6 of the funniest sitcoms of the 21st century

British sitcoms have a rich history of being celebrated for their wit, charm, and distinctive sense of humour. The 21st century has introduced a plethora of hilarious shows that keep audiences laughing with their sharp writing and memorable characters. Some might look to using VPN for PC for secure connection in order to stream British comedy from abroad in a safe and secure way whilst protecting their data. Here are six of the funniest British sitcoms which are available to download and watch from this century that have had viewers in fits of laughter.

The Office (2001-2003)

One of the most influential sitcoms ever, The Office, created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, established the benchmark for mockumentary-style comedy. Featuring Gervais as the cringeworthy yet strangely lovable David Brent, the series explores the mundane yet absurd realities of office life at Wernham Hogg. With its dry humour, awkward pauses, and painfully relatable characters, it became a groundbreaking show that inspired many adaptations around the globe and most notably with the US version of The Office.

Peep Show (2003-2015)

Peep Show. Image shows from L to R: Jeremy Usbourne (Robert Webb), Mark Corrigan (David Mitchell). Copyright: Objective Productions

Peep Show, crafted by Jesse Armstrong and Sam Bain, brought a novel approach to sitcom storytelling through its distinctive first-person perspective. Featuring David Mitchell and Robert Webb as Mark and Jez, two incompatible flatmates grappling with the challenges of adulthood, the series was rich in dark humour and brutally honest inner thoughts. With its clever writing and relatable social anxieties Peep Show emerged as a cult classic and one of the most quotable British comedies of the century.

The IT Crowd (2006-2013)

The IT Crowd. Image shows from L to R: Roy (Chris O'Dowd), Jen (Katherine Parkinson), Moss (Richard Ayoade), Douglas Reynholm (Matt Berry). Copyright: TalkbackThames

Graham Linehan's The IT Crowd introduced a unique and absurd take on workplace comedy. Set in the IT department of the fictional Reynholm Industries, the show featured Chris O'Dowd, Richard Ayoade and Katherine Parkinson as a team of socially awkward tech employees navigating their quirky boss and the chaos of their workplace. Filled with surreal humour, geeky references, and memorable catchphrases, The IT Crowd continues to be a cherished classic among fans of British comedy.

Gavin & Stacey (2007-2010, 2019 and 2024 Christmas Specials)

Gavin & Stacey. Image shows from L to R: Bryn (Rob Brydon), Gwen (Melanie Walters), Nessa (Ruth Jones), Stacey (Joanna Page), Gavin (Mathew Horne), Smithy (James Corden), Pam (Alison Steadman), Mick (Larry Lamb). Copyright: Baby Cow Productions

Created by James Corden and Ruth Jones, Gavin & Stacey is a charming and funny sitcom that explores a long-distance relationship between Gavin (Mathew Horne) from Essex and Stacey (Joanna Page) from Wales. The series is filled with endearing characters, clever dialogue, and touching moments, particularly through fan-favourites like Uncle Bryn (Rob Brydon) and Nessa (Ruth Jones). Blending family drama with comedy, Gavin & Stacey became one of the most cherished sitcoms of its era, highlighted by a record-breaking Christmas special in 2019.

The final episode of this beloved British sitcom which was aired only a few months ago, achieved the top spot, drawing in an impressive 20+ million viewers!

Friday Night Dinner (2011-2020)

Friday Night Dinner. Image shows from L to R: Martin (Paul Ritter), Jonny (Tom Rosenthal), Adam (Simon Bird), Jackie (Tamsin Greig). Copyright: Popper Pictures / Big Talk Productions

Friday Night Dinner, created by Robert Popper, is a lively and chaotic sitcom that revolves around the weekly family dinners of the Goodman family. Featuring Simon Bird, Tom Rosenthal, Tamsin Greig and the late Paul Ritter, the show brilliantly showcases the absurdity of family dynamics, largely due to Ritter's quirky and comedic portrayal of Martin Goodman. With its outrageous running gags and unforgettable one-liners, Friday Night Dinner has become a beloved favourite and a modern British classic.

Derry Girls (2018-2022)

Derry Girls. Image shows from L to R: Orla McCool (Louisa Harland), Erin Quinn (Saoirse-Monica Jackson), Clare Devlin (Nicola Coughlan), Michelle Mallon (Jamie-Lee O'Donnell), James Maguire (Dylan Llewellyn). Copyright: Hat Trick Productions

Lisa McGee's Derry Girls is a uniquely charming sitcom set in 1990s Northern Ireland, focusing on a group of teenage girls (along with one "wee English fella") as they navigate school life, friendships, and the backdrop of the Troubles. The show's quick-witted humour, memorable characters, and nostalgic atmosphere contributed to its immediate success. With standout performances from Nicola Coughlan, Saoirse-Monica Jackson and Jamie-Lee O'Donnell, Derry Girls delivered a delightful mix of comedy and touching moments, establishing itself as one of the funniest sitcoms of the century.

British sitcoms have consistently pushed the limits of comedy, and these six shows have left a lasting impression on viewers with their memorable characters and side-splitting narratives. From the cringeworthy realism of The Office to the quirky escapades of The IT Crowd and the charming wit of Gavin & Stacey, these sitcoms have secured their status as some of the funniest in the history of British television.