Relive the drama: Byker Grove now streaming for the first time in 20 years

The legendary teen drama Byker Grove, which captivated a generation of British viewers, is officially back – with classic episodes now available to stream on STV Player and coming to ITVX later this year.

A cultural touchstone for young people growing up in the 90s and early 2000s, Byker Grove is returning to screens as part of a co-exclusive streaming partnership between STV Player and ITVX, alongside Ant & Dec’s production company, Mitre Studios, which now owns the rights to the show.

Launching in 1989 on BBC One, Byker Grove followed the ups and downs of a group of teenagers who spent their time at a youth club in the Byker area of Newcastle.

The show stood out not only for its authentic portrayal of adolescence, but also for fearlessly tackling controversial and challenging issues including drug use, child abuse, abortion and homophobia.

One of the show’s most enduring legacies is the launch of Ant & Dec’s careers. The duo – then known by their Byker character names, PJ & Duncan – became fan favourites and went on to achieve pop chart success, most notably with their number one single Let’s Get Ready to Rhumble.

Other alumni include EastEnders and Strictly Come Dancing star Jill Halfpenny, and actress and TV presenter Donna Air, who also got their start on the series.

Behind the scenes, Byker Grove was equally influential. Writer Catherine Johnson went on to pen the global hit musical Mamma Mia!, and Oscar-winning director Tom Hooper (The King’s Speech) directed episodes in 1997.

Richard Williams, STV’s Managing Director, Audience: Video & Technology, commented:

“Just when you thought the 90s revival might have been slowing down, we’ve only gone and brought back one of the seminal TV shows of the decade.

“Byker Grove was an integral part of so many British childhoods and we’re delighted that those original viewers – now of a slightly more mature vintage – can relive all the nostalgic action on STV Player. And if any Gen Z viewers want to find out who really started the baggy trousers trend, look no further than Byker Grove!”

Craig Morris, Managing Editor of ITV Channels & ITVX, added:

“We are so excited to bring this iconic coming-of-age series to ITVX, marking the first TV appearances of two ITV stalwarts. Relive all the great moments with us later this year.”

Ed Sleeman, Managing Director of Mitre Studios, said:

“We’re delighted to be teaming up with ITVX and STV Player to give a new generation of viewers the opportunity to watch this iconic series from the start and to see where it all began for Ant & Dec.”

Classic episodes of Byker Grove are streaming now on STV Player, with the series set to launch on ITVX later in 2025.

Download the free STV Player app from your App Store to get watching now.