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Yes, Prime Minister (1986 – 1988)

1986 • 2 seasons • Comedy, War & Politics • TV-PG
On September 24, 2026
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All seasons

Yes, Prime Minister — Series 1

8 episodes · Jan 9, 1986

Navigating the treacherous waters of British politics proves unexpectedly challenging for newly appointed Prime Minister Jim Hacker. Thrust into office with little preparation and possessing neither the vision nor the steely resolve typically associated with power, Hacker finds himself woefully outmatched. His only allies seem to be his own desperate ambition and a cunning Cabinet Secretary, Sir Humphrey Appleby – a master of manipulation whose pragmatic schemes threaten to undermine Hacker’s every move. This season promises a hilarious and insightful look at the often-absurd realities of government, where good intentions are routinely sacrificed on the altar of bureaucratic maneuvering.

1. The Grand Design
Jan 9, 1986 · 30m · 8.0

His finger poised over the launch codes, Hacker resolved that his inaugural action as Prime Minister would be the unveiling of a sweeping new defense strategy.

2. The Ministerial Broadcast
Jan 16, 1986 · 30m · 7.7

Jim received extensive coaching as he prepared to deliver his defense policy statement to the nation, navigating the intricacies of presenting before a large audience.

3. The Smoke Screen
Jan 23, 1986 · 30m · 9.3

Jim advocates for ending smoking by imposing substantial taxes, yet he faces considerable resistance from both the powerful tobacco industry and the Treasury department.

4. The Key
Jan 30, 1986 · 30m · 10.0

A disagreement between Sir Humphrey and Bernard eclipses matters of national importance as they find themselves at odds following Jim's attempt to limit Sir Humphrey’s direct access to Downing Street.

5. A Real Partnership
Feb 6, 1986 · 30m · 8.0

Sir Humphrey maneuvered to secure his anticipated salary adjustment, despite the current suspension of similar increases for Members of Parliament due to pressing financial constraints.

6. A Victory for Democracy
Feb 13, 1986 · 30m · 7.0

Jim found himself compelled to intervene, determined to prevent a Marxist revolution from seizing control of a small island within the Commonwealth, even as the Foreign Office worked to withhold vital information from him.

7. The Bishop’s Gambit
Feb 20, 1986 · 30m · 6.0

Jim faced the unenviable task of selecting a new bishop, finding himself dissatisfied with both the Church's suggestions and those put forward by Sir Humphrey.

8. One of Us
Feb 27, 1986 · 30m · 7.0

A digital threat emerged, suggesting Sir Humphrey would be placed on administrative leave pending an investigation into his past decision – years prior – to grant clearance to a known Soviet agent. In response, and with characteristic subtl…