Was Friends the Greatest Sitcom of all time?

[Tony Montana]

I Personally think it is. It's the only Show where i can rewatch episodes countless times and never get bored.


https://az616578.vo.msecnd.net/files/2016/03/23/635943037727964722-697981042_friends___milkshakes_by_mariomj71099.jpg

[AnnieK]

I Personally think it is. It's the only Show where i can rewatch episodes countless times and never get bored.

Yeah, pretty much agree. I love Friends and weirdly loads of things that happen in my life I can refer back to episodes

[Tony Montana]

Yeah, pretty much agree. I love Friends and weirdly loads of things that happen in my life I can refer back to episodes

Glad you agree. It's just a Timeless Classic.

[Baby Jane]

A very unpopular opinion that I'm very aware could lead to me getting ostracised and leaving the forum hanging my head in shame on only the second day, but I've never "got" Friends. I just don't really see the appeal, apart from the odd line here and there. I've seen a lot of the episodes due to an obsession with it in my household but I think I've only ever laughed a few times.

I am totally in love with Joey though, I'll give them that.

[RileyH]

Haven't seen it tbh

My friend says it's good tho

[AnnieK]

A very unpopular opinion that I'm very aware could lead to me getting ostracised and leaving the forum hanging my head in shame on only the second day, but I've never "got" Friends. I just don't really see the appeal, apart from the odd line here and there. I've seen a lot of the episodes due to an obsession with it in my household but I think I've only ever laughed a few times.

I am totally in love with Joey though, I'll give them that.

Lol, I don't think you'll be ostracized for that opinion (as wrong as it is :laugh:) one of my friends feels the same way and despite me trying to educate her in the delicate intricacies of it, she's like nope just don't get the attraction so you are not alone.

[Denver]

Haven't seen it tbh

My friend says it's good tho

https://media1.giphy.com/media/4Q3piFIwtkDCUL92Rl/200w.webp

[Tony Montana]

Haven't seen it tbh

My friend says it's good tho

Your Friend is Correct and You Need to Watch it ASAP, Riley.

[Barry.]

Riley never seen Friends?? It’s great!

[Daniel.]

Absolutely Fabulous

[Denver]

Absolutely Fabulous

Friends wasnt that good?

[Daniel.]

Lol

[Baby Jane]

It's the British sitcoms I love. We don't get it right often, but when we do, they're timeless.

[Alf]

No, it wasn't!

[Daniel.]

It's the British sitcoms I love. We don't get it right often, but when we do, they're timeless.

Ab Fab and Keeping Up Appearances

[AnnieK]

Could you be any more wrong?

[montblanc]

i like it & watched it in full like 3 times but i wouldn't consider it one of the greatest

[Tony Montana]

No, it wasn't!

What other Sitcoms were better in your Opinion, Alf?

[GiRTh]

I dont even think its the best sitcoms of the 90's.

The first three series were good, series four it was already dipping. From series five to the point where Chandler and Monica get married I think there are some episodes that are almost unwatchable for me. Its too much comedy and not enough quality control - It like say a funny line then pull a funny face then do a funny walk - and I barely crack a smile during those episode. It did pick up and I think it ended strong but the unwatchable episodes kill this argument, for me.

[Tom4784]

It's ****.

[Tony Montana]

I dont even think its the best sitcoms of the 90's.

The first three series were good, series four it was already dipping. From series five to the point where Chandler and Monica get married I think there are some episodes that are almost unwatchable for me. Its too much comedy and not enough quality control - It like say a funny line then pull a funny face then do a funny walk - and I barely crack a smile during those episode. It did pick up and I think it ended strong but the unwatchable episodes kill this argument, for me.

What other Sitcoms were better in your Opinion?

[GiRTh]

What other Sitcoms were better in your Opinion?American sitcoms in the 90's alone - Seinfeld, Larry Sanders Show, Frasier and even though I was not much of a fan I think Roseanne was also better.

[Alf]

What other Sitcoms were better in your Opinion, Alf?I'll give you 15 and if you want anymore, just ask.

Steptoe and Son
Dad's Army
One Foot in the Grave
Rising Damp
Till Death us do Part
Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads
Allo Allo
Fawlty Towers
Porridge
Only Fools and Horses
Still Game
Hancocks Half Hour
It Ain't Half Hot Mum
Blackadder
Royle Family

[Fetch The Bolt Cutters]

I'll give you 15 and if you want anymore, just ask.

Steptoe and Son
Dad's Army
One Foot in the Grave
Rising Damp
Till Death us do Part
Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads
Allo Allo
Fawlty Towers
Porridge
Only Fools and Horses
Still Game
Hancocks Half Hour
It Ain't Half Hot Mum
Blackadder
Royle Family

This list makes me sad :(

[GiRTh]

This list makes me sad :(That list makes me feel old.

[Denver]

This list makes me sad :(

Good sad pr bad sad

[Denver]

Royle Family is GOAT

[Alf]

This list makes me sad :(Well then cheer yourself up by watching these shows, instead of looking at them on a list.

[GiRTh]

I'll give you 15 and if you want anymore, just ask.

Steptoe and Son
Dad's Army
One Foot in the Grave
Rising Damp
Till Death us do Part
Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads
Allo Allo
Fawlty Towers
Porridge
Only Fools and Horses
Still Game
Hancocks Half Hour
It Ain't Half Hot Mum
Blackadder
Royle Family
:umm2:

[Alf]

That list makes me feel old.They don't make em' like they used too. I wish they did.

