TV Comedy Preview: 10th to 16th February 2014
This week, 10th to 16th February 2014, looks set to be a really great one in terms of new television comedy. Just look at these highlights...
Every one of these 7 minute slices of comedy is a real treat thanks to the superb and charming stop-motion animation used to bring the stories to life. We're very lucky to be getting another five brand new episodes across the week. The farmer wins the lottery in one... but can the dog keep the ticket safe? Daily, 3:50pm, CBBC. Guide
The Life Of Rock With Brian Pern
This spoof music documentary mini-series has been put together with real love and care. Check out the trailer in our guide to get a taste. Simon Day stars as a faded rocker looking back on the 'golden days' of music, and the show is packed with other recognisable faces too - look out for the likes of Matt Lucas and Vic & Bob in supporting roles. Monday, 10pm, BBC Four. Guide
Much comment has been passed about how much the kids in this sitcom have grown up now. This is particularly evident this week when Ben, the family's middle child, is suddenly transfixed upon meeting Pete's goddaughter, who has just arrived from Australia and thinks nothing of parading around the house in just a towel. There's a preview clip in our guide. Wednesday, 9pm, BBC One. Guide
This surreal sitcom finishes on a double-bill. Aside from delivering such a rich world of oddness, this comedy has become notable for its guest stars, and this week is no different. The first episode stars Sir Derek Jacobi, whilst the second features the one and only Olivia Colman (looking very different). Wednesday, 10pm, Sky Atlantic. Guide
This week's episode from the new anthology series by Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton blew us away. It's even better than last week's great opener. It's much lighter in tone, and contains a number of really good laugh-out-loud moments. There's no dialogue though - it's a bold and brilliant half hour of television. Don't miss it whatever you do! Wednesday, 10pm, BBC Two. Guide
Episode 7 of the holiday-based sitcom, and weirdly this is the last one in the series (what a strange number of episodes to order). We now know Madge is ok, but what about Kenneth? Will he survive what was looking very much like the start of a heart attack? Elsewhere, hotel boss Crystal Henessy-Vass (guest star Joan Collins) arrives for an inspection. Thursday, 9pm, ITV1. Guide
Friday is Valentine's Day, and whether or not you've got a date night planned, this new one-off special from the HH gang looks set to be the highlight of the day for everyone. Featuring some classic love-based sketches alongside all new 'romantic' sketches, don't miss the historical hearts involved. Friday, 5pm, CBBC. Guide
This PG Wodehouse-based series was one of the delights of last year. It's back for a second series at last, with Tim Vine now installed as Beach the butler. The show is a perfect way to unwind on a Sunday evening, and first up in the guest star role is Harry Enfield as the most obnoxious man in England. Sunday, 6:30pm, BBC One. Guide
Other new things on telly this week include a woman-based dilemma for Andy in Uncle; Bob's ex-wife on the horizon in House Of Fools; more than one financial crisis for Birds Of A Feather; a break up in The Midnight Beast; Miles Jupp on Room 101; Brenda's Buses starting up in Stella; Olivia Colman joining Lee Mack on Duck Quacks Don't Echo; and more.
For a complete summary of all the British comedy on TV this week, including all the main repeats, plus radio comedy too, see our full schedule
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