Britain invented the modern situation comedy and, for several decades, produced the best examples of the form the world has ever seen. From Basil Fawlty's magnificent self-destruction to Del Boy and Rodney's enduring optimism, from Blackadder's withering intelligence to the excruciating social agony of The Office, British sitcoms have shaped not just television but culture.
Ranking them is, of course, an act of glorious futility. Every list will be wrong in ways that feel intensely personal to someone. But the exercise is also irresistible, and we approach it with the full knowledge that a percentage of our readers will be furious. We apologise in advance, and invite the furious to subscribe and write to us.
Here, then, is our ranking of the ten greatest British sitcoms ever made.
10. Dad's Army (BBC One, 1968–1977)
Few programmes have captured the spirit of a nation with as much affection and precision as Dad's Army. The story of a ragtag Home Guard platoon in the fictional town of Walmington-on-Sea during the Second World War, it operated simultaneously as broad comedy, warm character study, and surprisingly thoughtful examination of class, age and duty.
9. Absolutely Fabulous (BBC One, 1992–2012)
Jennifer Saunders' creation remains one of the boldest character comedies British television has ever produced. Edina and Patsy — chaotic, narcissistic, gloriously self-unaware — were both satirical targets and objects of genuine affection.