[Alf]

:umm2:Sort him out LT

[Epic.]

One of the best but it's not my absolute favourite.

[Oliver_W]

This might sound ... weird, but Vicar of Dibley always made me feel sad and depressed and lonely.

I'll give you 15 and if you want anymore, just ask.
One Foot in the Grave
Fawlty Towers
Blackadder

Love these <3

For old sitcoms I'd add the George and Mildred universe, Jeeves and Wooster, Father Ted, and My Family:)

[GiRTh]

Sort him out LTIt was a good list otherwise :joker:

Do you remember a couple of Judy Dench sitcoms - A fine Romance and As Time goes by. Two gentle comedies but two of the best I've ever seen. I always thought it weird that people dont think of Dame Judy as a comedy actress but she was in two of my all time faves.

[Calderyon]

It is Always Sunny in Philadelphia is.

[Blue cat]

Bottom is the greatest.

[Baby Jane]

I have a massive soft spot for Gavin & Stacey.

And I love Two Pints of Lager!

[Brother Leon]

It isn’t Seinfield so no..

[Alf]

It was a good list otherwise :joker:

Do you remember a couple of Judy Dench sitcoms - A fine Romance and As Time goes by. Two gentle comedies but two of the best I've ever seen. I always thought it weird that people dont think of Dame Judy as a comedy actress but she was in two of my all time faves.Still Game is fantastic, easilly the best British sitcom of this century.

I remember the theme tune to A Fine Romance, but never watched it, and don't have any plans too. As Time Goes by is ok, I like Geoffrey Palmer in most things I've seen him in. Written by Bob Larbey, who also wrote The Good Life and Ever decreasing circles.

[Glenn.]

It is of course the best.

[Matthew.]

yep

[GiRTh]

Still Game is fantastic, easilly the best British sitcom of this century.

I remember the theme tune to A Fine Romance, but never watched it, and don't have any plans too. As Time Goes by is ok, I like Geoffrey Palmer in most things I've seen him in. Written by Bob Larbey, who also wrote The Good Life and Ever decreasing circles.Yeah Larbey did those with John Esmonde and Please Sir too. I think these shows he did without Esmonde are just as good.

Never was a fan of Still Game. Just never really got into it.

I note you put Whatever happened to but not the original Likely Lads. I agree Whatever happened was better but I think the Original Likely Lads deserves a mention too. I remember watching a documentary where LaFrenais and Clement said they thought of a third incarnation of the show set in about 2010 where the scenario was reversed in that Bob had made then lost a fortune during the boom and then 2008 crash while Terry had been successfully scamming an insurance injury for years. As I recall hey had it planned but Rodney Bewes and James Bolam were opposed. It would have been a great series and obviously cant do it now with Bewes dying just last year.

[Alf]

Yeah Larbey did those with John Esmonde and Please Sir too. I think these shows he did without Esmonde are just as good.

Never was a fan of Still Game. Just never really got into it.

I note you put Whatever happened to but not the original Likely Lads. I agree Whatever happened was better but I think the Original Likely Lads deserves a mention too. I remember watching a documentary where LaFrenais and Clement said they thought of a third incarnation of the show set in about 2010 where the scenario was reversed in that Bob had made then lost a fortune during the boom and then 2008 crash while Terry had been successfully scamming an insurance injury for years. As I recall hey had it planned but Rodney Bewes and James Bolam were opposed. It would have been a great series and obviously cant do it now with Bewes dying just last year.I was gonna do Likely Lads/Whatever Happened ect. Whatever Happened was much superior, and there's only about 10 or 11 episodes remaining of the original series.

I wouldn't like to see Terry Successful, it wouldn't suit him, although he'd probably blow his success in one episode. Bolam hated Bewes in real life by all accounts, that may be a reason it didn't happen.

[GiRTh]

I was gonna do Likely Lads/Whatever Happened ect. Whatever Happened was much superior, and there's only about 10 or 11 episodes remaining of the original series.

I wouldn't like to see Terry Successful, it wouldn't suit him, although he'd probably blow his success in one episode. Bolam hated Bewes in real life by all accounts, that may be a reason it didn't happen.I wonder how their politics would have changed with their role reversal cuz it was always a big cause of their friction. Always been a big fan of these shows and I think it would have been probably the best incarnation and would have put the series nicely to bed.

[michael21]

I Personally think it is. It's the only Show where i can rewatch episodes countless times and never get bored.


https://az616578.vo.msecnd.net/files/2016/03/23/635943037727964722-697981042_friends___milkshakes_by_mariomj71099.jpg

I want sex with rachel green hope that helps :shrug::laugh:

[Alf]

This might sound ... weird, but Vicar of Dibley always made me feel sad and depressed and lonely.


Love these <3

For old sitcoms I'd add the George and Mildred universe, Jeeves and Wooster, Father Ted, and My Family:)Love George & Mildred. Father Ted is great. Not seen Jeeves and Wooster, but I think I should check it out and will add it to my to-watch list. My family isn't my cuppa.

[Oliver_W]

Love George & Mildred. Father Ted is great. Not seen Jeeves and Wooster, but I think I should check it out and will add it to my to-watch list. My family isn't my cuppa.

This is my favourite episode of J&W https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKpJQnVBj-w <3 give it a watch and let me know what you think!

