I really enjoy watching UK shows, and US shows as well. I got sucked into the UK version of Being Human, but couldn’t sit through the US version. (Both are on Netflix, if you’re interested.) Anyway, when I saw this post by guest Elly, I was excited to publish it on my blog. Happy reading, everyone!

It has recently been revealed that US network Fox has picked up the much loved UK sitcom Gavin and Stacey. The long-distance love story of Essex boy Gavin and valley girl Stacey enthralled its British audience, but will it translate to the American small screen?

When British TV shows are adapted for the American audience, it seems to go one of two ways: brilliantly right or horribly wrong. These famous examples prove the point.

Got it right: The Office

Ricky Gervais’ sitcom based in a Slough office block seemed so distinctly English that the idea of an American adaptation was considered sacrilegious. 10 years later the US version of The Office is into its ninth season and scores huge ratings both in the US and in the UK. Sticking loosely to the same format as the British version, The Office has developed its own unique characters and is a real joy to watch. Steve Carrell is a real treat to watch as manager Michael Scott of Dunder Mifflin Paper Company.

Got it wrong: The IT Crowd

Despite using the same script as the UK version and one of the same actors, the American version of this particular workplace comedy didn’t make the cut. In fact, it didn’t even make it onto television screens – it was axed after the pilot (which you can still watch online).

Got it right: Shameless

A comedy following the trials and tribulations of the rough and ready Gallagher family from Manchester, it’s easy to see why there was scepticism over whether this could be transformed into a hit American show. But with veteran actors William H. Macy and Joan Cusack on board, the series has been getting positive reviews on both sides of the Atlantic. Although the themes and tones of the British show are retained, the writing is intrinsically American.

Got it wrong: The Inbetweeners

It’s almost ironic that an American adaptation of a British TV show so similar to American teen comedies should fall flat. Relying heavily on the British script left little room for unique character development and some of the funniest scenes got lost in translation. Despite poor reviews, MTV has picked it up for a second season; let’s hope they learn from their mistakes and capture the essence of their adolescent awkwardness.

If you’re not familiar with any of these home-grown hits, there are some great TVs on finance now available, meaning you can catch up on the comedy without laughing at your bank balance.

This is a guest post by Elly, who has a passion for writing about Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle across the world. She also tweets regularly on the latest updates in the fashion and retail industry, which can be found here (@Russell_Elly).

photo credit: doobybrain via photopin cc