answered!

Will you be sad to see the end of Grange Hill? Who are your favourite characters and what are your memories of the series?

- Read about Tucker's Luck and more TV spin-offs

- Watch an interview with two Grange Hill stars

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User comments

  • (71)

    Mark Savages` brilliant portrayal of Gripper Stebson. Still revered 20 years on. Come on BBC. Mark would be a brilliant baddie for Eastenders! Grange Hill a cult classic!

    Posted by: ericbannerman1966 on Wed Feb 06 05:47PM | Report abuse
  • (72)

    k

    Posted by: ericbannerman1966 on Wed Feb 06 05:47PM | Report abuse
  • (73)

    Grange Hill was good in my day, watched it from the start. Not as good since it suddenly moved to Liverpool. Remember 'Bridget the Midget'!

    Posted by: karenholliday on Wed Feb 06 05:53PM | Report abuse
  • (74)

    I loved Grange Hill when it started and especially the character of Tucker. However, my children don't watch it so maybe it is time it was retired. Let it remain a happy memory of our childhood.

    Posted by: ang.m.james on Wed Feb 06 05:58PM | Report abuse
  • (75)

    I'm sure many teachers are thrilled that this Pupil Power Program is disappearing.

    Posted by: john.broughall on Wed Feb 06 05:59PM | Report abuse
  • (76)

    I used to think Tucker was great and good looking Oh Dear. Great Program what happened to Roland?

    Posted by: klbowman on Wed Feb 06 05:59PM | Report abuse
  • (77)

    I grew up with Tucker, Benny the lot. The programme is only six years older than I am.I used to think it wa a real school that I could possible attend it semed so real.

    Posted by: swilliamscisco on Wed Feb 06 06:01PM | Report abuse
  • (78)

    i remember when it was bbc1 and now it has been moved to cbbc. Big mistake ever moving it that is why it has lost so many member's. Remember they have also axed having Neighbours on the same channel. They will probably put another children's programme that is a complete and utter flop anf the best ones loose out.

    Posted by: matthewcurtis90 on Wed Feb 06 06:01PM | Report abuse
  • (79)

    Bring back Roland...

    Posted by: rmerrick74 on Wed Feb 06 06:06PM | Report abuse
  • (80)

    my grandma was one of the ones to campaign against the whole programme when it started. I remember we cousins secretly talking about every episode but also wishing to respect our grandma's wishes and always looked disgusted "for her" whenever she was ranting! great memories

    Posted by: jollylauralady on Wed Feb 06 06:10PM | Report abuse