In tribute to Prunella Scales

An episode of Fawlty Towers is to air on BBC One tonight in tribute to Prunella Scales, following her death yesterday at the age of 83.

The broadcaster will air The Builders – episode two from the first series – at 8pm

It originally aired on the BBC on September 26, 1975, and revolved around Basil and Sybil having some structural alterations done to the hotel while they are away for the weekend.

Prunella Scales played Sybil in all 12 episodes of both series, which originally aired in 1975 to 1979.

 Jon Petrie, the BBC’s director of comedy said today: ‘All of us at BBC Comedy are so sorry to hear of Prunella Scales’ passing. She was a national treasure whose brilliance as Sybil Fawlty lit up screens and still makes us laugh today. We send our love and condolences to her family and friends.’

And John Cleese, who played Basil and co-wrote the series with Connie Booth, called Scales death ‘very sad’. 

He added: Pru was a really wonderful comic actress. I’ve recently been watching a number of clips of Fawlty Towers whilst researching a book. Scene after scene she was absolutely perfect. She was a very sweet lady, who spent a lot of her life apologising. I used to tease her about it. I was very, very fond of her.'

The episode will be available to watch on BBC iPlayer for 30 days following transmission.

It replaces a planned repeat of Sort Your Life Out With Stacey Solomon and will be followed by a re-run of Garden Rescue.

» Prunella Scales dies at 93
» Prunella Scales: Seven classic performances

Published: 28 Oct 2025