Close
My Family Series 8
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Since we've begun chatting about series 8 in the series seven thread, I thought it'd be best to create a new one. If only for reviews etc. The first episode airs next Friday (April 11th), at 9pm on BBC One.
Quote:SITCOM: My Family
On: BBC 1
Date: Friday 11th April 2008
Time: 21:00 to 21:30
The Parent Trap. Series 8, episode 1.
Sitcom about a dentist and his family. Ben takes delivery of a neighbour's plasma screen television and falls in love with it, but it seems that Michael's current love interest may be expecting a delivery of something smaller but more problematic.
Starring: Robert Lindsay, Zoë Wanamaker, Gabriel Thomson, Siobhan Hayes, Keiron Self, Daniela Denby-Ashe
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
I actually like the synopsis for this episode as men with plasma screen TV's are funny.
Ask my dad lol.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jack Massey said:
Just six episodes in this series. Series 9 has also being filmed. Last of the Summer Wine- Watch out!
Damn it though- it clashes with Benidorm. Why can't it be like the good old days and be a 8.30 Friday night sitcom.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jake How said:
I can't wait to see it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Jack Massey @ April 4 2008, 2:00 PM BSTJust six episodes in this series. Series 9 has also being filmed. Last of the Summer Wine- Watch out!
Damn it though- it clashes with Benidorm. Why can't it be like the good old days and be a 8.30 Friday night sitcom.
View original
You need to get a Top Up TV box!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jack Massey said:
No no, what's the point when there's Iplayer.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
1) iPlayer doesn't give you access to dozens of extra channels.
2) iPlayer only allows access to BBC channels, and even then it doesn't always work.
3) iPlayer forces you to watch the shows on your computer.
4) iPlayer has time limits.
5) etc...
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Andrew M Bedell said:
An observation I made watching the first episode last night, Zoe Wannamaker has a new hair style for every episode. This new one isn't one of her best.
Thought it was a good episode, but where did Alfie go?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Andrew M Bedell @ April 12 2008, 9:49 AM BSTAn observation I made watching the first episode last night, Zoe Wannamaker has a new hair style for every episode. This new one isn't one of her best.
Thought it was a good episode, but where did Alfie go?
View original
The cutting room floor, where he should have been last series.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Andrew M Bedell said:
Quote: Aaron @ April 12 2008, 10:59 AM BSTThe cutting room floor, where he should have been last series.
View original
I'm guessing he was brought in as a poor replacement for Nick, but i agree, he didnmt bring anything to the show.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jack Massey said:
Will watch the repeat as I watched Benidorm last night. Repeated tomorrow afternoon. Next Fridays episode looks a good one- the first without Zoe Wanamaker- Ben gets involved in a hold up at a bank.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
But, but, does that mean no Michael?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jack Massey said:
I don't know. I yes, I forgot, you have a bit of a thing for him.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, catskillz said:
Is Michael the youngest son? By the way, what's meant to have happened to the lanky oldest son, who used to pretend to be a Cockney?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
I don't know what's happened to the oldest son. He wasn't in the last series either was he?
Quote: catskillz @ April 12 2008, 5:27 PM BSTIs Michael the youngest son?
View original
That's him!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yes zooo, Michael will be in next week's episode.
And I think Nick hasn't been in the show for a good three or four series' now, unfortunately. Don't actually know what's meant to have happened to him. Only get the odd passing reference to his dim-wittedness now.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
I haven't actually watched the new episode yet but will do tomorrow but what is the general opinion on the show these days.
I mean isn't this like the 8th series ?, That's pretty unheard of in modern day comedy.
I also read there already planning the 9th series.
So is there still something to the series as didn't Zoe Wanamaker critise it a while ago.
Yet still comes back for the pay check.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yep, this is series 8, and yes, series 9 audience tickets have already all gone.
(cheque*)
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, catskillz said:
Actually, Aaron, judging by your Avatar, don't you play the youngest son in My Family?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yes. I'm freaking loaded.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jack Massey said:
Just watched the opener to the new series. No matter how long it's been on, still very funny stuff. For me, though past its best, still has another few series left in it. Robert Lindsay is a legend.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
I too just finished watching it a while ago and I thought it was very good.
