TV trailer for Knightmare before Series 1

Trailer for Knightmare Series 1

By David Goldstein

How was Knightmare advertised before its first episode? Here is a chance to find out.


A trailer for Knightmare that dates from 5th September 1987 - two days before the first series premiered on Children's ITV - has been found online.

Recorded from a broadcast in the Yorkshire Television region, Knightmare's opening titles are shown along with the opening theme and a male voiceover.

"Enter strange worlds of the imagination, Monday at 4:45 on ITV. And join an exciting quest, stretching your mind beyond its deepest, darkest dreams. But beware, dangers lie en route for this is Knightmare.

Knightmare: a unique real adventure in an amazing fantasy game. Join the quest and with courage and cunning, every challenge can be overcome, and a way can be found through the deadliest dangers of them all. But remember, only the brightest and the best will survive. The journey begins on Monday at 4:45. The journey that is... Knightmare."

The final shot is of the Knightmare logo with 'Monday 4.45' beneath it in the same familiar yellow and red.

In a nod to the series' destiny, it's not explicitly stated that Knightmare is a children's programme. And it wasn't until 1989 (Series 3) that Knightmare moved to its spiritual home of Friday afternoons.

Thank you to Knightmare.com forum member Canadanne for drawing attention to it.

Do you remember learning of Knightmare before its first episode? Are you one of the lucky few who can claim to have been a watcher from the very beginning? If so, we'd be pleased to hear your memories of those early days, via our forum or social networking outposts.

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