You think good comedy shows only come from the western side of the Atlantic? This article provides you information on some of the best British comedy shows which have been influential and popular in and outside Britain…
People who haven’t watched British comedy really are missing out on something great. I know that American sitcoms are some of the best and they dominate television ratings in almost every country. However, British TV shows are not far behind.
British comedy started on radio and gradually moved on to TV, making the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) one of the most popular channels, because it started airing a major chunk of British TV shows in Europe. Here are some of the most famous British comedy sitcoms which you can watch for a reliable good laugh.
Top British Comedy TV Shows
Father Ted
It’s obvious that Father Ted is #1 in this list. It has become somewhat of an institution for fans since it first aired in 1995. Written by two geniuses, Graham Linehan and Arthur Matthews, Father Ted displays a wonderful tongue-in-cheek humor which leaves the public wanting for more.
Armstrong and Miller
This is a sketch show headed by the fascinating duo of Armstrong and Miller. It’s filled with great comic situations and great characters. It’s one of the best observational comedies that you will have ever seen. One of its most famous scenes is the one where they play WW II soldiers, but with the language of today’s rugged youth. Definitely check out this one.
Mind Your Language
This is one of the best TV shows of all time, and is one of the most popular British sitcoms. It’s about an English teacher who tries his level best to teach English to a group of foreigners from all walks of life. There are cultural differences everywhere but still humor and harmony make it all easy. The show has been a favorite among many TV viewers and still is one of the most watched TV shows of all time.
Mock The Week
This is hosted by Irish comedian Dara O’ Brien, and is one of the most loved TV shows in the UK. The contestants on the show are mostly stand-up comedians. This is a great watch, as the contestants are put in situations where they have to enact someone’s profession or say something really nasty. The show has been a launchpad for many British comedians and has helped them become well-known face all over Europe.
Best of the Rest
Other than the 4 names mentioned above, here’s a list which you can check out for more hearty laughs.
- Yes Minister
- Coupling
- The Benny Hill Show
- The Office
- Mr. Bean
- Mulberry
- The Kumars at No. 42
- Dad’s Army
- Goon Show
- Little Britain
- QI
- The Inbetweeners
- Peep Show
- The League of Gentlemen
- I’m Alan Partridge
- Bottom
- Spaced
- Big Train
- Black Books
- Green Wing
- Monty Python’s Flying Circus
- Blackadder
These were some of the best British laugh-fests, in which most of them are my personal favorites. So for people who haven’t started watching these yet, start now, because there’s no comedy like British comedy.