Robert Lindsey is great as usual and so is the entire cast.
The actor who plays Michael has certainly been in the gym.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Tell me about it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jack Massey said:
Quote: zooo @ April 13 2008, 8:11 PM BSTTell me about it.
View original
Said Zooo in her orgasm.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Richard Wells @ April 13 2008, 8:10 PM BSTThe actor who plays Michael has certainly been in the gym.
View original
I wish I had the time and money to myself!
Quote: Jack Massey @ April 13 2008, 8:14 PM BSTSaid Zooo in her orgasm.
View original
You know her so well.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jack Massey said:
It's you I'm worried for Aaron. Judging by your avatar, if she fancies Michael she fancies you.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
And I fancy Daniela Denby-Ashe
Boy is she hot.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Quote: Jack Massey @ April 13 2008, 9:25 PM BSTIt's you I'm worried for Aaron. Judging by your avatar, if she fancies Michael she fancies you.
View original
Don't go blonde Aaron!
Well, don't attempt to go blonde, but kind of end up a bit ginger.
Poor old Michael.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Ha! If I dyed my hair, I'd make it darker.
Although I did seriously consider having it closely shaven, pink, with yellow leopard spots once...
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jack Massey said:
...It's fun to stay at the YMCA... I'll let you judge my meaning.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Dave said:
Has Alfie left now? I hope he has.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Seems to have, yes. Good riddance.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
You would think that Nick would return for an episode here and there.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Quote: Dave @ April 16 2008, 11:19 AM BSTHas Alfie left now? I hope he has.
View original
Yes, he seems to have been written out... for now at least.
I resented that character as he was clearly just supposed to be "Nick version 2" but wasn't nearly as energetic or mad as Nick was.
A worrying sign for My Family - the episode in a couple of weeks time will see a situation they've done before, partly recycled (Ben thinks he's going to die soon). Then again seeing as every week is pretty much the same anyway I don't think anyone will notice.
(Just to point out: I'm not knocking My Family - whilst it isn't the pinacle of intelligent sitcom writing I do still enjoy it... probably partly due to its cosy familiarity)
Anyone else notice it's getting ruder though?... a few adult-ish jokes crept in last Friday.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Well it is on later I noticed.
Usually about 8.30 but now it's on at 9.30
Allowing for more adult humour I guess.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
It's on at 9pm this week. And then 9:30 next week. (Or that's what my TV guide is telling me at the moment.)
Still, at least the BBC are showing the episodes.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Dave said:
I'm glad Alfie has left. Although they haven't mentioned him (maybe Ben murdered him!) I think the living arrangements was getting a bit messy what with Abby AND Alfie both lodging there for free. There's nothing wrong with Michael being the only one living there, with Janey, Abby and Roger making regular visits. I'm glad Roger's still int it; he's my favourite character (apart from Ben). This Friday's episode looks good: Ben is involved in a bank heist and has to be the negotiator. I'm looking forward to it. I think the last great series was Series 5. I liked that one a lot. Hopefully, they can get back to good plots again.
I think it's going to stick around till 2010, making it a very 2000s sitcom.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Quote: Aaron @ April 16 2008, 3:42 PM BSTIt's on at 9pm this week. And then 9:30 next week. (Or that's what my TV guide is telling me at the moment.)
View original
Nope, it's 9:30 this week too. HIGNFY has the 9pm slot now.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Ah, they have changed it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Yes I can't wait for friday nights.
HIGNFY and My Family back to back.
I need cheering up again now that Al Murray has finished 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jack Massey said:
Again though- 8.30 would be more appropriate. That will clash with Teenage Kicks. You can go Friday's without good comedy and then you get it all at once.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Some people might say that My Family clashing with Teenage Kicks is a good thing lol.
Not me though as I like both but I have Sky+ so no big deal as I can record the other.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Good episode tonight.
Nice to see Pauline Quirke and Perry Benson again.
