1. Introduction:
Are You Being Served? is a British sitcom that first aired in 1972 and ran for ten series until 1985. The show falls into the genre of sitcom, with comedy at its core. Known for its hilarious characters and witty writing, Are You Being Served? has become a beloved classic in the world of British television.
2. Background:
Created and written by Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft, Are You Being Served? was produced by the BBC and later by Thames Television. Jeremy Lloyd had previously worked on successful sitcoms like ‘Allo ‘Allo! and David Croft had been involved in iconic shows such as Dad’s Army and It Ain’t Half Hot Mum. With their combined talents, they brought the world of Grace Brothers department store to life.
3. Plot and Format:
Are You Being Served? is set in the fictional London department store, Grace Brothers. The show revolves around the day-to-day experiences of the store’s staff, who consist of a colorful cast of characters ranging from the eccentric to the straight-laced. Each episode follows the staff as they navigate their work and personal lives, often encountering humorous situations and misunderstandings.
The format of the show primarily follows a traditional sitcom approach, with each episode containing self-contained storylines while incorporating ongoing character development. The humor often stems from the clash of personalities and the bumbling antics of the characters as they interact with both each other and the store’s customers.
4. Cast and Characters:
Are You Being Served? boasts a talented ensemble cast that helped bring the show’s characters to life. The main cast included:
– John Inman as Mr. Wilberforce Clayborne Humphries, a flamboyant and effeminate sales assistant known for his catchphrase, “I’m free!”
– Mollie Sugden as Mrs. Betty Slocombe, the head of the ladies’ department, known for her brightly colored hair and her constant references to her “pussy” (her pet cat).
– Frank Thornton as Captain Stephen Peacock, the floorwalker who is forever advocating proper behavior and ensuring that the store runs smoothly.
– Wendy Richard as Miss Shirley Brahms, a young and attractive assistant in the ladies’ department who often finds herself caught in funny situations.
– Trevor Bannister as Mr. Dick Lucas, a rather lecherous senior salesman who enjoys flirting with the female staff.
– Nicholas Smith as Mr. Cecil R. Rumbold, the bumbling and easily manipulated store manager.
Throughout its run, Are You Being Served? also featured appearances by guest stars such as Sir John Mills, Joan Sims, and Arthur Brough, adding to the show’s comedic charm.
5. Reception:
Are You Being Served? received positive reviews and gained a loyal following during its original run. The show’s distinctive characters and sharp writing contributed to its success. It also earned critical acclaim and achieved high audience ratings, becoming one of the BBC’s most popular sitcoms of the time.
In addition to its popularity, Are You Being Served? received several awards, including a BAFTA nomination for Best Situation Comedy in 1975. The show’s timeless humor continues to resonate with fans, and many episodes are still regularly repeated and cherished today.
6. Legacy:
Are You Being Served? left a lasting legacy in British television history. It showcased the brilliance of Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft as writers, establishing them as stalwarts in sitcom creation. The show played a significant role in defining the British sitcom genre, laying the foundation for subsequent sitcoms to follow.
The success of Are You Being Served? led to a sequel series called Grace & Favour (Are You Being Served? Again). This spin-off followed the main characters as they inherited a country manor and attempted to turn it into a hotel, maintaining the comedic spirit of the original show.
7. Conclusion:
Are You Being Served? is a timeless classic that has entertained audiences for decades. Combining memorable characters, clever writing, and a hilarious setting, the show left an indelible mark on British television. Its enduring popularity and influence on subsequent sitcoms are a testament to its comedic brilliance. Are You Being Served? continues to bring laughter to audiences around the world, reminding us of the power of unforgettable characters and good-natured humor.
