Quick Summary
SKETCHES INCLUDE A VERY BAD SPY, TV'S LEAST EXCITING REALITY SHOW EVER AND SOME PURITANS TRYING TO OUT-PURITAN EACH OTHER - a brilliant British TV sketch comedy starring David Mitchell and Robert Webb that delivers razor‑sharp satire and absurdist fun, perfect for UK viewers seeking entertainment at a glance. This Channel 4 HD programme offers a quick overview of the series’ standout episode, packed with programme highlights that showcase the best of UK television humour.
About This Program
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW SKETCHES INCLUDE A VERY BAD SPY, TV’S LEAST EXCITING REALITY SHOW EVER AND SOME PURITANS TRYING TO OUT‑PURITAN EACH OTHER is the latest sketch comedy series starring the beloved duo David Mitchell and Robert Webb. Conceived as a fresh offering for British TV, the programme blends absurdist humour with a satirical look at contemporary culture, delivering a series of self‑contained episodes that each run just under half an hour. UK viewers will recognise the sharp wit that Mitchell and Webb have honed over years of television, now repackaged in a bold, experimental format that promises full details of each sketch while maintaining the spontaneity of a live comedy club. WHAT TO EXPECT Each episode is a tightly edited montage of three recurring segments: a hopelessly incompetent spy whose missions are thwarted by his own blunders, a deliberately drab reality‑show parody that lampoons the banality of modern entertainment, and a competitive showdown between puritanical characters who strive to out‑puritan one another in ever more ludicrous moral tests. The writing is razor‑sharp, the pacing relentless, and the visual style deliberately low‑key, reinforcing the series’ premise of “least exciting” television while delivering relentless laughs. The series also includes occasional cameo appearances from other UK television stars, adding layers of intertextual humour for the discerning viewer. KEY FEATURES - STAR POWER: David Mitchell and Robert Webb bring their acclaimed chemistry and impeccable timing, ensuring each sketch lands with precision. - UNIQUE CONCEPT: The programme’s premise of celebrating the unglamorous and the mundane sets it apart from conventional sketch shows, offering a fresh angle on British comedy. - HIGH‑QUALITY PRODUCTION: Shot on location with a modest but effective set design, the series benefits from a crisp visual aesthetic that enhances the deadpan humour. - VARIETY OF TONES: While primarily a comedy, the sketches occasionally dip into dark satire, providing depth that appeals to fans of both light‑hearted entertainment and more thoughtful British TV commentary. WHY WATCH For UK viewers who crave intelligent, boundary‑pushing comedy, this series delivers an in‑depth review of modern media absurdities wrapped in a format that feels both familiar and daring. It offers a comprehensive guide to the quirks of contemporary culture, making it a must‑watch for anyone who enjoys a blend of wit, satire, and the occasional poignant moment. The programme’s clever subversion of genre tropes makes it a standout addition to any entertainment lineup, promising both instant gratification and repeat‑viewing value for those who appreciate layered British humour. REFERENCE Channel 4 HD PROGRAMMING CONTEXT Although the series is produced independently, its placement within the Channel 4 HD programming schedule underscores the broadcaster’s commitment to diverse, high‑quality entertainment. Positioned after the flagship comedy slot on Thursday evenings, it complements existing drama and documentary offerings, providing a balanced palate for UK television audiences. This strategic scheduling ensures that the programme reaches a broad spectrum of viewers, from casual fans of sketch comedy to dedicated followers of British TV’s most inventive series.
Mitchell and Webb Are Not Helping broadcasts on 4seven at 1:15am, Saturday, 20 September 2025. (Subtitles, repeat)