Noughties-era comedy absolutely tickles the nostalgia sweet spot. Netflix’s re-release of Friends in 2015 fuelled a revival in popular culture, introducing the series to younger generations and re-establishing it as a cornerstone of comfort comedy. The rise in nostalgia led to the 2021 Friends: The Reunion, as well as multiple Friends-themed events and memorabilia.

It wasn’t the only TV show to witness a resurgence fuelled by nostalgia, nor was it the only one deserving of more time in the limelight. We’ve compiled a list of the comedies we want to see people talking about more and again. From the big guns such as Friends, to the forgotten classics such as Coupling, to the quirky weirdness of The Mighty Boosh, they’re all here.

25. The Mighty Boosh (2004-2007)

Starring: Julian Barratt, Noel Fielding, Michael Fielding, Rich Fulcher, Dave Brown

A surrealist comedy sketch show quite unlike anything else on this list, The Mighty Boosh was the natural evolution of the comedy troupe’s work in radio and on stage. Inspired by the ‘70s era comedians the Goodies, The Mighty Boosh troupe started developing acts and debuting them at the Edinburgh Fringe. Their 2000 show Autoboosh got the attention of BBC execs, and the team got a radio slot, and later three TV series comprising 20 episodes on BBC Three.

The series explored bonkers locations such as the Zooiniverse, including both human and non-human characters.It also featured improvisational comedy songs, often with made up lyrics. The show popularised the term The Crimp, which is a comedy acapella song sung by Julian Barratt and Noel Fielding. It might not be for everyone: It’s a strange show, quirky, funny and musical, but if it tickles your fancy there’s nothing better.

Did you know? The series was called "The Mighty Boosh" because of a haircut Michael Fielding once had nicknamed "the mighty bush."

Rewatchability rating: 6/10. Some of the songs are still bangers, and plenty of the skits are so weird that they’re pretty hard to date. That said, a controversy with blackface (not uncommon for the period) brings down the rewatch score.

Where to stream: NOW

24. Not Going Out (2006-present)

Starring: Lee Mack, Tim Vine, Megan Dodds, Sally Bretton, Miranda Hart, Katy Wix, Deborah Grant, Geoffrey Whitehead, Bobby Ball, Hugh Dennis, Abigail Cruttenden

Three-time winner of Best Male Television Comic at the British Comedy Awards, Lee Mack, is the star of this self-penned comedy about a fictional version of himself as an initially unemployed layabout. The series is British comedy’s second longest-running sitcom ever (behind Last of the Summer Wine), and even survived cancellation in 2009 after fan backlash and strong DVD sales.

Over its 18 year run, the show has featured a revolving door of Mack’s comedian friends, including Tim Vine as (you-guessed-it) Tim, Lee’s best friend. Miranda Hart is Barbara in series 2 and 3. Lee’s neighbour, Toby, is played by Hugh Dennis from series 7.

This is another comedy that has reinvented itself over the course of its long run. After Lee and Lucy (Sally Bretton) married and had their first child in series 7, series 8 picked up again seven years later, with the pair now parents to three kids. It was a fruitful change, and the show’s highest ever viewing figures came with the series 8 finale in 2017 (5.63 million viewers).

Did you know? Throughout the entire run, the character Lee's surname has never been revealed, even after marrying Lucy and having kids.

Rewatchability rating: 7/10. This one doesn’t need reruns, it’s already renewed for a 14th series, with no plans to end soon. It is fun, however, to rewatch the Docklands-era episodes.

Where to stream: BBC iPlayer, U, Sky Go

23. Scrubs (2001-2010)

Starring: Zach Braff, Sarah Chalke, Donald Faison, Neil Flynn, Ken Jenkins, John C. McGinley, Judy Reyes

Loosely based on the experiences of Dr. Jonathan Doris, a friend of show creator Bill Lawrence, Scrubs was adept at exploring the weird, wonderful, and oft-times hilarious world of medicine. It starred Zach Braff as JD (his name an homage to Doris), a neurotic young doctor who begins work alongside his fellow medical graduates - including his best bud Turk (Donald Faison) and socially awkward love interest Elliot (Sarah Chalke).

While nobody’s claiming Scrubs is a perfect portrayal of modern medicine, it probably is the funniest series ever set in a hospital. Larger-than-life characters, hospital politics, and high-stress situations give Scrubs a unique spot on the noughties comedy landscape. A highlight of the show is JD and Turk’s completely platonic romance, best described in their rendition of “Guy love” in season six.