[Alf]

I wonder how their politics would have changed with their role reversal cuz it was always a big cause of their friction. Always been a big fan of these shows and I think it would have been probably the best incarnation and would have put the series nicely to bed.I imagine Terry would have abandoned his labour roots, he definitely would be a leave voter, and probably on the Farage train.

Bob would be a remainer, probably a Blairite.

[LaLaLand]

I've always thought it was ****, even when it was on when I was a kid. Don't think I've ever watched a full episode.

[Tony Montana]

Damn the yes and Nowhere near polls are neck and neck. Seems we have a serious debate going on guys

[rusticgal]

American sitcoms are so cheesy...but Friends was brilliant. A bit 'robotic' in the first few episodes but then the characters came into their own and it was brilliant. Me and my boys can watch it time and time again and we just love it.

[RileyH]

serious debate

triggered

[Alf]

This is my favourite episode of J&W https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKpJQnVBj-w <3 give it a watch and let me know what you think!I'll give a watch sometime, I'll start from the first episode.

[Oliver_W]

I'll give a watch sometime, I'll start from the first episode.

The one I linked was the second, so you'd get to it soon enough :dance:

[Tony Montana]

That list makes me feel old.

American sitcoms are so cheesy...but Friends was brilliant. A bit 'robotic' in the first few episodes but then the characters came into their own and it was brilliant. Me and my boys can watch it time and time again and we just love it.

The rewatch ability is probably the best for a sitcom. I can watch it over and over again and never get bored

[James]

One of the best I think, but it went on too long. It declined when Chandler and Monica moved in together.

I only got into it later (with repeats) - I didn't like the look of it when it started.

I haven't watched American sitcoms much - I think the only other ones I watched were Happy Days and Larry Sanders.

I'll give you 15 and if you want anymore, just ask.

Steptoe and Son
Dad's Army
One Foot in the Grave
Rising Damp
Till Death us do Part
Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads
Allo Allo
Fawlty Towers
Porridge
Only Fools and Horses
Still Game
Hancocks Half Hour
It Ain't Half Hot Mum
Blackadder
Royle Family

A lot of those are classics. I've watched about half of them. Apart from Dads' Army and Fawlty Towers I haven't watched 70s and earlier sitcoms.

[GiRTh]

I imagine Terry would have abandoned his labour roots, he definitely would be a leave voter, and probably on the Farage train.

Bob would be a remainer, probably a Blairite.You think their politics would have changed so much? I would hope they hardly changed and Terry is a Corbynite while Bob is defending the Tories and blaming Blair and Brown for his predicament. I think we agree it would have been fascinating to bring these characters back.

[Alf]

One of the best I think, but it went on too long. It declined when Chandler and Monica moved in together.

I only got into it later (with repeats) - I didn't like the look of it when it started.

I haven't watched American sitcoms much - I think the only other ones I watched were Happy Days and Larry Sanders.



A lot of those are classics. I've watched about half of them. Apart from Dads' Army and Fawlty Towers I haven't watched 70s and earlier sitcoms.It's never too late, I bought the Steptoe and Son boxset about 10 years ago and after watching it I thought "were have you been all my life?" From that day, I made collecting British sitcoms my hobby and it still is today.

You can probably find most on YT or you can buy boxsets. The 70s was the Golden era of British Sitcom, when the British ruled the World in sitcom.

[Alf]

You think their politics would have changed so much? I would hope they hardly changed and Terry is a Corbynite while Bob is defending the Tories and blaming Blair and Brown for his predicament. I think we agree it would have been fascinating to bring these characters back.Well Terry was a "Little Englander" So would have wanted out of the EU, and like a lot of working class, he'd feel Labour had abandoned him, and he'd be championing Farage.

[Shaun]

Absolutely not. It's mediocre at best.

Not even the best 90s American sitcom beginning with 'Fr'

[LaLaLand]

In terms of 90's US sitcoms, like Seinfeld, Frasier, The Golden Girls, Will & Grace even Mad About You all top Friends... [imo]

[GiRTh]

Well Terry was a "Little Englander" So would have wanted out of the EU, and like a lot of working class, he'd feel Labour had abandoned him, and he'd be championing Farage.But he never wanted to work, spent most of each series unemployed and is now rich. I disagree but I do think he would be the more interesting of the two characters.

Bob, I think is easier, I think he would have been now very Tory and certainly blaming Blair and Brown for everything so for Terry to be so similar may affect the longevity of the series. Of course all of this is hypothetical.

[Eddie.]

From what I’ve seen, I really liked it. I need to get into it sometime soon...

[Tony Montana]

From what I’ve seen, I really liked it. I need to get into it sometime soon...

I guarantee you won't be disappointed

[Mokka]

I'm firmly taking a stance in the middle on this issue.... it's great... it's one of the greats... but it isn't the greatest.

[Tony Montana]

I'm firmly taking a stance in the middle on this issue.... it's great... it's one of the greats... but it isn't the greatest.

Fair Enough

[Mokka]

American sitcoms are so cheesy...but Friends was brilliant. A bit 'robotic' in the first few episodes but then the characters came into their own and it was brilliant. Me and my boys can watch it time and time again and we just love it.

My son's like it more than I do lol... I catch them rewatching it on Netflix... along with the office... all the time. I find it interesting that 20 years on it can capture the attention of my teens.

