British Comedy Guide

TV Comedy Preview: 6th to 12th January 2014

We're going to be trialling a few new ideas on BCG this month as we look to expand our coverage of comedy. One idea is this weekly summary of five TV highlights for the week ahead. Do let us know what you think of this.

So, yeah, here's what to look out for between the 6th to 12th January 2014...


Live At The Apollo. Image shows from L to R: Rich Hall, Jack Whitehall, Katherine Ryan. Copyright: Open Mike Productions

Live At The Apollo

Jack Whitehall was all over TV in 2013, and this year looks set to be no different. He hosts the latest episode of the stand-up show as it comes back after a break for the festive period. The young comedian is joined by veteran Rich Hall and rising star Katherine Ryan.

Wednesday, 9:30pm, BBC One. Guide & Clip


This Is Jinsy. Image shows from L to R: Berpetta (Ben Miller), Maven (Justin Chubb), Sporall (Chris Bran). Copyright: The Welded Tandem Picture Company

This Is Jinsy

This surreal sitcom returns for a second series. It's a highly authored show, resulting in a style you'll either love or hate. We're very much fans, and excitedly looking forward to the star-packed new episodes. Stephen Fry and Ben Miller star in the opening double-bill.

Wednesday, 10pm, Sky Atlantic. Guide & Clips


Birds Of A Feather. Image shows from L to R: Sharon Theodopolopodous (Pauline Quirke), Dorien Green (Lesley Joseph), Tracey Stubbs (Linda Robson). Copyright: Alomo Productions / Retort

Birds Of A Feather

This sitcom re-launch achieved big ratings last week (7.8m)... however some of those viewers are likely to have just been the casually curious. Now the set up is established (all three back in the same house) and the novelty factor has past, it's time to find out if ITV were indeed wise to bring it back:

Thursday, 8:30pm, ITV. Guide


Charlie Brooker's Weekly Wipe. Charlie Brooker. Copyright: House Of Tomorrow / Zeppotron

Charlie Brooker's Weekly Wipe

Charlie Brooker returns for a second series of the latest variant of his Wipe review shows. If you can recall back to January 2013, you'll remember this version is a mix of topical commentary and reviews of the latest cultural stuff (e.g. films).

Thursday, 10pm, BBC Two. Guide


Live At The Electric. Russell Kane. Copyright: Avalon Television

Live At The Electric

Russell Kane returns for a third series of the programme which showcases new comedians currently making a splash on the live circuit. He's once again joined by the likes of Totally Tom and WitTank, whilst new signings include Luke McQueen and Chastity Butterworth. The late-night time slot isn't going to help though.

Friday, 11:45pm, BBC Three. Guide & Clip


Other new TV this week includes Benidorm, QI and another 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown.

For a complete summary of all the British comedy on TV this week, including all the main repeats too, see our schedule


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Published: Sunday 5th January 2014

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