Perry will always be Henry from You Rang M'Lord to me though.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jack Massey said:
Yes, great episode. Does anybody know how old Perry Benson is. In You Rang M'Lord, you got the feeling he was an adult playing the young Henry.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Emmmaaaa Kenneedddyyyy!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
I actually remember Perry Benson better from playing Bones in Operation Good Guys. Whatever the case though, a great performance.
It was a fun episode wasn't it... but, for me, I must admit it was getting to see Georgia Moffett (the female police officer) on screen again which made it a great episode 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Was that Georgia Moffett?
Isn't she Peter Davidson's daughter.
I didn't realise, she did look hot though lol.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Dave said:
Susan wasn't in it, which was surprising. But it was a change to see Ben without the others - it struck me as very Hancockian. And - good news - Alfie has officialy left! Yippeee!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Richard Wells @ April 18 2008, 11:47 PM BSTWas that Georgia Moffett?
Isn't she Peter Davidson's daughter.
View original
Ahhhhhhhhhhh! THAT's where I recognised her from!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Glad you did because I didn't.
Must be that police suit that did it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
I love her because her character enabled some Michael cuddling. Woo.
And Emma Kennedy off the telly played an ace bank manager's assistant. And she looked hawt too.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
I didn't recognize her either lol.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Quote: Dave @ April 19 2008, 2:24 AM BSTSusan wasn't in it, which was surprising.
View original
It's the first episode she's not been in. Incidently everyone else has had episodes off in previous series so she's still got the highest appearance count.
Quote: Dave @ April 19 2008, 2:24 AM BSTBut it was a change to see Ben without the others - it struck me as very Hancockian.
View original
Yes, interesting.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Has Robert Lindsey ever missed an episode ?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Please reduce your signature to a maximum of about four lines, Richard. Thanks.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Sorry
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jake How said:
Quote: Richard Wells @ April 19 2008, 12:30 PM BSTHas Robert Lindsey ever missed an episode ?
View original
Yes one episode.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Wow I bet it wasn't a great episode then as aside from Nick, He is the best character.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Dave said:
Quote: Jake How @ April 19 2008, 2:01 PM BSTYes one episode.
View original
Two episodes, actually. In series 6, I think. Rosemary Leach guested in both as Susan's mother to bridge the gap; and Robert Bathurst was in one too. I thought the second episode without Robert Lindsay was one of the best episodes - but that was to do with the quality of the script, and not because of his absense.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Goldnutmeg said:
Very enjoyable episode which I've just seen on iPlayer, altho' wouldn't he have put the cheque in the ATM rather than gone into the bank to queue ..? 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Doubt it. He'd have wanted to make sure that it actually went in, rather than left it to some faceless machine.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
Just a quick question, why is this series going out at half past nine on rather than the traditional half past eight? Surely one of the main strengths of this show is that it's one of the beebs few pre-watershed comedies.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Dave said:
I want to know that too.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
I think they've been a bit more rudey. Perhaps. Didn't someone mention that? I think. Anyway.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Seefacts said:
Today's episode is written by a writer who got his break on Russ Abbott's Madhouse.
Excellent, god forbid they give new writers a chance.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yeah, 'cos most of them are a bit crap.
But seriously, a show as big as My Family, I don't think they're going to give to someone without experience.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Seefacts said:
Quote: Aaron @ April 25 2008, 9:36 PM BSTYeah, 'cos most of them are a bit crap.
But seriously, a show as big as My Family, I don't think they're going to give to someone without experience.
View original
Well, that's true . . . Hey, wait!!
Well, I'm not going to get into my thoughts on how the BBC should operate in these kind of shows, I've feeling shit as it is.
But this episode isn't helping.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jack Massey said:
Not a bad episode tonight.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Seefacts said:
Quote: Jack Massey @ April 25 2008, 10:09 PM BSTNot a bad episode tonight.
View original
Awful.
Barring 'Frank . . . Zodiac' which was a good gag.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Not 'awful', not great. Like Jack said, not bad.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Quote: Dave @ April 16 2008, 4:49 PM BSTI'm glad Alfie has left.
View original
Bad news for you Dave... guess who appears in this Friday's cast list?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Maybe they're attending his funeral?...