Did you know? The filming location for the Sacred Heart Hospital - the North Hollywood Medical Center - was torn down in 2011.

Rewatchability rating: 7/10.

Where to stream: Disney+

22. Peep Show (2003-2015)

Starring: David Mitchell, Robert Webb, Olivia Colman, Matt King

Although they did not write the series, the comedy duo of Mitchell and Webb are the beating heart of this sitcom, which was once Channel 4’s longest-running sitcom. Peep Show, as its name suggests, uses the unique gimmick of presenting the entire series from the POV of its leads Mark and Jez, finding much of its humour in contrasting their thoughts and feelings with their actions.

It made stars of its stars. Mitchell is now a regular on the British comedy circuit as a team captain on Would I Lie To You - as well as William Shakespeare in Upstart Crow. Similarly, Webb starred in the hit comedy The Smoking Room and wrote the bestselling memoir How Not to Be a Boy. Olivia Colman, who played Mark’s love interest Sophie, went on to win an Academy Award.

While Peep Show won British Comedy Awards and BAFTAs, plus celebrity fans including Ricky Gervais, it never garnished the viewing figures to match the acclaim (possibly something to do with it being shown at 10-11pm at night on Channel 4). However, high DVD sales, Mitchell and Webb’s growing popularity and fan engagement in the series ensured the series’ regular recommissions. There have since been books, documentaries, and fan-led podcasts celebrating the series.

Did you know? The role of Super Hans was written with Danny Dyer in mind, and Russell Brand also auditioned for the role before Matt King won it.

Rewatchability rating: 9/10. This cast will never not be funny, and it’s a cult hit for a reason.

Where to stream: Netflix, Channel 4, ITVX

21. The IT Crowd (2006-2013)

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Starring: Chris O'Dowd, Richard Ayoade, Katherine Parkinson

Best Sitcom winner at the 2009 BAFTA Awards, The IT Crowd was inspired by a IT tech house call received by series creator and Father Ted writer Graham Linehan. It follows an award-winning cast of stars, for most of whom it was their breakout hit. Following the show, Chris O’Dowd moved to Hollywood, starring in films including Bridesmaids (2011), Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children (2016) and The Cloverfield Paradox (2018). Katherine Parkinson also made the transformation to glittering film star with The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society (2018). Meanwhile, Richard Ayoade’s quirky comedy style has made him an unconventional pro at TV presenting: he now hosts Travel Man, Gadget Man, The Crystal Maze - as well as hosting the TV BAFTAs in 2021 and 2022.

Did you know? The UK DVD release has ‘1337’ or ‘leet speak’ as a subtitle option, which is a slang language used by hackers.

Rewatchability rating: 6/10. Some jokes have dated, but the core comedy value of IT professionals remains unhindered.

Where to stream: Netflix, Channel 4, Sky Go

20. French and Saunders (1987–2007)

Starring: Dawn French, Jennifer Saunders

The brilliant work of Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders changed the landscape for women in comedy in the nineties and noughties. The pair met at London’s Central School of Speech and Drama in 1978, before starting a fruitful partnership on stage, and by 1987, on BBC Two. In their Hollywood and celebrity-themed satirical sketches, they took on films like Gone With the Wind and Titanic, with sketches that are still hilariously on point today.

Their work established them as household names, and both stars went on to have brilliant - and funny - careers elsewhere on British TV. French appeared as the eponymous Vicar of Dibley, while Saunders took one of her French and Saunders skit characters - Edina Monsoon - to the big time with Absolutely Fabulous from 1992 to 2012. For their work together, French and Saunders received the BAFTA’s highest honour - a BAFTA Fellowship - in 2009.

Did you know? Before settling with French and Saunders as the name for their double act, the pair used to call themselves The Menopause Sisters.

Rewatchability rating: 7/10. If you can get past some of the poor production values, French and Saunders are as funny as ever.

