Right now you can watch Top of the Pops in the UK on BBC iPlayer — and it is more addictive than the premise lets on. Every one of its 43 seasons holds up. A 7/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Richard Bacon anchors the format, but the whole cast makes it watchable. Put it on tonight on BBC iPlayer and see for yourself.

Top of the Pops arrived without much fanfare and built its audience the hard way — through word of mouth. The production behind Top of the Pops knows exactly which moments to let breathe. The biggest stars, the most iconic performances, the most outrageous outfits – it’s Britain’s number one pop show. Richard Bacon and Fearne Cotton give it a personality the format doesn't always earn. 43 seasons (1964–2006) gave the story room most shows never get. The format has been replicated endlessly since Top of the Pops first appeared, which is its own form of tribute. It knows exactly what it is, and does not try to be anything else.

Top of the Pops is impossible to watch casually — expect strong opinions. Fans of Wipeout will recognise the sensibility here immediately. The 43-season run rewards the patience it asks of you. The casting and production never let it go stale. The kind of thing that disappears an evening without you noticing.

Top of the Pops wrapped up in 2006, created by Johnnie Stewart — and 43 seasons are available to watch from start to finish. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.