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
One can but hope.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Dave said:
I'm hoping it's a mistake. I think they must have realised their mistake with Alfie, they gave him two series - plenty of time to see if his character works or not.
What's more interesting is that Ben's selling up his dental practice. Maybe that shouldn't come as much as a shock; there hasn't been much happening there of late.
Edited by Aaron.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Quote: Dave @ April 29 2008, 1:52 AM BSTI'm hoping it's a mistake. I think they must have realised their mistake with Alfie, they gave him two series - plenty of time to see if his character works or not.
View original
I'm afraid not... Alfie is also in the episode the week after as well (another which Zoe Wanamaker is going to miss incidently)
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Dave said:
With Alfie, I feel like I'm watching a kids' sitcom - remember when he was singing "The Wheels on the Bus Go Round and Round" at Christmas 2005? That was the only time I've stopped watching My Family half way through. Seasoned criminals have been known to watch Alfie scenes and confess to murders they haven't even committed.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
There is no point in Alfie other than to annoy Ben, it seems. I wish he would go and fall down one of his country's mines. Seriously. THE worst, most pointless character in British sitcom of the past decade.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
No offence to the actor. It's not his fault they wrote him to be so annoying.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Andrew M Bedell said:
Not been impressed with this season yet. I supose I should give it more than a couple of episodes.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, feck, arse, drink, girls, gobshite said:
It all went downhill from series 6 and im not proud to say that. This show has been around for nearly 10 years and i think it should be considered as one of the greats
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
I don't mind Alfie anymore. He caused there to be a topless Michael scene. And then got in bed with him.
So it's all good.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Haha, I must have missed that scene. I still hate the character though.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Dave said:
It seems that Alfie hasn't moved back to Wales after all. Did I misunderstand it, or did Michael say he had gone back there at the beginning of the back robbery episode? Michael passed on Alfie's cheque to Ben for the last two year's rent; in tonight's episode, incidentally, Ben states that he hasn't been paid for it. I know the cheque was post-dated, but it's still bad continuity.
It's their own fault, of course. They must know he's terrible, they must know everybody hates him, but if he's going to be a (sub) plot device, than I don't suppose they care all that much.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
That's the peril of groups of writers working separately. Which I believe is what happens here?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Dave said:
Quote: Aaron @ May 2 2008, 9:59 PM BSTThat's the peril of groups of writers working separately. Which I believe is what happens here?
View original
Yeah, that's right. It can't be said to be a great success - the written by commitee method. The theory behind it is that if five writers are writing it, it must be five times better that just one person writing it. But John Sullivan wrote every single episode of Only Fools on his own.
Fred Barron is a bit of a big fish in a small pond. In the US, he was a nobody - just a writer on Caroline in the City - I mean, who would want to boast about that? - it's also a myth that he wrote for Seinfield. He says so himself. But because he's an American with a different way of doing things, the BBC were in awe of him, despite a rather lame CV.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Dave @ May 3 2008, 1:42 AM BSTFred Barron ... was ... just a writer on Caroline in the City - I mean, who would want to boast about that?
View original
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Andrew M Bedell said:
One thing I have noticed this series is that Roger and Abbi seem to be very underused. I notice in the cast list in the Radio Times for next week neither they, nor Susan are in episode.
This will be two Zoe Wannamaker has been absent from. Is she busy with othwer things? I do recall one series that Robert Linsey missed a couple of episodes too.
Last nights episode I feel was the best of the series so far, but I still think it's a weaker series than previous ones.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jolanta Zofia Nowak said:
I'm sorry but I've never been able to warm to 'My Family'.
For me it's always been a bit too predictable and formulaic, following over deferentially in the footsteps of other 'family' sitcoms.
I preferred 'Butterflies' and even 'Bread' or TDUDP.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Dave said:
I stopped watching it half way through. It also stole the plot from a Season 11 episode of Frasier ... and a Series 2 episode of My Family itself ("Death and Ben Take a Holiday").
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Quote: Dave @ May 11 2008, 3:29 AM BSTI stopped watching it half way through. It also stole the plot from a Season 11 episode of Frasier ... and a Series 2 episode of My Family itself ("Death and Ben Take a Holiday").