Where to stream: Sky Go

19. Everybody Loves Raymond (1996-2005)

Starring: Ray Romano, Patricia Heaton, Brad Garrett, Madylin Sweeten, Doris Roberts, Peter Boyle, Monica Horan

Loosely based on the life of its lead star Ray Romano, Everybody Loves Raymond is a comedy about family dynamics that anyone with a close-knit family can relate to. The Barones are a loud Italian American family living in New York - Raymond lives with his wife Debra and three kids in a house opposite his meddling parents and adult policeman brother. Much of the comedy revolves around the fact Raymond is the apple of his mother’s eye, and neither his long-suffering wife Debra nor his morose brother Robert can quite compare.

It’s a quieter comedy than some of the others on this list, revolving around family dynamics and situations that are ever-topical. What really sets it apart are its award-winning cast, notably the five-time Emmy winning actress ​​Doris Roberts, who is in her element as Ray and Robert’s domineering mother.

Did you know? The set used for Ray and Debra's living room was the remodeled set from another CBS sitcom All In The Family, which aired between 1971 and 1979.

Rewatchability rating: 9/10. The jokes hold up surprisingly well, and plenty of the storylines remain relevant. Channel 4 hasn’t stopped repeating it, and neither will we.

Where to stream: Prime Video, Channel 4

18. Coupling (2000-2004)

Starring: Jack Davenport, Gina Bellman, Sarah Alexander, Kate Isitt, Ben Miles, Richard Coyle

The UK’s answer to Friends, though sadly without the longevity. Series creator Steven Moffat, now more famous for his work on Doctor Who and Sherlock, did something few thought possible: adapting the American sitcom friendship format to British sensitivities. Naturally, Coupling was brasher, boozier, and had more references to breasts than anything across the Pond, and yet its format was remarkably familiar and successful.

The series followed Steve and Susan, named after and loosely based on Moffat and his real life wife and series producer Sue Vertue, and their four friends (some of whom were ex-lovers). It gathered an exceptional ensemble cast. It introduced us to concepts we’d never heard of before, such as a Porn Buddy. Sadly for comedy fans, it only lasted four series due to Moffat’s involvement with other projects, notably Doctor Who’s 2005 revival, but the laughs are still good fun on a rewatch.

Did you know? Coupling was (briefly) remade for the US market, as a possible replacement for Friends. After receiving abysmal reviews from viewers and critics, it was cancelled after airing just four of its ten filmed episodes.

Rewatchability rating: 7/10. It’s not perfect, but there’s less division over the quality of these episodes in retrospect than there are over Moffat’s Doctor Who contributions!

Where to stream: ITVX, NOW

17. The Vicar of Dibley (1994-2007)

Starring: Dawn French, Emma Chambers, Trevor Peacock, Gary Waldhorn, James Fleet, John Bluthal, Liz Smith, Roger Lloyd-Pack

Comedy screenwriting legend Richard Curtis, whose long CV includes Hollywood hits such as Four Weddings and a Funeral and Bridget Jones, created Geraldine Granger with the help of real clergywoman Joy Carroll Wallis, who was one of the first women ordained as a Church of England priest in 1994.

Then famous for her work in sketch comedy alongside Jennifer Saunders, British Comedy Award-winner Dawn French took on the titular role of a fun-loving and - most importantly - female Anglican priest. Her arrival in Dibley led to a comedy of errors, surprising a town of local oddballs.

Given the star quality involved in the making of the show, it’s not a surprise that it attracted some high-profile guest stars, includingHugh Bonneville, Mel Giedroyc, Richard Griffiths, Miranda Hart, Alistair McGowan, Kylie Minogue, Rachel Hunter, Terry Wogan, Jeremy Paxman, Martyn Lewis, Darcey Bussell, Sean Bean,Sarah, Duchess of York, Richard Ayoade, Orla Brady, Fiona Bruce, Annette Crosbie, Johnny Depp, Ruth Jones, Hilary Kay, Damian Lewis, Maureen Lipman, Jennifer Saunders, Sting and his wife Trudie Styler.

Did you know? Dawn French received hate mail from male vicars when she started working on the show.

Rewatchability rating: 5/10. It’s still a good one to whip out at Christmas, but the production values look pretty aged now.

