Best comedies on BBC iPlayer in October 2024
Autumn has arrived and, with it, lashings of rain and thunderous clouds. So what better way to combat the darkening days, than being curled up inside, watching a brilliant comedy? BBC iPlayer has some of the UK's best loved classics, as well as new and cutting-edge shows. There is certainly something for everyone on the service. So to make the selection a bit easier, here's our selection of the best comedies to watch on BBC iPlayer in October 2024.
The Office
Comedy
Summary:Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant’s mockumentary masterpiece that changed the game for all the comedies that followed. Gervais portrays the now infamous David Brent, the cringey boss of Slough paper company Wernham Hogg. He presides over his long-suffering staff as they undergo daily struggles such as office politics, falling in love, and getting the stapler out of jelly. All three series are available to watch on BBC iPlayer, although technically series 3 is a two-part Christmas special.
Why you should watch: There’s a reason this low-budget British series finished more than 20 years ago, yet still gets quoted every day. It continues to spawn reboots and spin-offs around the world (the latest being in New Zealand). It’s also the series that first mastered the art of breaking the fourth wall by poking fun at the documentary - something that has been mimicked countless time since. Oh, and it launched the careers of nearly all of its stars, including Gervais, Martin Freeman, and Mackenzie Crook.
Available now
This Country
Comedy
Summary:Kurtan and Kerry Mucklowe are two cousins living in a rural town in the Cotswolds. There isn’t too much for them to do, apart from bickering and getting into trouble. The pair’s antics put tongue firmly in cheek to highlight the humour and absurdity of living in rural England. Like The Office, only three series were ever made. They are available to watch now, including a one off special made in 2018.
Why you should watch: Watch two future stars of British comedy (real-life siblings Chris and Daisy May Cooper) blossom in the perfect, love story to the British countryside. If The Office walked to make the mockumentary comedy a staple of British television, it was so This Country could run! A 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes does a good job of showing just how close to perfect this show is.
Available now
Ghosts
Comedy | Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Summary:A couple inherits an old, run-down mansion, only to discover that it is haunted by quirky spirits from the past. The show therefore leads to a never-ending spell of funny and heartwarming interactions between humans and ghosts, in an immensely popular show that spawned its own US spin-off. All series of the British version, including the fifth and final series, is available to watch on BBC iPlayer. Three seasons of Ghosts US are also free for streaming.
Why you should watch: The show features a big cast filled with regulars from the UK comedy scene, and many of the Horrible Histories lot. With a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes (beaten only just by its US counterpart with 97%) Ghosts is hauntingly good. It’s unique, charming, and lighthearted – the perfect comfort show.
Available now
W1A
Comedy
Summary:A show on the BBC, set within the BBC, about people working for the BBC, trying to run the BBC. Is that the most British thing of all time? Huge Bonneville returns as Ian Fletcher, formerly the Head of the Olympic Deliverance Commission, who has taken up the position of Head of Values at the BBC. Three series of W1A, and two of its predecessor Twenty-Twelve are available to watch.
Why you should watch: The show is a spin-off of the very popular Twenty-Twelve, set around the planning of the 2012 London Olympic Games. The show weaves through the absurdity of the bureaucracy and values of the BBC in a sharp, witty comedy. Full of references to other shows across the BBC, the show has comedy that appeals to everyone – not to mention a treasure trove of famous guest stars.
Available now
The Cleaner
Comedy
Summary:Starring the hilariously versatile Greg Davies, the show follows Paul, a crime scene cleaner, who stumbles into the lives of those left behind at the scene. Each episode features a different messy situation and a fresh cast of characters that bring their own unique spin on proceedings. Three series are currently in iPlayer.
Why you should watch: A show with a deliciously dark humour, with a legend of modern-day TV comedy in the lead role. Davies delivers deadpan hilarity while navigating bizarre encounters. A fun show that keeps viewers on their toes and desperate for more gory humour. The fab guests include Helena Bonham Carter, David Mitchell, Layton Williams, and James Nolan.
Available now
Ludwig
Comedy | Drama
Summary:David Mitchell plays a puzzle-nerd who is reluctantly forced into the world of police work after his identical brother – a detective - goes missing. The introvert is pushed out of his comfort zone as he works through the clues in an attempt to get to the bottom of his brother’s mysterious disappearance. This is a brand new series, which only landed on the Beeb in 2024.
Why you should watch: Ludwig is laden with whimsical stories with a sprinkle of absurdity. It is great fun to see old-fashioned Ludwig using his puzzle knowledge to work out crime – with new obstacles being thrown at him. And it goes to show that, in an age where the BBC competes against big-budget streaming giants, it can still produce engaging and unique comedy shows.