[Tony Montana]

My son's like it more than I do lol... I catch them rewatching it on Netflix... along with the office... all the time. I find it interesting that 20 years on it can capture the attention of my teens.

it's a Timeless Classic and a One of a Kind

[LukeB]

Ofc it is! It’s hilarious

[Tony Montana]

Ofc it is! It’s hilarious

Knew i could count on you, Luke:love:

[kirklancaster]

Friends is a great sit-com and - for me - is very cleverly constructed and polished, but Frasier is my favourite.

I agree with Alf about most of the British comedies on his list though.

[Jake.]

I love it, but no. The tail end of Series 3 through Series 4 was genuinely fantastic. 5-6 were still funny but no real storylines developed. 9-10 are both pretty dire in retrospect, just one celeb cameo after another with each episode going for a shock tactic. The characters became caricatures of themselves to the point of being unlikeable.

[AnnieK]

Absolutely not. It's mediocre at best.

Not even the best 90s American sitcom beginning with 'Fr'

And I so wanted to recreate it when I teach you to ride your bike Shaun..... I bought you a bike with a basket and tassles on the handlebars and everything........sooo disappointed now

[Niamh.]

Father Ted is the winner I'm afraid but Friends is the best of the American ones I think

[The Slim Reaper]

The office (UK) is clearly the greatest comedy of all time.

[Kazanne]

Never ever watched an episode so cant really comment,but I agree with some of Alfs list were excellent.

[Niamh.]

The office (UK) is clearly the greatest comedy of all time.

https://media3.giphy.com/media/12lRRu4nvKcda/giphy.gif

[Tony Montana]

Never ever watched an episode so cant really comment,but I agree with some of Alfs list were excellent.

Watch it ASAP, you won’t be disappointed

[Nicky91]

yes

[The Slim Reaper]

https://media3.giphy.com/media/12lRRu4nvKcda/giphy.gif

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/77/86/87/778687dda6f0e35be0ca2eaba068fc48.png

[user104658]

It clearly is the greatest. It's not the funniest or the most consistent or even necessarily my own personal favourite; but that's not the question. There simply isn't another sitcom that has been the same international and intergenerational phenomenon or even close.

[Crimson Dynamo]

Absolutely Fabulous

reported

[Crimson Dynamo]

It clearly is the greatest. It's not the funniest or the most consistent or even necessarily my own personal favourite; but that's not the question. There simply isn't another sitcom that has been the same international and intergenerational phenomenon or even close.

apart from Seinfeld which was more ground breaking and funnier

[Crimson Dynamo]

This list makes me sad :(

mainly because you have never seen any of them one would imagine?

[Niamh.]

apart from Seinfeld which was more ground breaking and funnier

Meh Friends held my interest Seinfeld never did, I find the characters in it really annoying

[Nicky91]

reported

Ab Fab dislike detected :omgno:

[Niamh.]

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/77/86/87/778687dda6f0e35be0ca2eaba068fc48.png

https://media0.giphy.com/media/Ha0d2u03EkhWM/giphy.gif

[user104658]

I'll give you 15 and if you want anymore, just ask.

Steptoe and Son
Dad's Army
One Foot in the Grave
Rising Damp
Till Death us do Part
Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads
Allo Allo
Fawlty Towers
Porridge
Only Fools and Horses
Still Game
Hancocks Half Hour
It Ain't Half Hot Mum
Blackadder
Royle Family


The ones in bold are brilliant, the rest are entirely limited to the (now ageing) generation that they were aimed at and have not really stood the test of time, other than nostalgically for the people who remember them in their prime, so I don't think are contenders for "true" objective greatness (although everyone is of course entitled to their personal greats).

[Crimson Dynamo]

Meh Friends held my interest Seinfeld never did, I find the characters in it really annoying

http://cdn.ebaumsworld.com/mediaFiles/picture/2321150/83551147.gif

[GiRTh]

Meh Friends held my interest Seinfeld never did, I find the characters in it really annoying
I think they were supposed to be annoying or possibly neurotic. Seinfeld kills Friends IMO in just about every department I can think of. I recall when Friends started many pundits dubbed Friends a poor mans Seinfeld.

[Niamh.]

http://cdn.ebaumsworld.com/mediaFiles/picture/2321150/83551147.gif

Point proven

http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_mes4elmHyz1qkjvfg.gif

[Niamh.]

I think they were supposed to be annoying or possibly neurotic. Seinfeld kills Friends IMO in just about every department I can think of. I recall when Friends started many pundits dubbed Friends a poor mans Seinfeld.

Which is why I preferred Friends, I stayed watching because I loved the characters in it, if I don't like any of the characters in a show, I'll just lose interest (and my humour is clearly more low brow and less intelligent :fan: )

[user104658]

apart from Seinfeld which was more ground breaking and funnier

Huge audience but nowhere near as broad in terms of demographic, plus Seinfeld himself is an annoying egotistical arsehole. And "Bee Movie" is just unforgiveable. My youngest loves it. I just can't.

[Crimson Dynamo]

tackling stuff head on years before even alternative comedians did

xr7NJ8UujSo

[GiRTh]

Which is why I preferred Friends, I stayed watching because I loved the characters in it, if I don't like any of the characters in a show, I'll just lose interest (and my humour is clearly more low brow and less intelligent :fan: )Fair point. So did you not watch all of Seinfeld cuz there are some episodes that are truly inspired.