Where to stream: ITVX

16. How I Met Your Mother (2005-2014)

Starring: Josh Radnor, Jason Segel, Cobie Smulders, Neil Patrick Harris, Alyson Hannigan

Another sitcom about friends in Manhattan in their twenties, although with a unique premise: the whole show was the story of how Ted (as a narrator, played by Bob Saget, and otherwise by Josh Radnor) met the mother of his children, Luke and Penny. Apparently, he felt it necessary to include details of his conquests with many other women, as well as the hilarious antics of his close-knit friend group. It meant that the young actors who played Ted’s kids filmed nine seasons worth of reactions in advance, and signed an NDA as the only two actors to know the show’s endgame. This framing device proved a strength - and later massive detriment - to the show, as its finale is still spoken about with disdain (in 2018, it topped USA Today’s list of Worst TV Finales of All Time).

While some fans believe the ending drastically affected its rewatch potential, HIMYM was still an excellent source of laughs 90% of the time. It introduced new terminology to the noughties zeitgeist (apparently, google searches for the term ‘Bro Code’ were nonexistent before Barney Stinson), it led to the publication of real life books including the aforementioned Code and The Playbook, and it made stars of Josh Radnor, Jason Segel and Cobie Smulders (Buffy alum Hannigan and Doogie Howser star Harris were already big names).

Did you know? Before meeting the titular mother on-screen, Ted Mosby dated at least 57 women (this number only includes named characters).

Rewatchability rating: 7/10. If you ignore the ending, and Barney’s more misogynistic jokes, HIMYM is a perfectly serviceable rewatch.

Where to stream: Disney+

15. The Office UK (2000-2003)

Starring: Ricky Gervais, Martin Freeman, Mackenzie Crook, Lucy Davis

The first British sitcom to ever win an American Golden Globe award, and later the inspiration for a nine season US adaptation (plus a new, yet to be released sequel), there’s no denying the Americans loved socially-unaware office manager David Brent (played by show creator and seven-time BAFTA winner Ricky Gervais).

Utilising the ‘mockumentary’ format, The Office shone with its razor sharp observational comedy about life in a mundane, ordinary office job. Somehow, it avoided making the obvious jokes, and focused on true-to-life characters: there was Brent, of course, who believed he was the beating heart of the office while in actuality being at best embarrassing and at worst utterly cringeworthy and downright offensive. Martin Freeman began his penchant for playing lovable characters with the mild Tim Canterbury, while Mackenzie Crook was the needlessly vindictive team leader Gareth Keenan. They were all characters we felt that we’d met before, maybe even in the same office setting, and it was this smart relatability that made it such an enduring hit.

Did you know? As well as The Office US, 13 other countries created local adaptations of the series..

Rewatchability rating: 7/10. There was a point, during the pandemic, where we thought office working might become a thing of a past. Fortunately for The Office’s relatability, we’re all back there again and in need of this kind of joyful nostalgic escape.

Where to stream: BBC iPlayer, ITVX

14. Absolutely Fabulous (1992-2012)

Starring: Jennifer Saunders, Joanna Lumley, Julia Sawalha, June Whitfield, Jane Horrocks

Based on the French and Saunders sketch Modern Mother and Daughter, Absolutely Fabulous starred Saunders as Edina Monsoon (previously called Adriana), a self-absorbed PR executive who loved booze, drugs, and the high life. It acquired a cast of big name comic actresses with names also starting with J: Joanna Lumley as Patsy Stone, June Whitfield as Mother, Jane Horrocks as Bubble, and Julia Sawalha, who replaced French as Saffy, Eddy’s daughter.

Eddy and Patsy’s larger-than-life commitment to doing all the things one shouldn’t be doing (and loudly), was both liberating and hilarious to watch. It was a hit format: winning BAFTAs, British Comedy Awards and even an Emmy. In 2000, the BFI ranked Ab Fab as the 17th greatest British television show of all time.

The show was also a hit with gay audiences, inspiring multiple drag artists and the song ‘Absolutely Fabulous’ by the Pet Shop Boys. In 2002, Joanna Lumley and Jennifer Saunders served as judges at an Edina and Patsy look-a-like drag competition for Pride.

Did you know? There were two unsuccessful attempts to make a US adaptation of the show, one of which would have seen Star Wars legend Carrie Fisher play Eddie.

Rewatchability rating: 8/10. It’s all about Saunders and Lumley’s undeniable chemistry, and that never gets old.

Where to stream: ITVX

13. The Catherine Tate Show (2004-2007)

Starring: Catherine Tate, Mathew Horne, Niky Wardley

With seven BAFTA nods and cult status as one of Doctor Who’s best-loved companions, Catherine Tate is a national treasure nowadays, but she first hit the big time with this sketch comedy hit. Many of her sketches, featuring a multitude of rude, tactless and excitable characters, still regularly make the rounds on YouTube Reels and Tiktok.

