If you're looking to dive into the rich history of British comedy, the cast of Saturday Night Live UK has you covered. In a recent chat with Collider ahead of the show's second season, the ensemble—Ayoade Bamgboye, George Fouracres, Celeste Dring, Jack Shep, Paddy Young, Emma Sidi, and Al Nash—shared their top recommendations for U.S. viewers eager to explore the best of UK humor.
Their picks span from sharp political satire to cringe-inducing sitcoms, offering a diverse taste of what makes British comedy so beloved. Whether you're a fan of classics or looking for hidden gems, these shows are sure to entertain.
The Thick of It (2005–2012)
If you loved the chaotic political world of Veep, then Ayoade Bamgboye's recommendation of The Thick of It is a must-watch. Created by Armando Iannucci, with Jesse Armstrong among its writers, this four-season satire is the British predecessor to Veep, following the inner workings of a dysfunctional government. The show, which aired on BBC Four before moving to BBC Two, is known for its razor-sharp writing and memorable rants, especially from Peter Capaldi's character, Malcolm Tucker, the foul-mouthed Director of Communications. Iannucci's research revealed a worrying trend of inexperienced advisers in government, which he brilliantly satirized. Even British politicians admitted the show's scenarios hit close to home.
Big Train (1998–2002)
Paddy Young recommends Big Train, a sketch show that takes ordinary situations and twists them into something surreal and often darkly comic. Created by Arthur Mathews and Graham Linehan of Father Ted fame, the show features a stellar cast including Simon Pegg, Mark Heap, Julia Davis, and Catherine Tate. Its sketches are unpredictable, from a dinner party gone horribly wrong to a tourist who refuses to speak English. The show also had a knack for placing '70s and '80s pop stars in bizarre scenarios, like Kevin Rowland as Frankenstein's monster. Big Train is a breeding ground for talent and a must-see for fans of sketch comedy.
Ann Droid (2026–Present)
Emma Sidi's pick, Ann Droid, is a fresh sitcom from Diane Morgan that premiered in July 2026. Set in 2029, it follows Sue, a widow played by Sue Johnston, who receives a discontinued eldercare robot named Linda, played by Morgan, from her son Michael. What sounds like a silly sci-fi premise turns into a heartfelt story about loneliness and human connection. The show has been praised for its touching portrayal of AI and its impact on our lives, making it a standout new comedy.
On the Buses (1969–1973)
George Fouracres offers a more classic pick with On the Buses, a sitcom that aired on ITV from 1969 to 1973. It follows bus crew Stan and Jack as they navigate work and life, often clashing with their strict inspector, Blakey. While the show was a massive hit in its day, spawning films and a stage version, it has aged poorly with some outdated attitudes. Still, it's a fascinating look at British comedy history, and its U.S. adaptation, Lotsa Luck, is a fun footnote.
These recommendations, along with others from the cast, offer a great starting point for exploring British comedy. For more laughs, check out our list of comedies you'll never tire of or see what's new in the world of NBC's hit comedy. And if you're in the mood for something different, Amy Poehler's latest might be up your alley.
