TV Comedy Preview: 3rd to 9th February 2014
This week, 3rd to 9th February 2014, sees some great TV making its début...
Everybody's favourite sheep is back for a fourth series of adventures - there's a new 10 minute episode every day this week to enjoy. Admittedly you do have to find CBBC on your TV to see them, but even if you don't have kids it's worth doing just that to sample delights like an alien visiting the farm. Daily, 3:50pm, CBBC. Guide
Uncle has had a strange effect on us - it's made us actually look forward to Mondays. This week the odd pairing of slacker uncle and uptight nephew have to attend a family dinner. It means Andy must compete with 'cool' uncle Rex. Monday, 10pm, BBC Three. Guide
Stephen Mangan guest stars in the surreal sitcom this week. He plays Mr Lovely, the owner of a jumper shop whose livelihood is threatened when Maven issues an island-wide ban on knitwear. Wednesday, 10pm, Sky Atlantic. Guide
We're trying desperately hard not to over-hype this new series from Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith, but it's hard to hide our enthusiasm for Inside No. 9. Fans of black comedy will adore it. Every week is totally different - this first one sees a host of great actors appearing in a cupboard. Wednesday, 10pm, BBC Two. Guide
The ratings-topping new series continues. This week David Cardy returns to the show as Chris Theodopolopodous, Sharon's estranged husband. Chris wants a divorce so he and the new woman in his life can get married... but Tracey has her doubts about the situation. Thursday, 8:30pm, ITV1. Guide
Millions watch Top Gear each week, but Lee Mack explains to Frank Skinner in this episode why he wants the motoring show sent to the Orwellian room. Also appearing this week are Ruby Wax and chef Dave Myers. Friday, 8:30pm, BBC One. Guide
Lee Mack again. This is his new show in which he attempts to prove whether 'facts' are true or not. For example, are shrimps really fitter than humans? And is it possible to sneeze with your eyes open? Friday, 10pm, Sky1. Guide
A new comedy show based around the Winter Olympics. In a direct challenge, the BBC have scheduled this new Alan Davies vehicle directly against The Last Leg (Channel 4, 10pm), a show that - four series in - has already proved itself to be a popular choice for sport-loving comedy fans. Friday, 10pm, BBC Two. Guide
A new comedy drama from Sam Bain and Jesse Armstrong, the writers behind hits including Peep Show and Fresh Meat. Babylon is directed by Danny Boyle and stars a whole host of recognisable comedy actors. If that's not enough to tempt you to watch, we don't know what is. This is the pilot episode, a full six-part series is being written now. Sunday, 9pm, Channel 4. Guide
New sitcom episodes to be found during the week also include House Of Fools, Outnumbered, Benidorm, The Midnight Beast and Stella.
For a complete summary of all the British comedy on TV this week, including all the main repeats, films and radio comedy, see our full schedule
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