So many of these characters are still instantly quotable. Lauren Cooper’s refrain ‘Am I bovvered?’ inspired a generation of teenagers (sorry, teachers!). In fact, in 2006 this catchphrase became Oxford Dictionary’s Word of the Year. The foul-mouthed ‘Nan’, multiple Christmas specials (presumably because the character is most relatable that time of year) and even a film in 2019. And if anything, the Aga Saga Woman is funnier now than ever (something we can finally thank the worsening social divide for!).

Did you know? It took three and a half hours each day for Catherine Tate to be made up as ‘Nan’.

Rewatchability rating: 6/10. Some characters and sketches are undeniably more memorable than others.

Where to stream: BBC iPlayer

12. The Inbetweeners (2008-2010)

Starring: Simon Bird, James Buckley, Blake Harrison, Joe Thomas

The award-winning sitcom The Inbetweeners made household names out of its cast, despite running for only 18 episodes and a film. Its lead Simon Bird, who played private school transfer student Will, picked up two British Comedy Awards for the role - and later scored big roles in later sitcom hits Friday Night Dinner and Everyone Else Burns. Joe Thomas too went onto further sitcom excellence with Fresh Meat, as well as starring alongside fellow Inbetweeners co-star James Buckley in White Gold. Buckley, too, went on to star as a young Del Trotter in Only Fools and Horses prequel Rock and Chips - and more recently he starred alongside Neil Morrisey in Finders Keepers. And Blake Harrison has starred in ITV sitcom Kate & Koji as well as Russell T Davies’ A Very English Scandal. In between all that, the gang have made appearances as comedians on multiple panel shows, including Taskmaster, Would I Lie To You and Celebrity Bake Off.

What made The Inbetweeners such a star-maker, compared to other teen shows of its time? Frankly, it celebrated the ordinary. Four teenage boys wrestling with hormones, bullying, and ‘lad culture’ in the callous British education system - all while cracking some killer jokes.

Did you know? House of the Dragon and Doctor Who star Matt Smith nearly won the role of Will, making it to the final two with Simon Bird. According to Inbetweeners writer Iain Morris, Smith lost out due to being “too dashing”.

Rewatchability rating: 4/10. Sadly, this one did not age brilliantly - but it really made its stars, who we can see all over popular TV today.

Where to stream: Channel 4

11. My Family (2000-2011) (2000-2011)

Starring: Robert Lindsay, Zoë Wanamaker, Kris Marshall, Daniela Denby-Ashe, Gabriel Thomson, Siobhan Hayes, Keiron Self, Rhodri Meilir, Tayler Marshall

The BAFTA-winning Robert Lindsay portrayed, in Ben Harper, everyone’s worst idea of what a dentist could be. Two-time Olivier winner Zoë Wanamaker, is his energetic control-freak wife Susan. They have three children - Nick, Janey and Michael - plus an ever revolving door of family members (and sometimes complete randoms) who need a home for a season or two. Everyone involved had a multitude of problems, possibly due to Ben’s lack of interest in the family or Susan’s overbearingness - and it made for excellent television.

My Family also wasn’t afraid of change. Following the permanent departure of Kris Marshall - who got all the best lines as the dimwitted Nick but was afraid of typecasting (he also played a similar character in Love, Actually) - the show introduced a whole menagerie of new characters to take his spare room. These included the Ben’s accident-prone cousin Abi, who later marries Ben’s dentist rival Roger, and Alfie Butts - a homeless Welshman who claimed to be Nick’s friend (spoiler: he wasn’t).

Did you know? My Family shares similarities with the classic British sitcom Butterflies (1978-1983), which was another sitcom involving a dentist called Ben. His wife, Ria, famously shared Susan’s terrible cooking skills.

Rewatchability rating: 5/10. If we’re rewatching it nowadays, it’s more for nostalgia than because we think the jokes are still good.

