British comedy characters having a flutter

Gambling isn't always a funny subject. There's plenty of times in life when people have looked very serious or anxious when it comes to risking their money. For example, we can't really remember James Bond looking too happy in a casino.

But, in the world of British comedy, there have been a number of times when comedy characters and gambling have come together to make us laugh.

The ambitious schemes of Del Boy Trotter in Only Fools And Horses, the intimate yet hilarious struggles of Mark and Jeremy in Peep Show, and the cunning antics of Rowan Atkinson's character in Blackadder have all etched their mark on British television.

Let's take a look here what happened when each of them risked some money...

Only Fools And Horses

This beloved British sitcom pushed gambling into its comedic waters a number of times. Created by John Sullivan, and known for its very catchy theme song, the comedy showcased actor David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst as brothers who always wished to become millionaires one day.

One of the most loved scenes in British comedy history, featuring one of the best punchlines ever written, was based around a gambling situation. As seen in the video above from the Series 2 episode A Losing Streak, Del Boy plays a high-stakes game of poker with Boycie and, well, let's just say not everyone was playing fairly in an attempt to win the money on the table.

Peep Show

As the name might suggest, this 2003 to 2015 sitcom peeped into the lives of Mark Corrigan and Jeremy Usbourne. Staring David Mitchell and Robert Webb as the duo, it was created by Jesse Armstrong and Sam Bain, known for their work on several critically acclaimed comedy series.

Gambling was used to reflect the characters' flaws. They seek excitement beyond their daily routines and in particular, the episode titled Jeremy Makes It sheds light on Jeremy's attempt at real money online casinos. As he suffers from addiction, he tries to hide it from his flat mate which leads to funny situations.

The blend of comedy and gambling in Peep Show captures the absurdity and unpredictability of life, making it a standout series for fans of both humour and relatable human flaws.

Blackadder

The 1987 series of this popular sitcom was set during the Georgian Era, and followed a version of Edmund Blackadder serving as the butler to the Prince Regent. His task is to navigate or capitalise on the fads of the age embraced by his master.

In one episode, titled Nob and Nobility, Blackadder and his loyal sidekick, Baldrick, venture to France during the French Revolution. There, they encounter a French aristocrat named Comte de Frou-Frou. The Comte hosts a lavish gambling den, which includes a casino. Blackadder, always resourceful, tries to exploit the situation for financial gain. The casino scene adds a touch of intrigue and absurdity to the series, as Blackadder navigates the chaotic world of French nobility and revolution.