View original
I don't think you can technically steal from yourself
... I know what you mean though. There seems to be quite a bit of recycling going on in this show now. But then that's perhaps expected, any sitcom heading towards the 100 episode mark must be running out of things to do?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jake How said:
Quote: Andrew M Bedell @ May 3 2008, 9:59 AM BSTOne thing I have noticed this series is that Roger and Abbi seem to be very underused. I notice in the cast list in the Radio Times for next week neither they, nor Susan are in episode.
This will be two Zoe Wannamaker has been absent from. Is she busy with othwer things? I do recall one series that Robert Linsey missed a couple of episodes too.
Last nights episode I feel was the best of the series so far, but I still think it's a weaker series than previous ones.
View original
I think she was do a different project when fliming my family.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, catskillz said:
I had to laugh, watching tonight's repeated episode, when Ben insulted Mr. Casey, about his age. He said something about a bottle of whiskey being 18 years old, then turned to Mr Casey, and said something like, "Just think, you were only seventy, when this was first poured in here". The reason I found it so funny? I went to IMDB.com to check the age of the actor playing Mr. Casey, and it turns out he's only 2 years older than Robert Lindsey!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
I watched it tonight. I don't generally dislike the programme but didn't find myself breaking into a smile once.
It was all so lame and predictable in an ITV seventies (1970s) way.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Did you seriously laugh AFTER checking their ages on IMDb? o_O
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Spagett said:
I agree with Chapman apart from the fact that I do generally dislike this sitcom. I too thought this rubbish type of "comedy" belonged in the seventies and early eighties but apparantly not.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Well if my family is being compared to the 70's and 80's comedies then great as that was the best era of british comedy.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Spagett said:
Just as me saying My Family is tat is an opinion so too is you saying the best era of British Comedy is the seventies.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
I'm comparing it to the worst of the 70s.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
I'm with Richard here.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, catskillz said:
Quote: Aaron @ May 11 2008, 9:41 PM BSTDid you seriously laugh AFTER checking their ages on IMDb? o_O
View original
Yes. I know I'm a sad twat for checking the info, but I did have my laptop on my knee at the time. I knew Ben was only joking, implying that he thought Mr. Casey was 88, but he was still obviously meant to be a LOT older than Ben, which I knew was ridiculous.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Winterlight said:
It seems more like a mid 90's sitcom to me.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Honestly it's just a simple comedy, That I admit.
I think so many of you people want real complicated comedy and i'm just a simple soul who embraces simple comedy.
And to get to 8 series with a 9th on the way in this day and age of british television is pretty damn good.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
And for comedy loser geeks like me, the man who plays Mr Casey also played Marcus Green, Dorien's accountant husband, in Birds of a Feather.
Yay. Go me.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
I know I recognise him from somewhere.
Maybe that's where.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
IMDb says he was in Casanova, so you probably saw him last week. Or whenever it was you watched it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Ah!
That'll be it then.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Spagett said:
I suppose you need, no pun intended, a mild sitcom suitable for the whole family to watch.
I just think it's not at all funny with characters that aren't believable and plots that have been done a million times before.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Does it need to be believable then ?
No offence most of today's more what I like to call complicated comedies don't seem very believable to me.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
The IT Crowd is sooooo believable. What with the guy living in the baseme- Oh.
And what about The Might- Oh.
Believability isn't the be-all and end-all. I find the characters in My Family far more realistic than those in even Peep Show, for example.
The plots accusation is fair enough to an extent, but the genre's been around so long that, knowingly or not, ideas will undoubtedly get re-used.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Spagett said:
The Mighty Boosh isn't marketed as a conventional comedy. The moment it moves to being shown at 9 30 on a Friday Night then fair enough.
My Family is meant to be a comedy rooted in reality which makes their characters who aren't believable all the worse.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Yet again I just sit back and watch without going too much in depth about it.