Where to stream: BBC iPlayer

10. Curb Your Enthusiasm (2000-2024)

Starring: Larry David, Jeff Garlin, Cheryl Hines, Susie Essman, J. B. Smoove

Despite only finishing its run in 2024, Curb Your Enthusiasm’s heyday was certainly the noughties. The sitcom aired eight consecutive seasons from 2000, and during that time won awards for its writing, direction, and the show itself. Originally conceived as a one-off, Seinfeld writer Larry David starred as a tongue-in-cheek fictionalised version of Seinfeld writer Larry David. Set in Los Angeles in the entertainment industry, the show boasted high profile guest stars including Mel Brooks, Martin Scorsese, Lucy Liu as well as, of course, the main cast of Seinfeld – Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jason Alexander, and Michael Richards.

Larry David’s brilliance, now immortalised in two of America’s greatest comedies, Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm, comes from his clever parody and self-deprecating humour. These are insightful comedies that follow a seemingly perfect formula for laughs. A top notch supporting cast also helps, with Slate particularly commending the work of Cherl Hynes and Susie Essman’s self-named characters as the perfect foil for their husbands.

Did you know? Footage from Curb Your Enthusiasm taken at the Dodgers Stadium in LA provided a crucial alibi for Juan Catalan, a man arrested for murder. The remarkable story was popularised in the 2017 Netflix documentary, Long Shot.

Rewatchability rating: 7/10. Only so low as half of the season is still pretty fresh, but those early episodes from the noughties are class.

Where to stream: Sky Go, NOW

8. The Royle Family (1998-2012)

Starring: Caroline Aherne, Craig Cash, Sue Johnston, Ralf Little, Ricky Tomlinson

Comedy star Caroline Aherne, already a BAFTA winner from her work on The Mrs Merton Show, dared to do something different with the Royle Family. Not only was it set on a council estate in Wythenshawe and in real time, it was filmed on a closed set without a live studio audience - something almost unheard of for comedy at the time.

The action was mostly set in the living room, with an ordinary Northern working class family having conversation around the television. It celebrated the mundane, sparkling with impeccable chemistry from a well seasoned cast. Alongside Aherne was her co-writer and co-star Craig Cash, as well as Sue Johnston and Ricky Tomlinson, who were fresh from playing a married couple on Brookside. Rounding out the cast was a young Ralf Little, who went on to have further comic success in Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps.

Another sitcom that started in the nineties, but celebrated its hardest hitters in the noughties. The 2006 special ‘The Queen of Sheba’ entertained more than 8 million viewers, and won the BAFTA for Best Sitcom in 2007. A second special in 2008 attracted nearly 10 million viewers. And in 2009, The Royle Family achieved its greatest ever viewing figures: 11.74 million.

Did you know? Caroline Aherne narrated Gogglebox from 2013 until her passing in 2016. Since then, Craig Cash has taken on the role.

Rewatchability rating: 7/10. It’s not as fresh as it once was, owing to the plethora of new comedies using the same structure - but if you can relate to the Royle family it’s as good as it ever was.

Where to stream: ITVX, NOW

7. I’m Alan Partridge (1997-2002)

Starring: Steve Coogan, Felicity Montagu, Simon Greenall, Phil Cornwell, Barbara Durkin, Sally Phillips, Amelia Bullmore, James Lance

Four-time BAFTA winner Steve Coogan’s Alan Partridge was observational comedy at its finest, a quietly hilarious look at a tactless, unintentionally offensive middle aged man that nobody had to walk too far to meet in real life. While he was often the butt of the joke, the show was also empathetic - humanising Partridge in a way that ensured he would remain a mainstay of British comedy. Alan Partridge was definitely a product of his time, as political correctness was a hot topic talking point in the nineties (Partridge is born and bred in Norfolk, so the memo may have reached him slightly late).

Partridge had a lasting legacy on the British comedy scene, influencing a style of cringe comedy that later gained traction with other shows on this list including Peep Show and The Inbetweeners. The character himself, despite his flaws, also became beloved. Vanity Fair described him as a “national treasure”, while Channel 4 listed him as the seventh greatest TV character in 2001.

Did you know? After five years in development, a new Alan Partridge TV series filmed in Spring 2024, titled And Did Those Feet.. With Alan Partridge, about Alan reintegrating into British life after a year working in Saudi Arabia.

Rewatchability rating: 6/10. It’s still a good show, although too gentle for modern politics. If you need a bit of nostalgia for the time when the most embarrassing person your dad could agree with was Alan Partridge however, this fits the bill.

