Fans of classic British television have a reason to celebrate this weekend, as the beloved Scottish sitcom Still Game has landed on BBC iPlayer in its entirety.
A Glaswegian Comedy Gem
The hit show, which boasts an impressive 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, follows the misadventures of two elderly Glaswegian pensioners, Jack Jarvis and Victor McDade. Created and portrayed by Ford Kiernan and Greg Hemphill, the duo navigate modern life with a healthy dose of grumbling and a penchant for getting into trouble at their local pub.
Reviewers have lavished praise on the series, calling it "an institution" and "a Glaswegian comedy gem." Its unique blend of hilarious and heart-breaking moments has cemented its status as a fan favourite.
From Burnout to Triumphant Return
Still Game first aired in 2002 and went on to produce a total of 62 episodes, including popular Christmas and Hogmanay specials. After the sixth series concluded in 2007, creators Kiernan and Hemphill stepped back, citing burnout but denying any feud between them.
The show made a triumphant return in 2016 for its seventh series, with the duo once again writing and starring. The ninth and final series was broadcast in February 2019, after which the iconic characters were officially put into "comedy retirement."
Praise from Fans and Critics Alike
On IMDb, the show has been dubbed an "all-time classic" by viewers. One fan review highlighted the show's timeless quality, stating, "The basic messaging will still be relevant and funny in another 30 years."
The reviewer also praised the exceptional character development and consistent writing, even going so far as to claim it was "better written than Only Fools and Horses." Many other users have awarded the series a perfect 10/10 score, with one noting it made them "pine for a friendship as close" as the one shared by Jack and Victor.
With all nine series now available for streaming, both long-time admirers and new viewers have the perfect opportunity to dive into the world of this iconic Scottish comedy.