[Niamh.]

Huge audience but nowhere near as broad in terms of demographic, plus Seinfeld himself is an annoying egotistical arsehole. And "Bee Movie" is just unforgiveable. My youngest loves it. I just can't.

:clap1:

[GiRTh]

He may well be an egostistical arsehole but his sitcom was one of the best ever.

[Niamh.]

Fair point. So did you not watch all of Seinfeld cuz there are some episodes that are truly inspired.

No I didn't, that's what I was saying, I just could never warm to any of the characters enough to keep me coming back or really get into it

[GiRTh]

No I didn't, that's what I was saying, I just could never warm to any of the characters enough to keep me coming back or really get into itI agree with this. Even Larry David says he cannot watch some of the very early episodes. They are quite difficult to watch but it was the style that kept me interested. Particularly when they were still bookending each episode with snippets of Seinfeld stand up.

[kirklancaster]

https://media3.giphy.com/media/12lRRu4nvKcda/giphy.gif

:joker:

[Niamh.]

I agree with this. Even Larry David says he cannot watch some of the very early episodes. They are quite difficult to watch but it was the style that kept me interested. Particularly when they were still bookending each episode with snippets of Seinfeld stand up.

For me it was missing the charm that Friends had

[Crimson Dynamo]

The Rise and Fall of Reginald Perrin and then the Fall and Rise was an inspired sitcom of its time, some members like say Cherie will recall it.


In this clip Reggie meets a young Kirk and finds out what type of thread topics he will be making in the second quarter of 2018

Xb82v7wh1Fw

[GiRTh]

For me it was missing the charm that Friends hadNow you're losing me cuz I dont agree with that at all. :joker: 'No hugs no learning' was for a reason.

There are a few later episodes of Friends that are definite Seinfeld rip offs. In particular, as I recall, around the time we find out Ross is the father of Rachels baby there are few episode that made me think they'd employed a Seinfeld scriptwriter. The episode with the Videotape is clearly in the Seinfeld style.

[GiRTh]

The Rise and Fall of Reginald Perrin and then the Fall and Rise was an inspired sitcom of its time, some members like say Cherie will recall it.


In this clip Reggie meets a young Kirk and finds out what type of thread topics he will be making in the second quarter of 2018

Xb82v7wh1FwAnd me. A bit depressing though dont you think. The whole concept?

[Crimson Dynamo]

And me. A bit depressing though dont you think. The whole concept?

It was but it was a dig at the end of the sexist racist 1970s and the middle class working ideal

[Niamh.]

Now you're losing me cuz I dont agree with that at all. :joker: 'No hugs no learning' was for a reason.

There are a few later episodes of Friends that are definite Seinfeld rip offs. In particular, as I recall, around the time we find out Ross is the father of Rachels baby there are few episode that made me think they'd employed a Seinfeld scriptwriter. The episode with the Videotape is clearly in the Seinfeld style.

Well I wasn't watching Seinfeld so would never have noticed that :laugh:

It's all subjective though, I loved Friends, I loved the characters and I suppose it's a bit nostalgic for me too, I was 15 when it started and it was a thing to watch it with one of my best friends every week so the ritual of watching it like that probably made me enjoy it all the more too

[GiRTh]

It was but it was a dig at the end of the sexist racist 1970s and the middle class working idealAgree. Taking aim at the middle class rat race.

[GiRTh]

Well I wasn't watching Seinfeld so would never have noticed that :laugh:

It's all subjective though, I loved Friends, I loved the characters and I suppose it's a bit nostalgic for me too, I was 15 when it started and it was a thing to watch it with one of my best friends every week so the ritual of watching it like that probably made me enjoy it all the more tooThat episode in particular, where all the random plot line come together at the end, is definitely in the Seinfeld style.

[Niamh.]

That episode in particular, where all the random plot line come together at the end, is definitely in the Seinfeld style.

Yes well, Seinfeld had no Chandler :idc:

[Crimson Dynamo]

And lets not forget Taxi and Cheers

[GiRTh]

Yes well, Seinfeld had no Chandler :idc:So do you like Chandler yet find the Seinfeld characters annoying? :think:

[Niamh.]

So do you like Chandler yet find the Seinfeld characters annoying? :think:

:laugh2:

I love Chandler

[Crimson Dynamo]

Yes well, Seinfeld had no Chandler :idc:

:nono: Its not all about SEX

[Crimson Dynamo]

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/e5/ba/0e/e5ba0ee9e47b1d5eb50052a59b6fb899.jpg
https://s3.scoopwhoop.com/anj/image/c72c36ec-a32e-46c8-a7c5-bd28bcaa5464.jpg

.................................................. :flutter:

[Niamh.]

:nono: Its not all about SEX

Ew I don't like him that way, clearly Joey was the most attractive of them (except for the episode Brad Pitt was in obvs)

[GiRTh]

And lets not forget Taxi and Cheers
Both awesome. I used to have the Paramount comedy channel in the late 90's early 2000's and at weekends it was a sitcom blitz. Used to be too many annoying stand up and sketch shows during the week but the weekends was for sitcom both British and American. All these show were on wall to wall. Bliss. Those were the days :flutter:

[bots]

I never fancied friends when it was first shown, i subsequently watched it and it does have a certain something, but I don't think its anywhere close to the best.

