Category: Sitcom

The UK’s Most Controversial Sitcoms Episode 2

In this video I’m going to be looking at three more television sitcoms that were criticised for their offensive content. We will see why people considered these shows so controversial. They all lasted for several series, and one show was the writer’s favourite. However, they have all suffered from – mostly retrospective – criticism.

The UK’s Forgotten Sitcoms (1950s and 1960s)

Television in the 1950s was still relatively new. Sitcoms were evolving, and audience tastes were different. These shows, often unseen for decades and in some cases possibly lost entirely, represent a unique window into the cultural landscape of the era. Join me as we explore the stories behind these largely forgotten pieces of television history.

This is a bit of a “bumper episode” with 12 ‘forgotten’ sitcoms, and references to about 12 other sitcoms!

The UK’s Forgotten Sitcoms (2003 to 2008)

I’ve been digging through old magazines, newspapers, and online reviews to find out what critics and viewers thought about sitcoms, way back in the early days of TV and even up to now. In this video, I’m taking a look at some sitcoms you might have forgotten about that aired between 2003 and 2008.

The UK’s Forgotten Sitcoms (1977 to 1986)

I’ve been digging deep – through old newspapers, dusty books, and even forgotten corners of the internet – to find out what people thought about sitcoms, way back when TV first started, and all the way to today.

I’m focusing on some shows you probably don’t remember, and maybe for good reason! Some of these shows are real treasures, while others… well, let’s just say they’re best left buried in the past. This video is a trip down memory lane, taking you from 1977 to 1986.

The UK’s Sitcoms loved by viewers, hated by critics

It’s a familiar story: the public falls head over heels for a TV show, while the critics remain largely unimpressed. In this YouTube video we delve into four beloved British sitcoms that perfectly illustrate this divide. These shows demonstrate that sometimes, the audience knows best. I’ve sifted through countless articles, websites, and reports to uncover the public’s affection and the media’s more measured responses.

New Video: Roy Clarke, not just a sitcom writer …

Firstly, sorry there hasn’t been a new video from me for just over a year. 2024 was not a good year and multiple obstacles prevented me from producing anything, although I have been writing scripts for several video series.

This first video of 2025 delves into the literary world of Roy Clarke, the legendary writer behind iconic sitcoms like “Last of the Summer Wine” and “Keeping Up Appearances”.

While well-known for his television and radio scripts, Roy also wrote a collection of books that capture the same wit and social observation that made his shows so well loved. From Hyacinth’s hilarious etiquette guide to chronicles of the eccentric characters in “Last of the Summer Wine”. In this video we look at their themes, humour, and unique perspective on British life.

Summer Wine Decanted

“Summer Wine Decanted” is the title of the book based on my YouTube series. It is the story of the BBC TV sitcom Last of the Summer Wine from its humble start to becoming a world-wide favourite and the longest running situation comedy in the world.

It has biographies of the actors and covers every major character and many of the regular and occasional supporting characters appearing in the show’s 37 year run.

There is also an in-depth Trivia section, covering details you might find interesting, things you missed when you watched the show and behind-the-scenes secrets.

Available now on Amazon: Summer Wine Decanted: The Ultimate Guide to Last of the Summer Wine and at other online book stores

The "Summer Wine Decanted" book is available from Amazon and other online bookstores