TV Comedy Preview: 17th to 23rd March 2014
Here's eight new things we'll be watching on TV this week, the 17th to 23rd March 2014...
The Michael McIntyre Chat Show
There was a mixed reaction to the début of the new chat show from Britain's favourite stand-up comedian last week. The 'txt all' game was a definite highlight though. This week Michael McIntyre has a proper big exclusive booking that's worth tuning in for - a rare interview with Sir David Jason! Monday, 10:35pm, BBC One. Guide
Parkinson: Masterclass
Michael Parkinson interviews Eddie Izzard in-depth on his Sky Arts show. The comedian discusses his early career spent as a street performer, the 'zigzag' path he took towards stand-up, his Hollywood movie career and the 43 marathons he ran over just 51 days in 2009. This will be a delight for all his fans. Tuesday, Sky Arts 1, 8pm.
This spin-off from Twenty Twelve, which sees Ian Fletcher (Hugh Bonneville) now working at the BBC, looks set to be a real highlight. Anyone who works in a 'hot desk' environment will empathise as Ian tries to find somewhere to sit. There's character guides and videos in our guide. Wednesday, 10pm, BBC Two. Guide
A new Wednesday night slot for this show, as Series 2 continues. If you've not seen it before, it is worth a look... through your fingers. Watching Roisin Conaty, Marek Larwood, Joel Dommett and Paul McCaffrey undertaking embarrassing tasks like navigating a supermarket whilst touching other customers is funny and painful at the same time. Wednesday, 10:30pm, BBC Three. Guide
Arena: Whatever Happened To Spitting Image?
It's 30 years since Spitting Image launched. As is explained in this Arena documentary, at the height of its powers the satirical show was almighty powerful. 15 million viewers tuned in some weeks - that meant any political messages it chose to broadcast had more impact than the likes of The Sun newspaper could deliver. Tune in to find out more from the creators. Thursday, 9pm, BBC Four. Guide
Sports Relief on Friday will mainly involve lots of earnest, fit, not entirely charismatic sports people trying to get you to donate to charity. Luckily comedy is getting involved too though - presenters including Jack Whitehall and David Walliams, and there's sporty-specials from new show W1A and the panel show Mock The Week. Without a doubt the big draw though is the new Only Fools And Horses special. Friday, from 7pm, BBC One. Trailer
In this week's compilation of the best bits of Morecambe and Wise, Ernie attempts to 'get with it', Eric forgets his Mr Memory, and Yehudi Menuhin gets an offer he can refuse. Meanwhile Glenda Jackson dons her ballgown and brings a touch of class to proceedings. You can re-watch this last sketch now. Saturday, 8pm, BBC Two. Video Clip
This week in the charming old fashioned world of PG Wodehouse Hannibal (guest star John Sessions) - the brother of Dunstable (the character played by Harry Enfield in the first week, if you recall). He is terrorising Clarence over a dubious painting. Meanwhile, Connie decides to get Hannibal married to her new American friend Vanessa. Sunday, 6:30pm, BBC One. Guide
Also new this week: Moone Boy, My Mad Fat Diary, Pramface, Bluestone 42, The Walshes, Celebrity Juice, Some Football Managers With Jokes, Stella, Edge Of Heaven, Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle, 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
Help us publish more great content by becoming a BCG Supporter. You'll be backing our mission to champion, celebrate and promote British comedy in all its forms: past, present and future.
We understand times are tough, but if you believe in the power of laughter we'd be honoured to have you join us. Advertising doesn't cover our costs, so every single donation matters and is put to good use. Thank you.
Love comedy? Find out more