There were shows like Frasier and the Odd Couple that were far funnier, and during the 60's, 70's and 80's the BBC put out countless classics. I could add another 10+ to Alf's list that were pure magic.

[Niamh.]

Oh and my 18 year old daughter has just started watching Friends from scratch and she loves it too

[Ashley.]

One Foot in the Grave is more my cup of tea, but Friends was great too

[Crimson Dynamo]

The weekends ep of Harry Hills Alien Fun Capsule with Canon and Ball was pretty good too

[Alf]

It clearly is the greatest. It's not the funniest or the most consistent or even necessarily my own personal favourite; but that's not the question. There simply isn't another sitcom that has been the same international and intergenerational phenomenon or even close.
Sgt Bilko
Cheers
The Monkees
Happy Days
Simpsons
Cosby Show
The Beverley Hillbillies
Rosanne
M*A*S*H
The Munsters
The Adams Family
Fresh Prince
Golden Girls
Taxi
Mork and Mindy
Diff'rent Strokes
Bewitched

All just as internationally phenomenal as Friends, in some cases bigger.

[GiRTh]

Sgt Bilko
Cheers
The Monkees
Happy Days
Simpsons
Cosby Show
The Beverley Hillbillies
Rosanne
M*A*S*H
The Munsters
The Adams Family
Fresh Prince
Golden Girls
Taxi
Mork and Mindy
Diff'rent Strokes
Bewitched

All just as internationally phenomenal as Friends, in some cases bigger.Totally forgot about Bilko. If I was naming my top sitcoms of all time, Bilko makes my top five possibly top three. Brilliant programme. Yeah there are shots where you can see the boom mic hanging from the ceiling but it was the first truly great sitcom on either side of the Atlantic.

[Alf]

Totally forgot about Bilko. If I was naming my top sitcoms of all time, Bilko makes my top five possibly top three. Brilliant programme. Yeah there are shots where you can see the boom mic hanging from the ceiling but it was the first truly great sitcom on either side of the Atlantic.That's why I put it at the top of the list.

[MTVN]

It clearly is the greatest. It's not the funniest or the most consistent or even necessarily my own personal favourite; but that's not the question. There simply isn't another sitcom that has been the same international and intergenerational phenomenon or even close.

Agree with this. I don't think any other sitcom matches it for it's popularity and it's impact

[Alf]

Agree with this. I don't think any other sitcom matches it for it's popularity and it's impactIn your life time or ever?

When was the last time Friends was a regular on one of the four main UK channels BBC1, BBC2, ITV or Channel 4?

[MTVN]

In your life time or ever?

When was the last time Friends was a regular on one of the four main UK channels BBC1, BBC2, ITV or Channel 4?

Certainly my lifetime and thats even though no one my age will have started watching it till after it finished. Literally everyone knows about it and could tell you the basic premise despite the fact it hasn't been on one of the four main channels in a while (although can't have been that long ago it was on C4)

[Mystic Mock]

Tbf I've only seen a few episodes of Friends, but it's not as quirky or as fun as shows like Arrested Development, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Community, or Parks & Recreation imo based on what I've seen of the show.

[Marsh.]

24 years old and still a pop culture phenomenon. Surely is the greatest, or at least one of them.

[Crimson Dynamo]

Tbf I've only seen a few episodes of Friends, but it's not as quirky or as fun as shows like Arrested Development, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Community, or Parks & Recreation imo based on what I've seen of the show.

No Mock that is not correct

none of the above shows are anywhere close to Friends

not even close

[Mokka]

In your life time or ever?

When was the last time Friends was a regular on one of the four main UK channels BBC1, BBC2, ITV or Channel 4?

But Alf, tv viewing has moved on from syndication to Netflix and Crave and any form of streaming. It's being streamed daily in your country by choice... not just because a local station is playing it in a dead time slot

[Marsh.]

But Alf, tv viewing has moved on from syndication to Netflix and Crave and any form of streaming. It's being streamed daily in your country by choice... not just because a local station is playing it in a dead time slot

Only Fools and Horses teas

[Mystic Mock]

The ones in bold are brilliant, the rest are entirely limited to the (now ageing) generation that they were aimed at and have not really stood the test of time, other than nostalgically for the people who remember them in their prime, so I don't think are contenders for "true" objective greatness (although everyone is of course entitled to their personal greats).

Tbf I'm 21 and I found Allo Allo funny.:laugh:

[Mystic Mock]

No Mock that is not correct

none of the above shows are anywhere close to Friends

not even close

They may not be as popular, but their style of humour is more to my style as I'm not into the OTT Rom-Com elements of shows like Friends.

[Alf]

The ones in bold are brilliant, the rest are entirely limited to the (now ageing) generation that they were aimed at and have not really stood the test of time, other than nostalgically for the people who remember them in their prime, so I don't think are contenders for "true" objective greatness (although everyone is of course entitled to their personal greats).Dad's Army is still Saturday night prime time television on BBC2 to this day. It was even prime time on Christmas day just gone. They finished making them 41 years ago.

[Tony Montana]

In your life time or ever?

When was the last time Friends was a regular on one of the four main UK channels BBC1, BBC2, ITV or Channel 4?

Certainly my lifetime and thats even though no one my age will have started watching it till after it finished. Literally everyone knows about it and could tell you the basic premise despite the fact it hasn't been on one of the four main channels in a while (although can't have been that long ago it was on C4)

It Ended on Channel 4 in 2011

[James]

One of the best I think, but it went on too long. It declined when Chandler and Monica moved in together.

