7 Underrated British Sitcoms You Shouldn’t Be Missing Out On

Many excellent British sitcoms are worth watching, but some of them aren’t as widely recognized and appreciated as they should be. Although popular sitcoms like “Fawlty Towers” and “Absolutely Fabulous” have gained international fame, there are other lesser-known ones that don’t get the attention they deserve.

It’s quite surprising to note that numerous Hollywood stars actually got their big break in British sitcoms, which many people are unaware of. These groundbreaking projects often go overlooked due to their underrated status. There’s an extensive catalog of British sitcoms that you shouldn’t skip over, but these comedic gems truly deserve more recognition and appreciation than they currently receive.

7. Spaced

2 Seasons, 1999-2001

Edgar Wright’s comedy series, titled “Spaced“, is nothing short of remarkable. This show centers around characters Simon Pegg as Tim and Jessica Hynes (known as Stevenson) as Daisy, who are actually strangers, but pretend to be a couple in order to secure an apartment amidst London’s tough rental market.

During the entire series, they often receive unique guests that add a mix of laughter and drama to the storyline. Among these characters are their landlady Marsha, the quirky artist neighbor Brian, and Daisy’s close friend Twist. However, it is Nick Frost’s portrayal of Tim’s best friend Mike, who eventually becomes a housemate, that stands out the most.

Before Shaun of the Dead, the pairing of Nick Frost and Simon Pegg might seem unusual at first glance. However, their comedic prowess is vividly showcased in Spaced, a hilarious series that catapulted them to Hollywood stardom. Spaced, an underrated gem, is a must-watch for both fans within the UK and those outside it who appreciate exceptional comedy.

6. Not Going Out

14 Seasons, 2006-Present

The less-acknowledged British comedy series, “Not Going Out,” features stand-up comedian Lee Mack portraying himself in a fictional setting, living as the roommate of his best friend’s sister, Lucy (Sally Bretton). Over its 14 seasons, Not Going Out has undergone significant transformations and can be divided into three distinct phases.

In the latest episode of “Not Going Out,” the characters transition into a new phase of their lives, moving to the countryside as their children head off to college. Previously, Lee was depicted as a lethargic and undriven individual who struggled to express his feelings to Lucy. Over time, he confesses his love for her, and the narrative then follows them as they navigate married life with three growing kids.

The 15th season of “Not Going Out,” set to air in 2026, will be a significant milestone as it marks the sitcom’s 20th anniversary. Interestingly, “Not Going Out” is currently the longest-running British sitcom that continues to be broadcast. Although it’s well recognized within the UK, it could certainly attract more global recognition.

5. Motherland

3 Seasons, 2016-2022

In this rephrased version, let’s say: “The series ‘Motherland’ features Anna Maxwell Martin portraying Julia, a mother of two who is juggling her demanding career with the challenges of an unsupportive spouse. Joining her in this journey are Diane Morgan, famously known for her role as Philomena Cunk, playing fellow parent Liz, and Kevin Brady as neighborhood father Paul.

Motherland humorously portrays the authentic experiences of parenthood, regardless of one’s circumstances. In this series, Liz is a solo parent navigating a complicated dynamic with her ex, while Julia struggles to accept help from her own mother (often showing signs of ingratitude), and Kevin’s family life serves as a welcome distraction from his troubled marriage.

Motherland exhibits a hysterical humor that doesn’t shy away from depth. For instance, the final episode carries a profound impact due to Julia’s mother passing away on Christmas Day. Despite wrapping up its run, a spinoff titled Amandaland premiered earlier this year and has already been greenlit for a second season.

4. Cuckoo

5 Seasons, 2012-2019

If you’re seeking a humorous series featuring Andy Samberg and Taylor Lautner in a unique father-son dynamic, then “Cuckoo” is the perfect fit for you! This show centers around Andy Samberg as the titular character who marries Rachel (played by Tamla Kari or Esther Smith) during her travels abroad. Upon his arrival in the UK to meet her family, he crosses paths with Rachel’s father, Ken (portrayed by Greg Davies), who initially dislikes Cuckoo but eventually forms a close relationship with him.