Where to stream: ITVX, NOW

6. The Simpsons (1989 - present)

Starring: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Harry Shearer, Hank Azaria

While The Simpsons first found fame in the nineties, it wasn’t until the noughties that it became clear this show would do something no other show had - breaking all past records for longevity. Put simply, The Simpsons completely reinvented the cartoon game. In January 2000, the Simpson family was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 2004, it became America’s longest-running sitcom. By 2009, it was the world’s longest running sitcom. The series won all three of its British Comedy Awards (and garnered a further nomination) in the noughties. It won 10 of its 36 Primetime Emmys in the noughties (and was nominated for 16 more).

Today, the show is ingrained in comedy culture. Everybody has seen at least some of The Simpsons, and everyone knows Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie. Such is its ability to stay relevant and make period appropriate jokes, The Simpsons has famously inadvertently predicted the future a number of times - most notably the inauguration of reality star Donald Trump as Prime Minister.

Did you know? Comic Book Guy is based on The Simpsons creator Matt Groening, who said: “He's the way I think I look to other people."

Rewatchability rating: 9/10. Like (probably) any show with 700+ episodes, some episodes are better than others. Those early seasons are still efficient fuel for nostalgia, though.

Where to stream: Disney+

5. Gavin and Stacey (2007-2010, with specials ongoing)

Starring: Mathew Horne, Joanna Page, James Corden, Ruth Jones, Alison Steadman, Larry Lamb, Melanie Walters, Rob Brydon

While an excellent comedy in its own right, Gavin and Stacey might well be remembered as the making of the love-him-or-hate-him comedy giant that is James Corden. Since writing, performing and winning awards for Gavin and Stacey, Corden’s won stage and screen awards of the highest calibre. He even managed something British comedians rarely do: conquering America, where he hosted The Late Late Show with James Corden from 2015 to 2023.

It’s worth stepping away from Corden, however, to pay tribute to a well-written and unpretentious family sitcom about a young (titular) couple who find love, despite living on opposite sides of the UK. Corden’s co-writer Ruth Jones, went on to win a BAFTA for her work on Sky One comedy Stella. Gavin and Stacey regularly makes pollsters lists of best ever British sitcoms, and a Christmas Day special in 2019 scored a mega 18.49 million viewers. A second, and final Christmas special, is set to air in 2024 - expecting to tie up 2019’s loose ends, mainly, a proposal of the utmost importance.

Did you know? The Shipmans and the Wests are named after British serial killers Dr. Harold Shipman and Fred West. Pete Sutcliffe is also named after The Yorkshire Ripper.

Rewatchability rating: 8/10. We’ll definitely be rewatching after the Christmas special in 2024.

Where to stream: BBC iPlayer, NOW

4. The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019)

Starring: Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Mayim Bialik, Melissa Rauch

Running for 12 seasons, 279 episodes, and 239 award nominations (including four Emmys, two Critics' Choice Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and three People's Choice Awards specifically for Jim Parsons), The Big Bang Theory deserves some credit for bringing nerd culture to the mainstream. Like Friends, The Big Bang Theory’s cast became the highest paid in television - making $1 million per episode by season eight (according to Forbes).

The breakout star of The Big Bang Theory was undeniably Jim Parsons as Sheldon, an ASD-coded theoretical physicist who liked things done, uh shall we say, a certain way. Parson’s seemingly effortless portrayal of Sheldon’s intransigent personality made for endless, easy laughs. His success spawned the long-running prequel Young Sheldon in 2017, which itself spawned a new spin-off Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage in 2024.

The show was about more than Sheldon, however. It wrote scientists in such a way that audiences of all backgrounds could relate. It portrayed geek culture - playing DnD, attending Comic Con, and regular trips to the Comic Book Store - with love (and had the added bonus of some cult icon guest cast members). It made the clever decision to put Penny, a very obvious audience insert, straight in the middle of the action to ask the obvious questions. Importantly, it wasn’t afraid of evolution, something necessary over the course of 12 years. By series twelve, most of the characters were married (sorry Raj!) and some even had kids of their own.

Did you know? Ironically, the first time Star Wars legends James Earl Jones (Darth Vader) and Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia) met in real life was on the set of The Big Bang Theory.

Rewatchability rating: 6/10. Some of the early seasons aged very badly, with a definite dip in quality in the middle of the series.