That's when I know I should stop watching when that happens.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, JAXI said:
I have no experience with these messaging type sites so forgive me, but I am looking for the answer to something. I just watched the 2005 christmas special of my family, I spotted, in the scene when the donkey has been brought in (I think) a clown - unicyles past in the background from left to right, just at the base of the stairs. Both Roger and Ben are in the foreground, and so probably due to the fact that I have a raging temperature, the 'flu! I flicked over to +1 and watched the episode again! It was too quick to identify and I could not spot it in the credits either. I have convinced myself it was 'Kris Marshall' playing a flying Christmas visit. I did enjoy his character Nick and haven't really followed the series since. Please did anyone else spot the clown, am I hallucinating? Anyone know who it was? It's going to keep me awake at night!!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
How far into the episode was this? 90% of the scenes seem to have clowns in, and I've not spotted a donkey yet!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Hi JAXI. I think it unlikely that was Kris Marshall - he's not credited in the episode. My thinking is that if he had been in the studio that day I'm sure they'd have stuck him centre stage?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
The donkey was right at the very end if I remember correctly Aaron.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, JAXI said:
yes it was towards the end, it just happened, unremarked on by any of the cast, lasted less than one second I guess, I do not have recording facilities at the moment so could not slow it down in any way. I saw it both times I watched it so can't be losing my marbles!!! I hope!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Hmm, no, don't think it's Kris. The guy's 6 and a half foot or something ridiculous, and the clown there doesn't look nearly tall enough.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
I'm just watching a early episode on UK gold and Stupid Brian's in it.
I wish he had stayed around for other series.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Cheyenne said:
Hi fellow "My Family" fans!! I'm an American and watch this show every weekend. I don't watch Britcoms too often but this show is hilarious! I'm glad to be here and thanks for letting me join the forum. 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Great to have you aboard Cheyenne.
And you have good taste in comedy
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, garyd said:
Quote: Richard Wells @ May 14 2008, 7:36 PM BSTGreat to have you aboard Cheyenne.
And you have good taste in comedy
View original
And pepper.
Oh, hang on, that's cayenne!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Cheyenne @ May 14 2008, 7:32 PM BSTHi fellow "My Family" fans!! I'm an American and watch this show every weekend. I don't watch Britcoms too often but this show is hilarious! I'm glad to be here and thanks for letting me join the forum.
View original
Hello indeed, and welcome!
And Richard, yes, great character. I'd worry that they'd explored everything of him that they could though.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
Was he explored as a character then ?, I need to catch up on some old episodes.
I just thought he said stupid things all the time lol.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yeah. That's pretty much all there was to him!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Quote: Richard Wells @ May 14 2008, 6:29 PM BSTI'm just watching a early episode on UK gold and Stupid Brian's in it.
I wish he had stayed around for other series.
View original
I too thought he was a great character.
Wish he'd come back. Of course, Stupid Brian was played by Kevin Bishop - now better known for Star Stories and soon to hit the big time with his own Channel 4 series - so I guess that's unlikely.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Oh, I don't remember him being in My Family at all.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
He was Janey's boyfriend. On sporadically through the second or third series, IIRC.
Janey's boyfriend ... Bastard.
Anyway. He also played Jim Hawkins in Muppet Treasure Island.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Andrew M Bedell said:
So Abbi has always wanted to serve God? Funny she never mentioned it before!!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick said:
Last night's episode was the first that I'd seen for ages and it was unbelievably bad. I hope that one of the two main actors decides to quit the show soon to put it out of its misery.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Andrew M Bedell said:
Quote: Nick @ May 24 2008, 11:09 AM BSTLast night's episode was the first that I'd seen for ages and it was unbelievably bad. I hope that one of the two main actors decides to quit the show soon to put it out of its misery.
View original
And that was the best episode of the series.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
The way it ended, it looks like Abi won't be returning next series then?
I tell you what, My Family trying to add a bit of pathos and drama really doesn't work does it, but I can see they must have been a bit stuck for a storyline - somehow needing to explain how Roger and Abi had split, in a way that allowed for Roger to continue.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Tim Walker said:
Never claimed to have been a fan of My Family, but do fans think it's running out of steam now? Successful long-running sitcoms tend to last because we care enough about the characters to want to know how their lives change over the years. Does My Family have characters sufficiently likeable and interesting that anybody cares how they develop, or what happens to them anymore? If not, should MF call it a day?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Andrew M Bedell said:
Yea, i think perhaps it has come to the end of the road.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Dave said:
So Abbi's left and Roger's staying. I am glad. Now, about getting rid of Alfie ...
