Not the Nine O'Clock News

Not the Nine O’Clock News is a groundbreaking, satirical British sketch show that aired from 1979 to 1982, available to watch on BritBox. This seminal comedy series is known for its sharp, anarchic, and often controversial humour, making it one of the most influential shows of its generation.

Born out of the turbulent socio-political landscape of the late '70s in the United Kingdom, Not the Nine O'Clock News was an edgy departure from the more conventional comedy shows of its time. As its tongue-in-cheek title implies, the show was designed as a comedic antidote to the main Nine O'Clock News bulletin on BBC1, adding a sprinkle of humour to the issues of the day. The show asserts itself by throwing comedic jabs at a spectrum of targets including political institutions, public figures, social norms, traditional media, and popular culture of the time.

This innovative, engaging programme is structured around a cauldron of sketches, spoof news items, witty one-liners, and parody songs, interconnected via rapid editing and clever transitions. The arrival of new concepts and formats was not only confined to Only Fools and Horses or Fawlty Towers - Not the Nine O'Clock news redefined the way comedy was done both stylistically and thematically. It was unafraid to blaze new trails and step into territory that was previously uncharted for television comedy, resulting in a show that was highly entertaining as well as culturally significant.

With its fearless and irreverent approach to comedy, the series struck a chord with its audience. However, it was not just the innovative format and boundary-pushing content that made Not the Nine O'Clock News a hit. The extraordinary talents of its four main cast members, including Griff Rhys Jones, Mel Smith, Pamela Stephenson, and a young Rowan Atkinson, were equally as instrumental in the show's success. Each brought their own unique comedic style and charisma to the show, complementing each other’s performances and helping to form the perfect ensemble.

The series launched the career of Rowan Atkinson, who would later achieve international stardom as the creator and star of Mr. Bean and Blackadder. Not the Nine O’Clock News demonstrated his sparkling wit and comedic prowess, often showcasing his gift for physical comedy and comedic timing in the sketches. On the other hand, Griff Rhys Jones and Mel Smith went on to form the successful comedy duo of Smith and Jones, who continue to leave their impact on British comedy. Pamela Stephenson, too, was a revelation, bringing a vibrant energy to the show and proving herself as an excellent comedic actress.

Not the Nine O’Clock News was fearless in its comedic voice by pushing boundaries and crossing lines, while unafraid to make bold, political statements. The show took a satirical and often cynical view of the world – a world plagued by societal tensions, divisive politics, and grave global events. The show made an impact by managing to tread the fine line between comedy and commentary, adding a fresh, vital voice to the public discourse of the time.

Amidst the laughs and the wisecracks, Not the Nine O’Clock News had a serious undercurrent. Its sketches often forced viewers to confront their own biases and question the status quo. It was a piece of satire that skewered the hypocrisies and excesses of late 20th century society.

In retrospect, Not the Nine O'Clock News was, and remains, a landmark endeavour that pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable for comedy. It made a virtue out of pushing social, political, and creative limits, leaving an indelible impact on television comedy in the process.

Available on BritBox, viewers can enjoy all episodes of this iconic series reminding us of a time when comedy was not just for laugher's sake but to provide a mirror to society. Even today, its quick-witted quips and bold sketches continue to resonate, making Not the Nine O’Clock News as relevant now as it was in its golden period.