I only got into it later (with repeats) - I didn't like the look of it when it started.

I haven't watched American sitcoms much - I think the only other ones I watched were Happy Days and Larry Sanders.



A lot of those are classics. I've watched about half of them. Apart from Dads' Army and Fawlty Towers I haven't watched 70s and earlier sitcoms.

Also seen Porridge.

The ones in bold are brilliant, the rest are entirely limited to the (now ageing) generation that they were aimed at and have not really stood the test of time, other than nostalgically for the people who remember them in their prime, so I don't think are contenders for "true" objective greatness (although everyone is of course entitled to their personal greats).

I came across an episode of Allo Allo recently and thought it actually stood up.

[LaLaLand]

Tbf I've only seen a few episodes of Friends, but it's not as quirky or as fun as shows like Arrested Development, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Community, or Parks & Recreation imo based on what I've seen of the show.

Now THERE'S one of the best of all time!

[Tony Montana]

It clearly is the greatest. It's not the funniest or the most consistent or even necessarily my own personal favourite; but that's not the question. There simply isn't another sitcom that has been the same international and intergenerational phenomenon or even close.

Agree with this. I don't think any other sitcom matches it for it's popularity and it's impact

Yeah I also Agree with this. Whether or Not you think it's the GOAT Sitcom, (I Easily Think it is) it still is at least top 5 and You can't deny the Pop Culture Phenomenon and Legacy it Achieved. Its impact on Television was deeper and still is. No Show Comes close IMO. Fantastic Post, Toy Soldier

[Marsh.]

Dad's Army is still Saturday night prime time television on BBC2 to this day. It was even prime time on Christmas day just gone.

No wonder viewing figures are on the floor.

50 year old repeats on a loop.

[Marsh.]

That episode in particular, where all the random plot line come together at the end, is definitely in the Seinfeld style.

1 plotline and 1 running joke.

That's pretty standard sitcom stuff.

The rather random background running joke to pay off with a big joke at the end by colliding with the episode's main plot.

That aint Seinfeld exclusive.

[Marsh.]

Sgt Bilko
Cheers
The Monkees
Happy Days
Simpsons
Cosby Show
The Beverley Hillbillies
Rosanne
M*A*S*H
The Munsters
The Adams Family
Fresh Prince
Golden Girls
Taxi
Mork and Mindy
Diff'rent Strokes
Bewitched

All just as internationally phenomenal as Friends, in some cases bigger.

Except the shine wore off some of those, not many stand alongside Friends as still being so popular.

Some of them ruined their own legacy by keeping going decades passed their prime, aka The Simpsons.

Friends and a few of the others know that you very rarely strike that magic twice so haven't jumped on the reunion train and, rightly, left them as they were.

As for the Cosby Show, well....

[Alf]

No wonder viewing figures are on the floor.

50 year old repeats on a loop.They wouldn't need to be if we still made good sitcoms these days. Sadly, we've turned into a fragile nation that finds good comedy offensive and there are too many people unable to be mocked.

So those of us that seek to just laugh at life, have to go back through the archives to find our pleasure, and some people are happy to just take Simon Cowell or whatever else they dish up.

[Marsh.]

They wouldn't need to be if we still made good sitcoms these days. Sadly, we've turned into a fragile nation that finds good comedy offensive and there are too many people unable to be mocked.

So those of us that seek to just laugh at life, have to go back through the archives to find our pleasure, and some people are happy to just take Simon Cowell or whatever else they dish up.

Plenty quality sitcoms/shows get made. You just have to look for them. The TV industry isn't confined to three channels anymore. If you're looking for classic after classic on the same two channels these days you will be let down.

Anyway, nope, quality of sitcoms isn't really the problem since the schedules being filled with repeats has been a problem for a very, very long time.

[Mystic Mock]

Now THERE'S one of the best of all time!

Who's your favourite character? I love them all but I think that my favourite is Gob.

[Mystic Mock]

They wouldn't need to be if we still made good sitcoms these days. Sadly, we've turned into a fragile nation that finds good comedy offensive and there are too many people unable to be mocked.

So those of us that seek to just laugh at life, have to go back through the archives to find our pleasure, and some people are happy to just take Simon Cowell or whatever else they dish up.

The IT Crowd was a very good Sitcom I thought out of our recent efforts.

Peter File is still one of the best jokes in a Comedy imo.

[LaLaLand]

Who's your favourite character? I love them all but I think that my favourite is Gob.

Oh it's got to be Lucille! Just incredible.

[Mystic Mock]

Oh it's got to be Lucille! Just incredible.

I love Lucille too, especially her dynamic with Buster.:joker:

[Alf]

The IT Crowd was a very good Sitcom I thought out of our recent efforts.

Peter File is still one of the best jokes in a Comedy imo.I tried it once, I watched two episodes and wasn't enjoying it, so stopped. I might give it another go sometime. My best mate loves it, he's always banging on about it.

The Detectorists is probably the best recent sitcom I've seen.

[Alf]

They don't make em' like Mrs Slocombe anymore


JL9KqigbdJw

[Tony Montana]

Yes well, Seinfeld had no Chandler :idc:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PANRt1cHKl4

[Alf]

A bit of Alf


t0-leRNxhmg

[rusticgal]

The office (UK) is clearly the greatest comedy of all time.


