This show proved to be an unexpected hit when first broadcast in 1969 on BBC2. Despite the fact BBC2 had been broadcasting many shows in color since 1967, in 1969 most of the UK population were still watching on monochrome sets. This is ironic considering snooker is a game involving the potting of colored balls.
Alex Higgins was banned from the show for bringing prostitutes to the event and for swearing after he missed a shot. Although he was allowed to enter again in 1978.