Available now
Gavin & Stacey
Comedy | Drama
Summary:Gavin, from Essex, falls in love with Stacey, from Wales. That’s quite a distance between the two and quite a different way of living. With their best friends and family beside them every step of the way, Gavin and Stacey merge their worlds and juggle the beauty and mundanity of modern life. There are three seasons available. The last ever episode will air on Christmas Day 2024.
Why you should watch: Gavin & Stacey is simply one of the most quotable and charming shows made for British television. Each scene leaves you with a new catchphrase and a smile from ear to ear, with comedic masterclasses from the cast, including the show’s creator James Corden (before he skyrocketed to international fame). The show returns for one final special on Christmas 2024, so there is no better time than right now to get up to speed.
Available now
Dreaming Whilst Black
Comedy | Drama
Summary:This semi-autobiographical comedy follows a young black filmmaker navigating the chaotic landscape of the entertainment industry in a bid to pursue his dreams. With a mix of humour and honesty, it tackles race, ambition, and the absurdities of the film world. There’s one series to watch so far, with a second series on its way.
Why you should watch: Dreaming Whilst Black is a fresh show that speaks to the modern age. The show is a hilarious yet poignant exploration of identity and ambition. It is perfect for anyone who's ever dreamed big while facing a mountain of obstacles. The Guardian said: “BAFTA-winning show Dreaming Whilst Black is ripping up the rules of comedy.”
Available now
Am I Being Unreasonable?
Comedy
Summary:This dark comedy revolves around a mother grappling with a crumbling marriage and the unexpected arrival of a new friend. The series delves into friendship, deception, and the complexities of modern parenting, all wrapped in a satirical bow. And, and there’s a pretty big twist. Series one is available to watch now, with series two coming soon.
Why you should watch: Daisy May Cooper, who plays Nic, cements her position as a staple of British television comedy. She stars alongside the hilarious and endearing Lenny Rush, who went on to win a BAFTA for Best Male Performance in a Comedy Programme. It’s no surprise at all that the twisted comedy thriller got itself a series 2. It’s funny, surreal, unique and weirdly relatable.
Available now
The Young Offenders
Crime | Comedy
Summary:This cheeky series follows two Irish teenagers, Conor and Jock, as they get into all sorts of mischief while dreaming of a better life. With plenty of shenanigans, they navigate friendship, family, and their less-than-stellar choices in a hilariously relatable way. There are four series to catch up on, and the 2016 feature length film.
Why you should watch: This is another BBC show that shines a light on a different region in the UK. It’s a brilliant comedy series with a unique voice. The show serves as a love story to Cork, even managing to rope in legendary football Roy Keane for one of the best cameos ever.
Available now
People Just Do Nothing
Comedy
Summary:A mockumentary that follows a group of hapless West London garage rappers trying to make it big with their radio station, Kurupt FM. It’s a hilarious take on the music industry, complete with plenty of ego, delusion, and utter nonsense. The show went on to have five series, and spawned a big screen adaptation, People Just Do Nothing: Big In Japan (which isn’t currently available on BBC iPlayer, although the series are).
Why you should watch: When The Office came out, everyone said they’d had a boss like David Brent. Well, I think everyone has had a friend like Grindah. A man who thinks he is a bad boy, a genre-defying musician, only to be far from it. The Guardian said: “By making you care about the characters (even the monstrosity that is MC Grindah, a David Brent with malicious intent), viewers have reasons for tuning in." We all know someone who thinks they’re Stormzy, but really, they’re Grindah.
Available now
Juice
Comedy
Summary:Mawaan Rizwan plays Jamma, a young gay man who strives to be the centre of attention, but his family consistently steal his thunder. This show dives into the lives of young people navigating love, friendship and ambition in a vibrant and challenging environment. Series 2 is coming soon.
Why you should watch: Juice displays stories that reflect the energy and struggles of modern youth. It’s relatable, dynamic and full of heart, perfect for those who want to see real stories told with style and humour. The show is celebrated for its use of practical effects throughout, which are used to create very distinct and trippy visuals. Russell Tovey also stars.
Available now
Inside No. 9
Comedy | Mystery | Crime | Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Drama
Summary:This anthology series – nine in total - features a different story in each episode. The standalone episodes blend dark comedy and suspense in a unique, and often unsettling, way. Created by League of Gentleman stars Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith, who ended the series for good in 2024.