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Tim Walker @ May 24 2008, 3:35 PM BSTNever claimed to have been a fan of My Family, but do fans think it's running out of steam now? Successful long-running sitcoms tend to last because we care enough about the characters to want to know how their lives change over the years. Does My Family have characters sufficiently likeable and interesting that anybody cares how they develop, or what happens to them anymore? If not, should MF call it a day?
View original
I think there's still quite a bit of room for the show. I'd like to see it for another couple of series' at least. But they do DESPERATELY need to get rid of Alfie. There is NOTHING redeeming about him or his character at all. He's just annoying, dull, and doesn't fit in with anything else about the show at all.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Alan C said:
Quote: Aaron @ May 24 2008, 5:21 PM BSTI think there's still quite a bit of room for the show. I'd like to see it for another couple of series' at least.
View original
I wouid love to see this programme end and be replaced by a cutting edge sitcom such as Spoons
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, GusF said:
Except for the episode involving the bank robbery with Pauline Quirk, I've been very disappointed by this series. All the spark seems to be the gone. Alfie was the best character in it other than Nick and now he's gone. I know there's another series on the way but, honestly, I think they should've finished it when it was still the funniest thing in the BBC's arsenal. Unfortunately, those days are long over.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: GusF @ May 28 2008, 1:30 AM BSTAlfie was the best character in it other than Nick and now he's gone.
View original
You actually are a mental.
(He's not gone though, don't worry.)
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, GusF said:
Quote: Aaron @ May 28 2008, 1:38 AM BSTYou actually are a mental.
View original
Why do people keep saying that to me?
My finely honed deductive reasoning skills tell me that you don't agree. Am I correct?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yep; Alfie is quite possibly the worst character in any British sitcom this decade!
But hey, each to their own!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, GusF said:
Quote: Aaron @ May 28 2008, 1:53 AM BSTYep; Alfie is quite possibly the worst character in any British sitcom this decade!
View original
Oh, I suppose it's because he's Welsh, isn't it?!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
I'm told he smells of coal and sheep.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, GusF said:
Quote: Aaron @ May 28 2008, 1:55 AM BSTI'm told he smells of coal and sheep.
View original
Yeah, that's a safe bet.
(Apologies to all Welsh users!)
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Dave said:
The showrunners should listen to the viewers and as we all want them to get rid of Alfie, they should do it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
I feel better about you not liking Russell Brand's acting now.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Greyhounds2 said:
New to this forum,love My Family but regret that "Nick" has moved on.A role model for all of us who see life as a rehearsal.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Hehe, nice summary of him there! Welcome to the site.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rockabilly said:
Never in the remotest bit funny.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jake How said:
I never watched one episode of this series which is a shame as I heard it was good.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Richard Wells said:
My Family is good.
It's not a complicated sitcom and I fear most people today like complicated sitcoms.
It's just simple easy viewing.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rockabilly said:
simple is right.
Forrest Gump simple.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, NickTheDon said:
Quote: GusF @ May 28 2008, 1:30 AM BSTExcept for the episode involving the bank robbery with Pauline Quirk, I've been very disappointed by this series. All the spark seems to be the gone. Alfie was the best character in it other than Nick and now he's gone. I know there's another series on the way but, honestly, I think they should've finished it when it was still the funniest thing in the BBC's arsenal. Unfortunately, those days are long over.
View original
That was the only episode I saw of the current series and I thought it was terrible. I don't know how it gets so many viewers. I used to love it but sadly I stopped finding it funny a long time ago.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Shepka said:
Saw the episode where Abi becomes a nun, from series 8? Thought it actually wasn't that bad. Although many situations were set up like the old woman who was the nun and I thought, something VERY funny is going to happen here and it didn't. I didn't like the fact that the huge set ups never paid off, although I thought it was really funny when Roger wrecked the restaurant and I think it would have been funnier for him to start trashing the church when they are all sitting at the end.
