Step back in time to the groovy 1970s and discover the top British sitcoms that will have you rolling on the floor with laughter! These shows are a hilarious blend of wacky physical comedy and unapologetically cheeky jokes. Some of them even made their way across the pond and were adapted for American audiences!
Prepare for a riotous time with the absolute gem of the era, Fawlty Towers. Starring the incomparable John Cleese as the one and only Basil Fawlty, this side-splitting series had viewers in stitches from 1975 to 1979. Another standout show from the swinging ’70s is Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads?, which had everyone glued to their TV screens in merry ol’ Britain.
Hold onto your funny bones as Porridge takes you on a hilarious journey behind bars, showcasing the lighter side of prison life. And that’s just the beginning! Last of the Summer Wine, Man About the House, and The Good Life are all timeless British sitcoms that will keep you chuckling for days on end.
Ready to dive into the uproarious world of ’70s British comedy? Join us on this journey and discover your new favorite TV shows that will have you in stitches from start to finish.
1. Fawlty Towers
Fawlty Towers is a brilliantly crafted farce that stars the incomparable John Cleese as Basil Fawlty, the perpetually flustered and hapless hotel manager. It’s a sitcom that has only twelve episodes in its two-series run, but let me tell you, those episodes are a masterclass in comedic timing. Every cast member delivers strong performances, including Prunella Scales as Sybil Fawlty and Andrew Sachs as the bumbling waiter Manuel.
Even today, Fawlty Towers remains a timeless classic and one of the most beloved British comedies. It’s easy to see why – the humor is top-notch, the characters are unforgettable, and the entire show is just pure entertainment. If you haven’t watched it yet, do yourself a favor and give it a go. You won’t be disappointed.
Premiered: September 19, 1975
Actors: John Cleese, Prunella Scales, Connie Booth
2. Porridge
Step into the world of HM Slade Prison, where the legendary Ronnie Barker brings to life the unforgettable character of inmate Norman Stanley Fletcher in the iconic series, Porridge. This BAFTA-winning show masterfully blends humor and heartwarming moments, all while shedding light on the harsh realities of prison life. And let’s not forget the memorable supporting cast, including the brilliant Richard Beckinsale as Lennie Godber, who adds an authentic touch to the overall atmosphere. Porridge truly captures the essence of 1970s Britain, offering a poignant yet entertaining glimpse into that era.
Premiered: September 5, 1974
Actors: Ronnie Barker, Brian Wilde, Fulton Mackay
3. Are You Being Served?
Are You Being Served? is a sitcom that takes place in a department store. It has a bunch of quirky characters, with Mrs Slocombe (played by Mollie Sugden) being the snobby yet lovable lead, known for her fancy wigs. The show is filled with innuendos and funny interactions with customers, making it a great example of British humor. It’s been on for quite a while and is still loved by many, so much so that it recently came back and has even been adapted for the stage a few times.
Premiered: September 8, 1972
Actors: Trevor Bannister, John Inman, Wendy Richard
4. Dad’s Army
Dad’s Army, a beloved British sitcom, has gained immense popularity over the years. With nine series under its belt and a string of awards to its name, it truly stands out among its peers. The show revolves around the adventures of Captain Mainwaring, portrayed brilliantly by Arthur Lowe, and his trusty sidekick Sergeant Wilson, played by John Le Mesurier. Together, they lead a ragtag group of Home Guard soldiers during the tumultuous times of World War II.
What sets Dad’s Army apart is its unique combination of slapstick comedy and clever banter. The show effortlessly weaves together hilarious physical comedy with sharp and witty dialogue. In doing so, it not only entertains its audience but also manages to capture the essence of national pride and government incompetence during that era. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the series that it continues to enchant viewers with its nostalgic charm and light-hearted humor.
