Although most of the western world is familiar with American media, the United States is a bit self-centered when it comes to entertainment. Most other countries are much more exposed to pop culture throughout the world. I am not saying that American entertainment is not a thriving business in itself — it clearly is. However, if you do not actively search for variety in your entertainment — television in particular — you are likely missing out on some great programming. If you are not familiar with any British television and you have been wondering what TV shows should be on next on your "to watch" list, look no further: here is a list of great British-made shows with varying renown.
1. "The IT Crowd"
Set in the IT department of a large London office building, "The IT Crowd" uses dry humor and a lot of puns to follow the story of a woman who doesn't know what the "IT" in "IT Department" stands for, learning to work with her awkward and hilarious colleagues at her new job.
2. "Doctor Who"
Considering "Dr. Who" has been incredibly popular since its creation in 1963, you have probably heard of it at least once. One of the most classic sci-fi series ever created, the show's alien protagonist, The Doctor, takes viewers on thrilling adventures through both time and space.
3. "The Catherine Tate Show"
If you enjoy sketch comedy, this is a must see. One of the UK's most beloved comedians, Catherine Tate, lives up to expectations with her vast array of hilarious characters. From Nan Taylor, a foul-mouthed old woman who delights in everything awful, to Lauren Cooper, a rebellious and hilariously disrespectful teenage girl, Tate's ridiculous characters are bound to make you laugh.
4. "Downton Abbey"
If you have ever wondered what a soap opera — with admittedly better writing — would have looked like in the 1910s and 20s, "Downton Abbey" is the answer. Known for its spectacular costumes and high drama, "Downton Abbey" draws you not only into the world of an upper-class English family, but also gives you a glimpse into the lives of their servants as well.
5. "Broadchurch"
Shortly after the success of this small town crime drama in the UK, Fox launched a less-successful and unnecessarily Americanized version of the show called "Gracepoint." While "Gracepoint" was not awful, it was by no means the hit that "Broadchurch" was. If crime dramas interest you, I recommend giving the original version a watch. After all, with the small exception of the US adaptation of "The Office," most original versions of television shows are, with good reason, more successful than any attempts to recreate them.
6. "The Great British Bake Off"
"The Great British Bake Off" is basically what you would get if Comedy Central and The Food Network joined forces to create one program. I highly recommend it.
7. "Sherlock"
Everyone knows the story of Sherlock Holmes, but "Sherlock" is not your average remake of the original books and short stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Boasting some of the greatest writing and acting that television has ever seen, the show's creators bring a modernized and fresh twist to the crime solving duo of Sherlock Holmes and John Watson.
