Vintage Watchable: “Lucy in London” — Lucille Ball’s Rare 1966 TV Movie

A Pioneering Comedy Architect Takes Her Genius Abroad

Catch a pioneering Lucille Ball — an architect of television comedy and the first to do it at her scale — in this rare full‑length TV film, Lucy in London. A true vintage gem, the special originally aired on October 24, 1966, and remains one of the most obscure, deep‑cut treasures in the Lucille Ball universe.

This isn’t for the casual watcher or the bandwagon trend follower. This is for the genuine Miss Ball devotees — the ones who appreciate her craft, her timing, her physical comedy, and her fearless willingness to experiment.

In this one‑off special, Lucille takes viewers across the Atlantic for a whimsical, full‑length adventure filmed entirely in London. It was conceived as a spin‑off event tied to her then‑running hit series, The Lucy Show, but stands on its own as a 1960s television spectacle.

See the Gallery — Photo: CBS Television

You’ll find Lucy on an international excursion unlike anything else in her catalog — complete with her signature moves, grooves, and comedic mischief. From London streets to iconic landmarks, she delivers a performance that’s both playful and pioneering, reminding audiences why she remains the blueprint for modern TV comedy.

Settle in for a rare slice of Lucy history — a vintage watch that still sparkles with her unmistakable charm.

INYIM Did You Know?

• “Lucy in London” was originally planned as the first of several international Lucy specials, but the others were quietly scrapped due to the massive production cost.
• The special cost over $400,000 to produce in 1966, making it one of the most expensive TV one‑offs of its era.
• Lucille Ball was reportedly unhappy with the final cut, feeling the editing didn’t match the comedic rhythm she was known for.
• The production required special permission from the British government to film in several restricted London locations, including Trafalgar Square and the Tower of London.
• The special features choreography by the legendary Hermes Pan, best known for his work with Fred Astaire.
• Anthony Newley appears in the film, marking one of the rare times Lucy shared screen time with a major British entertainer of the period.
• The wardrobe was custom‑designed by Edith Head, continuing her long‑running collaboration with Lucille Ball.
• Despite mixed reviews, the special earned an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Variety Special.
• The project was filmed during a break in production of “The Lucy Show,” making it one of the few times Lucy shot on location outside the U.S. during her TV career.
• The special was intended to rebrand Lucy for a younger, mod‑era audience, leaning into 1960s London fashion, music, and style.

Watch the Rare 1966 Full‑Length TV Film