Does anyone know when series 9 is to be broadcast in Scotland? Please, any information anyone finds out, let me know.
My suggestions for series 10, although they are very unlikely - Get rid of Abi, Roger, Alfie and tell Kris Marshall the show has gone downhill and plead him to come back for one last series for old times sake, get the writers from the first and second series back and think up some damn good plots. Have an old school cast reunion for one final hurrah and when you set up a situation, please let there be a decent pay-off and don't go for the lazy option.
On a side note, I was saddened to hear Kris had been in a car crash and Gabriel had been arrested for possessing drugs.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Only 8 series' have been produced to date. The one you describe, with Abi joining the sisterhood, is the last.
Whether a ninth series will be made is a matter of debate.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Shepka said:
I'm lead to believe on of the episodes of series 9 is being filmed tomorrow..and I thought series 9 had been filming since April, I'm so sorry that I can't remember where I read this!!
Also I read this on IMDB when someone asked if Abi had genuinely left..
"Went to a recording of series 9 a couple of weeks ago and she has definately left, they havent replaced her with anyone."
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yes, it's a little unclear what's happening at the moment. I've seen different numbers attributed to the episodes, and different "new" series labels as well. I was led to believe that the currently filming episodes were a ninth run, but then have seen suggestion that they're just more of S8.
Either way, whatever further episodes will be broadcast in Scotland at the same time they're broadcast in England.
Well, depending on what BBC Scotland decide anyway.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Shepka said:
Okay, thanks!! Robert Lindsay's website did say that there was a series 9 but then again I looked back through the news updates and there is a mention of series 7 and not 8 and then 9 - so its probably a misprint.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
The new set of episodes will be a 9th series - they're being filmed at the moment and will be broadcast in the autumn (unless schedules change).
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Shepka said:
Thanks Mark!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Valerie said:
Hey everyone
It's nice to join your company
I've watched all the episodes but one: 2007 Christmas Special
Do you know where I could download it from?
I'll be eternally grateful 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charly said:
Is this show still running? I thought it finished ages ago! I really need to keep up.
PS: 'Ello Valerie!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
No Charly, there was a new series only about a month ago, and more currently in production.
Valerie, check your inbox.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Valerie said:
Quote: Aaron @ July 9 2008, 12:23 AM BSTNo Charly, there was a new series only about a month ago, and more currently in production.
Valerie, check your inbox.
View original
Thanks
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Kitty!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Valerie said:
Quote: Aaron @ July 11 2008, 9:13 PM BSTKitty!
View original
Kitty meets Tom cat watching My Family
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: Valerie @ July 13 2008, 9:34 PM BSTKitty meets Tom cat watching My Family
View original
Your poor pussy Valerie. I do like it though.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww!
So cute!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charly said:
Is it true that the actor who plays Micheal was arrested?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nil Putters said:
Yeah, possession of some drug I think.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charly said:
Quote: Nil Putters @ July 29 2008, 6:17 PM BSTYeah, possession of some drug I think.
View original
Is he going to court, or are the police turning a blind eye?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nil Putters said:
Think he probably got a slap on the wrist. But not sure.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Shepka said:
So am I right in thinking that Alfie and Abi are now out the series and we are basically just left with the Series 5 cast minus Abi? In other words, Ben, Susan, Michael, Janey and Roger? They should try and get out of the house set more and explore different plot lines, I'm sure the show isn't done yet. I just wish they'd have struck some sort of a deal with Kris Marshall to appear once per series or only in Christmas episodes because in the one series 5 episode he appeared in it was fantastic, you just knew Ben was gonna go to the window and Nick would be there. In some episodes of the later series you can just see where Nick would fit in and make it really funny, he was the best part of My Family.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, frostyboy [Ex-Member] said:
Quote: Charly @ July 29 2008, 5:49 PM BSTIs it true that the actor who plays Micheal was arrested?
View original
The rozzers caught him and zooo fornicating in public.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, thelegendary stardustcowboy said:
They should arrest the writers .