In season 2, it’s disclosed that Cuckoo has passed away, and Taylor Lautner joins the cast as Dale, his estranged son. Surprisingly, Rachel finds herself in a romantic relationship with her stepson, although they share a closer age difference compared to typical step-parent scenarios. Rachel’s brother Dylan (Tyger Drew-Honey) and mother Lorna (Helen Baxendale) add plenty of humor to the plot.

In my opinion, it’s truly delightful to witness Taylor Lautner again on the big screen post-“Twilight,” particularly as he takes on a role that couldn’t be more contrasting from his days as Jacob Black. This time around, we find ourselves immersed in the laughter-filled world of “Cuckoo,” a family sitcom that never fails to tickle our funny bones. The intriguing dynamic between the title character and Dale, as they stumble through a society alien to them, is nothing short of brilliant!

3. Friday Night Dinner

6 Seasons, 2011-2020

The British sitcom known as “Friday Night Dinner” is widely recognized for its humor, centering around the Goodman family. Tamsin Greig, who has previously acted in Matt LeBlanc’s series “Episodes,” plays the domineering mother Jackie. Her husband Martin (Paul Ritter) often finds himself in comedic mishaps. Every Friday evening, their sons Adam (Simon Bird) and Johnny (Tom Rosenthal) come over for a family meal together.

Typically, things don’t run smoothly, and there’s often disruption caused by their eccentric neighbor Jim (Mark Heap) and his pet dog, Wilson. Despite this, the principal characters in Friday Night Dinner are excellent, and the recurring side characters are just as compelling. For instance, the two grandmothers exhibit distinct personalities that lead to hilarious scenes. Aunt Val (Tracy-Ann Oberman) is another memorable figure on the show.

I find it incredibly entertaining that each installment of Friday Night Diner is riotously funny. Whether it’s poor Martin getting stung by a bee in an awkward spot or a couch getting stuck in the stairwell, this show masterfully transforms the ordinary into hilarious mayhem, making me laugh every time.

2. Black Books

3 Seasons, 2000-2004

Black Books centers around the named bookstore and its owner, Bernard Black (Dylan Moran). Bernard has little concern for anything beyond smoking and drinking, and he shows no enthusiasm for managing his store effectively. He is later accompanied by Manny (Bill Bailey), whom he meets and reluctantly takes on as an employee in the first episode, and his old friend Fran (Tamsin Greig), who initially owns a shop next door to the bookstore.

Black Books is laugh-out-loud funny throughout. The character of Bernard’s disdain towards people, Fran’s preoccupation with sex, and Manny’s relentless teasing are all incredibly amusing. Among the episodes, the second season’s “A Nice Change” stands out, as it follows the three main characters on a global journey to multiple airports in search of an affordable holiday vacation.

These characters aren’t intended to be overly endearing, much like some popular sitcoms such as “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.” Yet, this very trait is what makes them so hilarious. “Black Books” will keep you chuckling without end, and luckily for viewers, they get to appreciate Bill Bailey’s remarkable musical skills within the series as well.

1. Toast Of London

4 Seasons, 2012-2022

One of Matt Berry’s standout television productions is “Toast of London,” where he portrays the character Steven Toast, a voiceover artist. Berry truly shines in this series, demonstrating his exceptional comedic talent. In “Toast of London,” Steven Toast is a self-centered actor with a quick temper who makes attempts at being a ladies’ man, but ultimately falls short.

In every episode of Toast of London, I find myself following along with Steven on his unique journey through various recording ventures and the unexpected incidents that transpire in between them. One particularly memorable character from this delightful series is Clem Fandango (Shazad Latif), a fellow studio worker who often gets under Steven’s skin by repeatedly asking, “Hello, Steven? This is Clem Fandango. Can you hear me?

Although Toast of London doesn’t have a lot of lore like some sitcoms do, it’s still worth watching. This show offers some of Matt Berry’s best performances, and fans of his acting will appreciate it due to his unique and specific dialogue, a trait he also showcases as Laszlo Cravensworth in What We Do in the Shadows.

2025-07-04 19:29