The world of classic British comedy is rich and diverse, much like the delightful sketches and parodies found in The Two Ronnies. If you’re a fan of this genre, you’ll love exploring these 16 TV shows that capture the essence of British humor. Check out The Two Ronnies here.
1. Monty Python’s Flying Circus
Monty Python’s Flying Circus is a groundbreaking sketch comedy show that has left a lasting impact on the genre. Starring John Cleese, Graham Chapman, and Eric Idle, the show is known for its absurd and surreal humor.
2. Fawlty Towers
Fawlty Towers is a classic British sitcom that revolves around the misadventures of Basil Fawlty, a rude and incompetent hotel manager. John Cleese stars as Basil, alongside Prunella Scales and Andrew Sachs.
3. The Benny Hill Show
The Benny Hill Show features a mix of slapstick, burlesque, and double entendres. Benny Hill’s comedic genius shines through in this series, which also stars Jackie Wright and Henry McGee.
4. Are You Being Served?
Are You Being Served? is set in a fictional department store and showcases the humorous interactions between its quirky staff. The show stars Mollie Sugden, John Inman, and Frank Thornton.
5. Dad’s Army
Dad’s Army is a sitcom that follows the antics of a bumbling Home Guard unit during World War II. Arthur Lowe, John Le Mesurier, and Clive Dunn lead the cast in this beloved series.
6. Blackadder
Blackadder is a historical sitcom that spans different eras with each series, featuring Rowan Atkinson as the cunning and sarcastic Edmund Blackadder. The show also stars Tony Robinson and Stephen Fry.
7. The Morecambe & Wise Show
The Morecambe & Wise Show is a variety show that combines comedy sketches, music, and guest appearances. Eric Morecambe and Ernie Wise’s chemistry and timing make this a timeless classic.
8. Only Fools and Horses
Only Fools and Horses follows the lives of two market traders, Del Boy and Rodney Trotter, as they try to get rich. David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst star in this heartwarming and hilarious series.
9. Yes Minister
Yes Minister is a political satire that delves into the workings of the British government. The show stars Paul Eddington as Jim Hacker, Nigel Hawthorne as Sir Humphrey Appleby, and Derek Fowlds as Bernard Woolley.
10. The Vicar of Dibley
The Vicar of Dibley is a sitcom about a female vicar in a small English village. Dawn French stars as the charismatic and unconventional vicar, Geraldine Granger, alongside a quirky supporting cast.
11. Open All Hours
Open All Hours is a sitcom set in a small corner shop, featuring the miserly shopkeeper Arkwright and his nephew Granville. Ronnie Barker stars as Arkwright, with David Jason as Granville.
12. Porridge
Porridge is a sitcom set in a prison, following the life of inmate Norman Stanley Fletcher. Ronnie Barker plays Fletcher, with Richard Beckinsale as his cellmate, Lennie Godber.
13. Absolutely Fabulous
Absolutely Fabulous is a sitcom that centers on the eccentric and self-indulgent lives of Edina Monsoon and her best friend Patsy Stone. Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley star in this outrageous and stylish comedy.
14. The Good Life
The Good Life is a sitcom about a couple who decide to leave their conventional lifestyle and become self-sufficient. Richard Briers and Felicity Kendal star as Tom and Barbara Good, with Penelope Keith and Paul Eddington as their neighbors.
15. To the Manor Born
To the Manor Born is a sitcom about an aristocratic woman who moves into the lodge house of her former estate after it is sold. Penelope Keith and Peter Bowles star in this charming and witty series.
16. Keeping Up Appearances
Keeping Up Appearances is a sitcom that follows the social-climbing Hyacinth Bucket, who is determined to impress her neighbors. Patricia Routledge stars as Hyacinth, with Clive Swift as her long-suffering husband, Richard.
