BBC Four
Launched in 2002, BBC Four is the most high-brow of the BBC TV channels. Having replaced BBC Knowledge (launched in 1999), it is available on all digital platforms. BBC Four exists to provide alternatives to the programmes on mainstream TV and thus the comedies found on this channel tend to be quite niche in scope. As BBC Four is focused on arts and factual series, it does not have much room for comedy - however, so far, it has managed to achieve a very high hit rate. The Thick Of It and Lead Balloon both started life on this channel.
On BBC Four today
The Generation Game
Bruce Forsyth presents outrageous fun and games with families from around the country.
Blankety Blank
Series 2, Episode 7Comedy panel-game-show of missing words hosted in turn by Terry Wogan, Les Dawson, Lily Savage and Bradley Walsh.
Blankety Blank
Series 1, Episode 4Terry Wogan hosts a new comedy quiz game in which contestants attempt to match their 'blanks' with six guest celebrities. A game all the family can play at home; a game with no right or wrong answers - a simple formula which relies on everyone to be witty with words.
Keeping Up Appearances
Series 1, Episode 1Daddy is taken to hospital - quite inconvenient on the evening of Hyacinth's latest candle-lit supper.
Butterflies
Series 2, Episode 2Ria is upset when she encounters a fox hunt when out in the country with Ben, and is so appalled by its apparent cruelty that she resolves to do something about it. She determines to mount a protest.