Why you should watch: The creativity of the show is off the charts, allowing viewers to undergo a bizarre adventure, with different narratives in just 30 minutes. Each episode features a brand new cast alongside series regulars Pemberton and Shearsmith, meaning there is an episode for everyone. Some are better than others, but all are worth watching. From quirky characters to twisted plots, each episode keeps viewers guessing until the very end. And the last ever episode is pure genius.
Available now
Detectorists
Comedy
Summary:This charming series follows two metal detector enthusiasts, Andy and Lance, as they search for treasure while navigating their mundane lives. Set in the English countryside, it’s a gentle comedy that explores friendship, obsession, and the thrill of the hunt. There are three series available of the Mackenzie Crook and Toby Jones comedy.
Why you should watch: The show relies on its smart, subtle humour and character-driven stories. Overall it is a cosy and heartwarming series that has gone on to win a hugely devoted fanbase. The show finds beauty in the ordinary and is perfect for a lazy afternoon with a cup of tea. Most of the shows on this list can brag about their Rotten Tomatoes score, and with a 100% rating, Detectorists is the same. Dare we say it’s comedy ‘gold’?
Available now
The Outlaws
Comedy | Crime | Drama
Summary:This comedy-drama revolves around a group of people from different backgrounds forced to work together on community service after getting caught up in petty crime. As they navigate their differences, they find unexpected friendships and romances, as they join together to help with each of their troubles. There are three series to catch up on so far.
Why you should watch: This is a great show with a brilliant ensemble cast. Seeing Christopher Walken in a TV series set in Bristol is quite simply a gift we never knew we needed. Stephen Merchant comes back to his roots, making television in his hometown, and has crafted a charming show that wonderfully displays his blend of tender and awkward humour. Also worth watching to see Baby Reindeer’s Jessica Gunning being, well, quite brilliant again.
Available now
Fleabag
Comedy | Drama
Summary:Created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Fleabag chronicles the chaotic life of a young woman in London, navigating love, loss, and her dysfunctional family. The show features iconic fourth-wall breaks, and storylines that are both deeply relatable and laugh-out-loud funny. Sadly, only two series were ever made.
Why you should watch: With a bucketful of Emmys, BAFTAs and Golden Globes to its name, this show is not just a masterpiece in television making, it is a masterpiece in art. Waller-Bridge lovingly adapted her one-person play into a perfect show that became a cultural touchstone - it will resonate with viewers for a long time. The series will have you in stitches with its dark humour. But it might just bring you to tears, too, with its heartbreaking and beautiful moments.
Available now
Colin from Accounts
Comedy
Summary:This quirky Australian romantic comedy follows the unexpected relationship between two strangers brought together by a stray dog named Colin. As the couple navigate their individual struggles, their connection deepens in wonderfully unpredictable ways. Two series are available.
Why you should watch: The show features a lovely blend of humour and heartfelt moments. It’s charming, funny, and features that irresistible meet-cute vibe. Created, written by and starring a real husband and wife team (Patrick Brammall and Harriet Dyer), the show is perfect for anyone looking for a light-hearted watch. While there are countless British comedies to indulge in on iPlayer, this Australian comedy offers viewers a bit of something different.
Available now
Would I Lie to You?
Comedy
Summary:A panel game show that pits two teams against each other in a battle of wits and deception. Each contestant shares unbelievable stories and the opposing team must figure out whether they’re true or fabricated. Lee Mack and David Mitchell are team leaders, with Rob Brydon hosting. The show features fantastic guests in each episode. Although the show has been on our screens ever since 2007 (for 17 seasons), only the last five are available on BBC iPlayer.
Why you should watch: Whereas some shows are just a panel, Would I Lie to You is THE panel. Often these shows lose their re-watchability due to being about current affairs. But this long-running show manages to avoid that curse and be a show that ages like a fine wine. Some of Bob Mortimer’s appearances are infamous, while Strictly star Chris McCausland also appears.
Available now
Man Like Mobeen
Comedy | Drama
Summary:This comedy-drama centres on Mobeen, a British-Pakistani man living in Birmingham and desperately trying to keep his past behind him. It tackles issues of identity, culture, and friendship with humour and sincerity. It features an incredibly funny cast over four series.
Why you should watch: Once again, a story told by people who don’t normally have their story told. The show mixes comedy with meaningful commentary. It’s relatable, funny, and offers a fresh perspective on the challenges faced by its characters. It is refreshing to see diverse stories being told with such authenticity. Comedian Guz Khan portrays the central character of Mobeen.
