Despite the fact that the United States and the United Kingdom have a common language, it takes a special kind of show to make it big in both countries. Thankfully, over the years there have been a number of British shows that have made a big impact in America, across a variety of genres from comedy to drama. Here’s a look at the top British imports that have been popular in America.
Comedies
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Monty Python’s Flying Circus: This classic sketch comedy series began airing in the U.S. on PBS during the early 70s, and was an instant hit among college students. The surreal humor poked fun at British culture in endlessly amusing ways, and has gone down in TV history as one of the most amazing British imports of all time.
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The Office: This mockumentary style show spoofs typical office politics to hilarious effect, and became an instant hit when it aired on BBC America. All of the characters are memorable, and it was one of the first shows to introduce a darker brand of comedy similar to what you might find on Curb Your Enthusiasm or Louie.
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Red Dwarf: The sci-fi comedy from the BBC aired on BBC America in the mid-90s and was a huge hit with cable viewers. Despite getting a late start in America, the show spawned several books, videogames, and webisodes, making it one of the most beloved British imports to the states.
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Absolutely Fabulous: This outrageous British comedy about 2 fashion publicists and their boozy escapades became wildly popular in America when it aired on Comedy Central. Its irreverent humor, two-dimensional characters, and colorful costumes made it an instant hit among Americans looking for something different.
Dramas
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Doctor Who: The iconic British sci-fi series has been fascinating American viewers since the 1960s with its endlessly mysterious plotlines and interesting characters. Over the years, Doctor Who has become an institution in the states and remains one of the most popular British shows ever exported.
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Sherlock: Using modern-day London as a backdrop, this show follows the adventures of the world’s most famous fictional detective. After its U.S. debut in 2010 on PBS, the show quickly gained a huge fan following among American viewers.
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Downton Abbey: A highly praised show from Julian Fellowes, Downton Abbey was a massive success when it aired on PBS. With its stunning sets and gripping storylines, it quickly won the hearts of U.S. viewers, who have been tuning in for show updates since its debut in 2010.
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Midsomer Murders: This corny British detective show aired in the states in the late 1990s, and has continued to be popular among mystery fans. The show follows DCI Tom Barnaby as he solves interesting cases in a quaint little village, and its kooky situations and British charm make it an endearing import.
Reality
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The Great British Bake Off: This beloved baking show also known as the Great British Baking Show has been entertaining British and American audiences since it aired on PBS in 2013. With its peaceful competitive spirit and detailed recipes, this show has been a hit with at-home bakers looking to hone their skills and gain inspiration.
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Top Gear: This show popularized car culture in the states when it aired on BBC America, with its two hosts Richard Hammond and Jeremy Clarkson quickly developing a loyal following. The show spawned an American spin-off, but it failed to catch on with viewers and was cancelled in 2017.
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Antiques Roadshow: This beloved BBC show has been entertaining British and American viewers since the late 90s. It follows viewers as they take treasured items to knowledgeable experts and find out their value, and it’s been a hit with the public for its interesting and sometimes surprising results.
Britain and the United States have enjoyed a cultural exchange since long before television, but the medium has been a great way for the two countries to come together and share in their mutual love of entertainment. From comedies to reality shows, the U.K. has provided some of America’s all-time favorite television shows, and there’s sure to be more to come.