Premiered: July 31, 1968
Actors: Arthur Lowe, John Le Mesurier, Clive Dunn
5. The Good Life
This sitcom is all about Tom and Barbara Good, a suburban couple played by Richard Briers and Felicity Kendal, who make the bold decision to live a self-sufficient lifestyle. The show delves into important topics like environmentalism and counter-culture, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. One of the reasons it continues to be loved today is the incredible chemistry between the two lead actors. With its mix of comedy, warmth, and social commentary, The Good Life remains a hit.
Premiered: April 4, 1975
Actors: Richard Briers, Felicity Kendal, Penelope Keith
6. On the Buses
A lighthearted workplace comedy called On the Buses revolves around the hilarious adventures of bus driver Stan Butler, played by Reg Varney, and his trusty conductor Jack Harper, portrayed by Bob Grant. The show delves into the everyday challenges they face dealing with passengers, management, and even their own personal lives. As Stan and Jack crack jokes left and right, we also get a glimpse into Stan’s home life, complete with his nagging mother played by Cicely Courtneidge and his flirtatious sister Olive, brought to life by Anna Karen. The show’s immense popularity even led to several film spin-offs in the 1970s.
Premiered: February 28, 1969
Actors: Anna Karen, Bob Grant, Reg Varney
7. The Two Ronnies
The Two Ronnies, featuring Ronnie Barker and Ronnie Corbett, showcased their comedic talents through a variety of characters and skits. This hilarious duo not only captured the hearts of viewers but also proved their versatility as actors. With a perfect blend of clever wordplay and visual humor, the show quickly became a Saturday night favorite for over ten years. Even today, their undeniable chemistry continues to bring joy to audiences who revisit this timeless and beloved sketch show.
Premiered: 1971
Actors: Ronnie Barker, Ronnie Corbett
8. Open All Hours
Ronnie Barker’s incredible talent takes center stage in Open All Hours. Barker plays Arkwright, a penny-pinching shopkeeper who is always plotting to boost his profits. The sitcom’s charm lies in the delightful performances of Barker and David Jason as Granville, his hardworking nephew and assistant. With its eccentric characters and heartwarming humor, this show quickly won over viewers and became a favorite. Its popularity was so enduring that it even led to the creation of a revival series called Still Open All Hours in 2013.
Premiered: February 20, 1976
Actors: Ronnie Barker, David Jason, Lynda Baron
9. Monty Python’s Flying Circus
Monty Python’s Flying Circus was a game-changing sketch comedy show that had a lasting impact on British humor. With a talented ensemble cast including John Cleese, Michael Palin, Terry Jones, Eric Idle, and Graham Chapman, this show broke new ground. It was known for its outrageousness and sharp satire, pushing the boundaries of television comedy during its time. The influence of this comedic troupe on modern comedy is undeniable. Their iconic sketches and feature films, like Monty Python and the Holy Grail, have left a lasting mark on the comedy landscape.
Premiered: October 5, 1969
Actors: John Cleese, Terry Jones, Graham Chapman
10. Bless This House
Bless This House” is a family sitcom that brings together the ever-popular Sid James as the witty salesman Sid Abbott and Diana Coupland as his wife Jean. This delightful comedy ventures into the amusing generational differences between parents and their teenage children. It skillfully tackles relatable themes like misunderstandings, teenage rebellion, and those typical spats that arise within marriages. Audiences who appreciate a lighthearted approach to the everyday struggles of family life will find this show truly endearing
Premiered: 1971
Actors: Sid James, Patsy Rowlands, Sally Geeson
11. Man About the House
Centring on flatmates Chrissy (Paula Wilcox), Jo (Sally Thomsett), and Robin (Richard O’Sullivan), Man About the House was a groundbreaking sitcom that dared to challenge gender stereotypes. It broke new ground by showcasing a male character living with two women. The talented cast, including all three leads, delivered unforgettable performances that captivated audiences. The show’s popularity even gave rise to two successful spin-offs: George & Mildred and Robin’s Nest. This forward-thinking series is still cherished today for its delightful humor and thought-provoking social commentary.
Premiered: 1973
Actors: Richard O’Sullivan, Yootha Joyce, Sally Thomsett
