Birds of a Feather

If you are after a comedy that actually makes you laugh out loud, Birds of a Feather is available in the US on YouTube TV and Hoopla, and in the UK on Sky Go right now. Every one of its 12 seasons holds up. A 6/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Pauline Quirke's performance alone is worth the time investment. Available now on YouTube TV — press play and find out why people keep recommending it.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, Birds of a Feather is worth clearing space for. The jokes in Birds of a Feather land because the characters underneath them are worth caring about. Birds of a Feather is a British sitcom that was broadcast on BBC One from 1989 until 1998 and on ITV from 2013. Starring Pauline Quirke, Linda Robson and Lesley Joseph, it was created by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, who also wrote some of the episodes along with many other writers. The first episode sees sisters Tracey Stubbs and Sharon Theodopolopodos brought together when their husbands are sent to prison for armed robbery. Pauline Quirke and Linda Robson lead a cast that never overplays a joke. 12 seasons (1989–2016) gave the story room most shows never get. What keeps Birds of a Feather from feeling disposable is a cast that clearly understands the material better than the format usually demands. It knows exactly what it is, and does not try to be anything else.

If you need a comedy that actually makes you laugh, Birds of a Feather is a strong candidate. The tonal similarities to The Andy Griffith Show are real, though Birds of a Feather carves out its own identity quickly. 12 seasons in, there is no shortage of material once you get started. Pauline Quirke's comic timing carries it through its weaker moments. The kind of comedy you recommend to someone who claims they do not watch much.

Birds of a Feather wrapped up in 2016, created by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran — and 12 seasons are available to watch from start to finish. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.