TV Show spotlight
Porridge is a British situation comedy broadcast on BBC1 from 1974 to 1977, running for three series, two Christmas specials and a feature film also titled Porridge. Written by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais, it stars Ronnie Barker and Richard Beckinsale as two inmates at the fictional HMP Slade in Cumberland. "Doing porridge" is British slang for serving a prison sentence, porridge once being the traditional breakfast in UK prisons. The series was followed by a 1978 sequel, Going Straight, which established that Fletcher would not be going back to prison again. Porridge was voted number seven in a 2004 BBC poll of the 100 greatest British sitcoms.
Set within the confines of a fictional British prison, 'Porridge' follows the daily escapades of Norman Stanley Fletcher, a habitual criminal serving time for his numerous offenses. Alongside his naive young cellmate Lennie Godber and a host of eccentric inmates and strict guards, Fletcher navigates the absurdities and challenges of prison life with wit and cunning. The series humorously explores themes of camaraderie, survival, and the often-bizarre routines within the penal system.
Porridge is widely regarded as one of the greatest British sitcoms of all time, celebrated for its sharp writing, relatable characters, and brilliant performances. It successfully blended humor with a gritty portrayal of prison life, earning critical acclaim and immense popularity with audiences. The show's enduring legacy is cemented by its relatable humor and iconic catchphrases.
Praised for its authentic portrayal of prison camaraderie and the mundane realities of incarceration.
Ronnie Barker's central performance as Fletcher is consistently lauded for its comedic genius and nuanced characterization.
The show skillfully balances humor with moments of pathos, making the characters feel grounded and human.
Google audience: Audience reviews consistently highlight the brilliant comedic writing and the exceptional performances, particularly from Ronnie Barker. Many viewers appreciate its classic British humor and its ability to find levity in a serious setting. It's often cited as a nostalgic favorite that holds up remarkably well.
BAFTA Television Award for Best Situation Comedy (1976, 1977). Nominated for numerous other awards.
The character of Norman Stanley Fletcher was based on Ronnie Barker's own father, who served time in prison for petty theft before World War II.
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It's hard to believe that there were only ever twenty episodes of this classic British comedy ever made. Ronnie Barker ("Fletch") is fantastic as the habitual criminal sent to Her Majesty's Prison "Slade" - perched in the northern reaches o...