Where to stream: Netflix

3. The Thick of It (2005-2012)

Starring: Peter Capaldi, Chris Langham, Rebecca Front, Chris Addison, Joanna Scanlan, James Smith

The brainchild of Emmy Award-winning writer Armando Iannucci, who created the show as a (then) modern take on 1980s political comedy Yes Minister. Future twelfth doctor Peter Capaldi starred as Malcolm Tucker, an expletive-charged spin doctor for the government, who was based on Labour politician Alastair Campbell. Capaldi’s acclaimed performance saw him win multiple British Comedy Awards, and fans of Tucker’s rants included Hollywood superstars Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.

Worryingly, The Thick of It was regularly credited for its realism, and according to the Telegraphs, MPs described the show as containing “more than a grain of truth”. It became so influential that real life politicians started quoting from it, and the word ‘omnishambles’ (meaning complete and continually shambolic) entered the popular lexicon when Ed Miliband used it at Prime Ministers’ Questions in 2012. Policies improvised by actors on the show, such as everyone needing their own plastic bag at shops, later became law.

Did you know? The show famously hired a swearing consultant, Ian Martin, to ensure the expletives remained creative and unique. Martin later won an Emmy for his writing on American series Veep.

Rewatchability rating: 8/10. Politics is more interesting now than ever, although nowadays The Thick of It looks a little tame. In 2021, Capaldi famously declared Malcolm Tucker “too good” for modern day politics.

Where to stream: BBC iPlayer, ITVX

2. Outnumbered (2007-2014, with specials ongoing)

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Starring: Claire Skinner, Hugh Dennis, Tyger Drew-Honey, Daniel Roche, Ramona Marquez

Described by The Times’ Bryan Appleyard as “the best British sitcom in years and among the best ever,” Outnumbered combined the low key, mundane realities of family life with razor sharp comic performances born of semi-improvised performances from its young actors.

It starred Mock the Week panelist and comedian Hugh Dennis and Life Begins Claire Skinner as the parents of three vivacious kids (the pair would later become a couple in real life). The real stars, however, were Tyger Drew-Honey, Daniel Roche, Ramona Marquez, child actors who improvised their lines given some direction. This created the kind of comedy genius that an adult just couldn’t write. Series creator Guy Jenkin said of the casting: “You rarely get the feeling that children in sitcoms are real.” Well, they solved that problem.

Did you know? Hugh Dennis' real first name is Peter, just like his Outnumbered character. He uses his middle name Hugh as a stage name as there was already a Peter Dennis registered with British Actors Union Equity when he started his career, and that Peter was head of the Equity name change committee.

Rewatchability rating: 9/10. If you’re lucky enough to be able to forget some of the one-liners, it’s a real treat watching them again.

Where to stream: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, ITVX

1. Friends (1994-2004)

Starring: Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer

There is no other comedy quite like the behemoth that was Friends in the noughties. Regularly reaching viewerships of more than 30 million, the series peaked with its finale in 2004 with 52.46 American viewers. By that time, the show boasted 236 globally distributed episodes and its stars were the highest paid actors in television (raking in $1 million per episode).

Remarkably, 20 years later in 2024, Friendsmania still exists. Since being added to Netflix’s libraries in 2015, the show has reached a whole new audience. Nielsen (America’s version of BARB) reported Friends was responsible for 4% of all Netflix views in 2018. That same year, USA Today reported Warner Bros still made $1 billions worth of revenue per year from the franchise - translating into $20 million for each of its stars in syndication income. In Summer 2024, The Friends Experience - a tribute to the series with replica sets, props and costumes - launched in London’s Excel Centre for a six month run. It already runs in New York, Boston and Las Vegas.

So why is Friends such a timeless hit? Firstly, the scripts of the writing duo David Crane and Marta Kauffman were packed with sharp humour and relatable characters and circumstances. Secondly, an likable cast of actors with impeccable chemistry with one another. And thirdly, it depicted the transition from one’s late twenties to early thirties with painfully accurate relatability - we lived, laughed and loved with Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler and Ross. They weren’t just each other’s friends - they were ours too.

Did you know? Phoebe’s song ‘Smelly Cat’ was invented by Lisa Kudrow and a friend while they were drunk - it was only later that it was written into the show.

Rewatchability rating: 8/10. Every year, the jokes get more and more dated. And yet we’re still watching.

Where to stream: Netflix