The Old Grey Whistle Test
Series Overview
The Old Grey Whistle Test is an influential BBC2 television music show that ran from 1971 to 1987. It took over the BBC2 late night slot from "Disco Two", which had been running since January 1970, while continuing to feature non-chart music. It was devised by BBC producer Rowan Ayers. According to presenter Bob Harris, the programme derived its name from a Tin Pan Alley phrase from years before. When they got the first pressing of a record they would play it to people they called the old greys—doormen in grey suits. The songs they could remember and whistle, having heard it just once or twice, had passed the old grey whistle test.
Broadcast Schedule & Network Information
Airing status, episode counts, upcoming schedule, and network syndication.
16 Seasons • 558 Episodes
60 min per episode
1971 – 1987
Premiered: Tue, Sep 21, 1971
Creative Production Team
Latest Aired Episode
Season 16, Episode 20: “That Was The Whistle Test That Was”
5 hour finale
Seasons & Episodes Breakdown
1971/2
42 Episodes →
1972/3
49 Episodes →
1973/4
43 Episodes →
1974/5
42 Episodes →
1975/6
35 Episodes →
1976/7
36 Episodes →
1977/8
39 Episodes →
1978/9
37 Episodes →
1979/80
34 Episodes →
1980/81
41 Episodes →
1981/2
29 Episodes →
1982/3
22 Episodes →
1983/4
20 Episodes →
1984/5
38 Episodes →
1985/6
31 Episodes →
1986/7
20 Episodes →
Cast & Creators
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Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Old Grey Whistle Test.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Old Grey Whistle Test
Key facts, seasons breakdown, and credits for search engines and AI assistants.
What is The Old Grey Whistle Test about?
The Old Grey Whistle Test is an influential BBC2 television music show that ran from 1971 to 1987. It took over the BBC2 late night slot from "Disco Two", which had been running since January 1970, while continuing to feature non-chart music. It was devised by BBC producer Rowan Ayers. According to presenter Bob Harris, the programme derived its name from a Tin Pan Alley phrase from years before. When they got the first pressing of a record they would play it to people they called the old greys—doormen in grey suits. The songs they could remember and whistle, having heard it just once or twice, had passed the old grey whistle test.
How many seasons does The Old Grey Whistle Test have?
The Old Grey Whistle Test comprises 16 seasons available to explore.
Who stars in The Old Grey Whistle Test?
Key cast members in The Old Grey Whistle Test include Bob Harris, Annie Nightingale.
Who created or directed The Old Grey Whistle Test?
The Old Grey Whistle Test was developed and directed by Not specified.