The BEST uk sitcom ever....but like everything else it was marmite..people either loved it or hated it. In fact...I didn't much like it at first..so awkward to watch...then it just grew on me. It's brilliantly done.
Friends is my favourite though.

[andybigbro]

Yes :clap1:

[Tony Montana]

Yes :clap1:

Glad you Agree, Andy

[LaLaLand]

I love Lucille too, especially her dynamic with Buster.:joker:

Haha yes!

"Where my bed!?"

"I put it in storage... I guess you'll have to decided WHICH Lucille you want to spend your nights with..." :laugh::laugh:

Season 5 starts in a week or two, I made a thread in the TV section!

[Alf]

Friends didn't have Victor, so how can it be the best?


NoHrvMcs320

[Alf]

Joey vs Frank? It's not even a contest.


lFLpwRMS00g

[Daniel.]

1. Absolutely Fabulous
2. Keeping Up Appearances
3. Friends
4. Birds Of A Feather
5. Bad Education

[mizzy25]

adore friends, have the box set so can watch over and over :cheer2:

[Tony Montana]

adore friends, have the box set so can watch over and over :cheer2:

Another Friends fan:worship:

[user104658]

Dad's Army is still Saturday night prime time television on BBC2 to this day. It was even prime time on Christmas day just gone. They finished making them 41 years ago.

You're ignoring the fact that only over 50's watch BBC2.

[Alf]

You're ignoring the fact that only over 50's watch BBC2.You're just ignoring.

[Fetch The Bolt Cutters]

A bit of Alf


t0-leRNxhmg

Ugh i hate this type of comedy like hypermasculine grr bloke stuff garbage :bawling:

[Fetch The Bolt Cutters]

1. Absolutely Fabulous
2. Keeping Up Appearances
3. Friends
4. Birds Of A Feather
5. Bad Education

Dinnerladies slept on?

[Alf]

Ugh i hate this type of comedy like hypermasculine grr bloke stuff garbage :bawling:Well if you do, then my guess would be that comedy isn't your favourite genre on television. The reason it's not your favourite genre is because you dislike the good stuff.

[Fetch The Bolt Cutters]

Incorrect sis :nono: i love comedy

Dinnerladies, the royle family, gimme gimme gimme, will and grace etc slay me

[Marsh.]

Alf just has no taste, huh?

[Fetch The Bolt Cutters]

Alf just has no taste, huh?

https://media1.tenor.com/images/b88ee88e08b82141869dac81bc814c2c/tenor.gif?itemid=7589161

[Alf]

Alf just has no taste, huh?I know that you share my taste for One Foot in the Grave!

[Marsh.]

I know that you share my taste for One Foot in the Grave!

You know how to get round me. Cheeky.

[Maru]

A bit of Alf


t0-leRNxhmg

Funny what he says about the BBC... a lot of people here used to treat BBC like it was so much more professional and much higher brow than American television... our culture sometimes even being regarded as the uglier cousin.

This show is like a mash-up of Cosby show + All In The Family... the latter is based off of it apparently (I didn't even know that...)

7dKpHtc9F9M

It ran for 9 seasons. It was on regular reruns on local when growing up... still is on cable.

[Alf]

^Yeah, it was based on Till Death us do Part. There's been many American sitcoms based on British ones.

I assume you've heard of Sanford and Son? That was based on my favourite, Steptoe and Son.

[Maru]

i like it & watched it in full like 3 times but i wouldn't consider it one of the greatest

Same, I wasn't into it as much as other shows, but I watch it when it was on TV. There are other citcoms I like much more... like Home Improvement, Boy Meets World, Saved By The Bell :love: ...

[Maru]

^Yeah, it was based on Till Death us do Part. There's been many American sitcoms based on British ones.

I assume you've heard of Sanford and Son? That was based on my favourite, Steptoe and Son.

Yes I remember that show :love: We watched a lot of the older citcoms and black & white movies.. my mom and I used to watch a lot of AMC classics. I used to watch by myself a lot of I Love Lucy on Nickelodeon on Saturday Nights...I think it was after "Snick", or whatever the Nickelodeon children's comedy show was called... it had Kenan & Kell on it and Amanda Bynes when she used to yell at the screen (which was funny)... Kenan is on SNL now and he's still hilarious.

I remember when they had a call-in vote. The kids could call in and vote for the president (Unofficially). I voted for Ross Perot because I wanted to support the underdog... my family laughed at me. :bawling:

[Jamie89]

For me, definitely.

[Fetch The Bolt Cutters]

For me, definitely.

TRAITOR

[Tony Montana]

:cheer2:For me, definitely.

[Jamie89]

TRAITOR

(I'll not mention that I have like 4 eps of Will & Grace I need to catch up on) http://cdn.thisisbigbrother.com/customavatars/avatar58838_370.gif

[Tony Montana]

Anymore Opinions?

[AarynGriesfan]

I prefer Seinfeld.

[JerseyWins]

This isn't Full House, Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Boy Meets World, That 70's Show or Two and a Half Men.

To be fair I never got into a bunch of highly praised sitcoms... like The Office, Friends, Seinfeld, The Big Bang Theory, How I Met Your Mother, etc.

[JerseyWins]

Big Bang Theory is awful though. The rest of the sitcoms I listed that I didn't watch seem at least ok from little bits / random episodes I've seen.