Available now
Upstart Crow
Comedy | Drama
Summary:This sitcom follows the life of a young William Shakespeare, played by David Mitchell, as he navigates the ups and downs of being a struggling playwright in 16th-century London. Balancing his work, relationships, and the eccentricities of his contemporaries, the series offers a humorous take on the bard's early years with each episode focusing on one of his famous plays. Three series were made in total.
Why you should watch: The series features clever wordplay and historical satire. Mitchell's performance is a standout, bringing Shakespeare's frustrations to life with sharp comedic timing. Plus, the anachronistic humour and playful nods to Shakespeare’s later works will have you chuckling, even if you’re not a literary buff. It’s a clever, entertaining way to get your fix of the Bard. And the ensemble cast is packed with some of Britain’s finest comics – including Ben Miller, Liza Tarbuck, Mark Heap, Harry Enfield, and Gemma Whelan.
Available now
Two Doors Down
Comedy
Summary:Set in a quiet Scottish suburb, this sitcom revolves around the lives of a group of friends and neighbours as they navigate the ups and downs of everyday life. The show centres around the dynamics between the socially-awkward characters, especially the well-meaning but overbearing Christine, and her long-suffering husband, played by Alex Norton. All seven series are available.
Why you should watch: This character-driven comedy has plenty of heart. The interactions between characters are relatable, and the humour strikes a perfect balance between awkwardness and warmth. The Scottish setting adds an extra layer of charm. Viewers will quickly find themselves invested in the lives of these endearing characters. The cast includes Arabella Weir, Alex Norton, Doon Mackichan, and Sally Rooney.
Available now
Awkwafina is Nora From Queens
Comedy
Summary:This semi-autobiographical comedy stars American comedian Awkwafina as Nora, a young woman living in Queens, New York, with her quirky family and friends. Each episode showcases her adventures, from career struggles to family dynamics, all infused with Awkwafina's signature humour and charm. There are three series in total.
Why you should watch: Awkwafina delivers a unique performance, with a distinct look, unique voice and fresh comedic timing. Her delivery makes for an engaging and hilarious watch that is reflected in the show’s 81% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Plus, the vibrant depiction of Queens adds a cultural richness that makes every episode feel fresh and fun. The Beeb describes it as a “filthy, funny slacker comedy”, so you have been warned.
Available now
Not Going Out
Comedy
Summary:Not Going out is currently the second-longest-running British sitcom, after Last of the Summer Wine. It follows the life of slacker Lee (Lee Mack), his love interest Lucy (Sally Bretton), and their subsequent life together. There are 13 series so far on BBC iPlayer, with a 14th due to land in 2025.
Why you should watch: A classic British sitcom that feels like it’s been on our screen forever. Filled with quick wit and hilarious misunderstandings, the chemistry between the main characters is delightful, and the laugh-out-loud moments are plentiful. With its light-hearted approach, it’s perfect for a cosy night in when you just want to unwind and chuckle. The Times described it as: “An old-fashioned, but whip-smart, slick and life-affirming sitcom that always made me laugh in a way that Mrs Brown’s Boys never could. Mack is hugely likeable.”
Available now
Killing Eve
Crime | Drama
Summary:This thrilling spy drama follows the cat-and-mouse game between Eve, an intelligence investigator, and Villanelle, a stylish and deadly assassin. As their obsession with each other grows, the series delivers a mix of suspense, very dark humour, and unexpected twists. The two leads are mesmerizing as they get tantalizing close over four series – and a multiple body count.
Why you should watch: Killing Eve is as funny as it is brutal and unpredictable. The dynamic performances by Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer are nothing short of spectacular, making the tension palpable in every scene. With sharp writing and a wonderful array of accents and outfits from Comer, the show had audiences alternating between smiles and gasps throughout. The ending was divisive, but you’ll have to make up your own mind.
Available now
Him & Her
Comedy
Summary:This British sitcom introduces young couple Steve and Becky - a working-class couple in their mid-20s. It’s an intimate, warts and all, anti-romantic comedy about real-life love in its lazy, messy, everyday glory. The show’s realistic portrayal of the couple’s day-to-day antics, friends, and family creates a relatable and often hilarious look at modern relationships. There are four series available.
Why you should watch: When it comes to celebrating the beauty in the mundane, no one does it better than writer Stefan Golaszewski – who went on to create the show Mum with Lesley Manville, as well as Marriage. This unfiltered comedy captures the essence of young adulthood. The characters are refreshingly authentic and the awkward moments will have you laughing in recognition. It’s a delightful exploration of love, friendship and the messiness of life.
Available now
