Fans of Strictly Come Dancing will be able to enjoy a screening of the show’s first episode this summer as part of a special season of BBC throwback programming.

The channel will take viewers on a journey down memory lane by presenting a catalogue of Saturday night entertainment shows from the last five decades starting July 27.

The classic entertainment season will be broadcast on BBC Four and iPlayer over three Saturday evenings during the BBC’s Olympic coverage.

The collection also includes the debut episode of Strictly Come Dancing, which first aired on May 15, 2004 and was hosted by Tess Daly and Sir Bruce Forsyth.

The programme also includes the final episode of Sir Michael Parkinson’s talk show of the same name, which was broadcast on the BBC before moving to ITV in 2004.

The last BBC edition featured interviews with Sir Bruce, tennis star Boris Becker and Irish band The Corrs.

The programme will feature episodes of “The Generation Game” and variations of “Blankety Blank” hosted by Sir Terry Wogan, Les Dawson and Paul O’Grady’s drag character Lily Savage, as well as “Noel’s House Party”, “Bob’s Full House” and comedian Miranda Hart’s interview with Sir Bruce in 2013.

Lindsay Currie, Head of Channel Management at the BBC, said: “We are delighted to take our viewers on a nostalgic journey through five decades of beloved BBC entertainment.

“While BBC One is dedicated to the Olympics, BBC Four and iPlayer offer a treasure trove of classic shows with popular presenters.

“This collection is testament to the enduring appeal of these iconic shows and we know audiences will love revisiting these classics and celebrating the rich heritage of the BBC’s Saturday night entertainment offering.”

Full broadcast and listing details will be announced in due course.

The season begins on Saturday 27 July on BBC Four and iPlayer.