Humanlike: BBC Comedy Stirs Controversy as It Makes a Comeback After 20 Years Despite Calls for a ‘Boycott

 

Little Britain,” the divisive BBC comedy series that first aired two decades ago, is poised to return to terrestrial TV screens.

The iconic show is making a comeback this Christmas season, taking centre stage in That’s TV’s festive lineup. The network has unveiled its intentions to broadcast all three original seasons of the programme, which debuted back in 2003.

Set for nightly airings, the series will commence on Saturday, 16th December, at 9:05 pm. Conceived by creators David Walliams and Matt Lucas as a sketch series, it features an array of eccentric British characters. However, the duo encountered criticism for their portrayal of certain characters within the show.

The use of blackface and controversial humour resulted in the removal of the series from BBC and Netflix platforms. However, the show has been reinstated on the BBC, albeit with notable changes. Characters like Ting Tong Macadangdang, portrayed by Matt, and roles involving David in blackface, such as Pastor Jesse King and Desiree DeVere, have been excluded.

Regarding the airing of the popular comedy, Kris Vaiksalu commented, ‘This season is about spreading joy and laughter. We’re particularly thrilled to showcase the comedic talent of Matt Lucas and David Walliams as we commemorate 20 years since the launch of Little Britain.

He expressed that the show’s debut propelled them into the limelight as “comedy icons.” “Twenty years ago, when the show first aired, it swiftly became a cultural sensation, elevating Lucas and Walliams to the status of comedic icons. On this anniversary, it’s particularly meaningful for us to feature Little Britain every evening as part of our Christmas week comedy festival.

“This time of year holds a special significance, and we aim to spread joy with a greater number of Christmas comedy specials than we’ve ever aired before.” Reflecting on his involvement in the show, Matt Lucas stated in 2017: “If I had the chance to redo Little Britain, I would refrain from making jokes about transvestites and portraying black characters.

Essentially, I wouldn’t produce that show in today’s climate as it could offend people. Our brand of humour back then was more unkind than what I would create now.”

The comedian shared insights about the series in his latest book ‘TV: Big Adventures on the Small Screen’, expressing regret about the criticism directed towards Matt Lucas and David Walliams. “It’s unfortunate that Matt and David faced significant backlash in recent years for their previous work. I find that regrettable.