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BBC to release new sitcom all at once

iPlayer first for Jonah From Tonga

The entire series of Chris Lilley’s new sitcom Jonah From Tonga will be released at once on the BBC iPlayer.

This is the first time the BBC has followed the Netflix model and made all episodes of a new series available online ahead of its broadcast.

And it could be an indicator of how BBC Three will operate when it becomes an internet-only channel under cost-cutting measures.

Jonah From Tonga, which follows the life of the rebellious 14-year-old Summer Heights High character, will available on iPlayer from Friday May 2 – but only for 48 hours. At the same time it will be available on ABC Australia’s catch-up TV service iview.

The show will then air on BBC Three from Thursday May 8.

Victoria Jaye, head of TV content for BBC iPlayer, said: ‘This is BBC iPlayer’s first collaboration with an international broadcaster to create an online TV event.

‘For 48 hours only, iPlayer audiences will be given access to all episodes of Chris Lilley’s new comedy series Jonah From Tonga. We’re excited to see how this digital event sets light to social media activity from fans both here and on the other side of the world.’

Here is how the ABC is promoting the series;