10 Shows Like Blackadder (1983)

Description: Like 'Blackadder', 'Yes Minister' is a British sitcom that excels in sharp, witty dialogue and satirical humor. Both shows lampoon the incompetence and self-serving nature of those in power, with 'Yes Minister' focusing on the political sphere. The clever wordplay and the dynamic between the cunning civil servant and the bumbling minister mirror the relationship dynamics in 'Blackadder'.

Fact: The show was so accurate in its depiction of British politics that it was reportedly admired by real politicians, including Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. The series was followed by a sequel, 'Yes, Prime Minister', which continued the story. The show's co-writer, Antony Jay, was knighted for his services to broadcasting.

Description: 'The Young Ones' shares with 'Blackadder' a distinctly British sense of humor, blending slapstick with surreal and anarchic comedy. Both shows feature eccentric characters and absurd situations, though 'The Young Ones' leans more into punk and counterculture aesthetics. The show's irreverent take on societal norms and its fast-paced, chaotic energy are reminiscent of 'Blackadder's' more outrageous moments.

Fact: The show was one of the first British sitcoms to feature a live studio audience and a laugh track. It was part of the 'alternative comedy' movement, which sought to break away from traditional comedy formats. The series often included musical performances by contemporary bands, such as Madness and Dexys Midnight Runners.

Description: 'Red Dwarf' combines science fiction with British comedy, much like how 'Blackadder' blends historical settings with humor. Both shows feature a dysfunctional group of characters navigating their way through absurd and often dire circumstances. The witty banter and the camaraderie (or lack thereof) among the crew of the Red Dwarf mirror the interactions among 'Blackadder's' characters.

Fact: The show was originally conceived as a sitcom set in a Liverpool housing estate before being reworked into a sci-fi setting. It holds the record for the longest-running sci-fi comedy series. The character of Rimmer was named after the show's co-creator, Rob Grant's, schoolteacher.

Description: 'Father Ted' shares with 'Blackadder' a love for absurdity and satire, particularly in its portrayal of institutional incompetence. Both shows feature characters who are, in their own ways, scheming, lazy, or just plain clueless. The isolated setting of Craggy Island and the eccentric characters trapped there create a similar dynamic to the various historical settings in 'Blackadder'.

Fact: The show was created by Graham Linehan and Arthur Mathews, who also worked on 'The IT Crowd'. It was originally conceived as a radio series before being adapted for television. The character of Father Jack is based on a real-life priest the writers knew.

Description: Created by Ben Elton, who also worked on 'Blackadder', 'The Thin Blue Line' shares the same sharp, satirical edge. The show pokes fun at the bureaucracy and inefficiency within the police force, much like 'Blackadder' does with historical institutions. The ensemble cast and the quick-fire jokes are hallmarks of both series.

Fact: The title is a play on words, referencing both the police force and the famous documentary about a wrongful conviction. Rowan Atkinson stars as the lead, bringing his signature comedic timing from 'Blackadder'. The show was criticized by some for its portrayal of the police, but it was praised for its humor and writing.

Description: 'Spaced' and 'Blackadder' both use their settings—a shared flat and various historical periods—as backdrops for their characters' antics. Both shows are known for their rapid-fire jokes, pop culture references, and surreal humor. The ensemble casts and the clever writing are key similarities.

Fact: The show was created by Simon Pegg and Jessica Hynes, who also star as the lead characters. It was directed by Edgar Wright, who went on to direct the 'Cornetto Trilogy' with Pegg. The series is known for its innovative use of visual gags and homages to film and TV.

Description: 'Black Books' shares with 'Blackadder' a love for misanthropic humor and eccentric characters. Both shows feature protagonists who are clever but deeply flawed, and the humor often stems from their interactions with the more normal (or equally bizarre) people around them. The witty dialogue and the surreal situations are key similarities.

Fact: The show was created by Dylan Moran, who also stars as the lead character, Bernard Black. The series was partly inspired by Moran's own experiences working in a bookshop. The character of Manny was originally written as a one-off but became a series regular due to his popularity.

Description: 'Peep Show' and 'Blackadder' both excel in showcasing the darker, more cynical side of human nature through comedy. While 'Peep Show' uses a first-person perspective to delve into the minds of its characters, 'Blackadder' relies on sharp dialogue and situational humor. Both shows feature protagonists who are self-serving and often morally questionable.

Fact: The show is notable for its use of first-person perspective, a rarity in sitcoms. It was one of the longest-running British sitcoms, spanning nine series. The characters of Mark and Jez were originally conceived as flatmates in a radio play.

Description: 'The Mighty Boosh' shares with 'Blackadder' a love for absurdity and surreal humor. Both shows feature eccentric characters and bizarre situations, though 'The Mighty Boosh' leans more into fantasy and musical elements. The witty dialogue and the unique visual style are key similarities.

Fact: The show started as a radio series before being adapted for television. It was created by and stars Noel Fielding and Julian Barratt, who also wrote the music for the series. The character of Vince Noir was inspired by David Bowie and other glam rock icons.

Description: Like 'Blackadder', 'The IT Crowd' thrives on the misfortunes and misadventures of its socially awkward characters. Both shows use their settings—a medieval court and a modern IT department—to highlight the absurdity of human behavior. The quick wit and the escalating absurdity of the situations are key similarities.

Fact: The show was created by Graham Linehan, who also co-created 'Father Ted'. The iconic 'Have you tried turning it off and on again?' line became a cultural catchphrase. The series was initially rejected by several networks before being picked up by Channel