History of "Are You Being Served"
Creation and Original Run
"Are You Being Served" was created by Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft, two prolific figures in British television comedy. The show first aired on BBC One on March 8, 1972, and ran for a total of ten series, concluding on April 1, 1985. The series captured the essence of British society during the 1970s and 1980s, showcasing the changing dynamics of retail and gender roles.
The original concept was inspired by Lloyd and Croft's experiences in department stores, leading them to create a setting that was both relatable and ripe for comedic situations. The show quickly gained popularity due to its witty writing, memorable catchphrases, and the chemistry between its cast members.
Spin-offs and Revivals
The success of "Are You Being Served" led to several spin-offs and revivals. In 1991, a sequel titled "Are You Being Served? Again!" aired, featuring many of the original cast members returning to their roles. This sequel continued the storylines of the beloved characters and introduced new ones, allowing fans to reconnect with their favorite personalities.
In 2016, a stage adaptation of the show was produced, showcasing the enduring popularity of the series. The revival efforts, including stage performances and various reruns on television, have kept the spirit of "Are You Being Served" alive for new generations to enjoy.
Main Characters
One of the reasons for the show's enduring appeal is its ensemble cast, which includes a range of colorful and eccentric characters. Here are some of the most notable:
- Mr. Humphries (John Inman): The flamboyant and witty sales assistant known for his catchphrase, "I'm free!" Mr. Humphries is a fan favorite, often finding himself in awkward situations due to his playful demeanor and flirtatious personality.
- Mrs. Slocombe (Mollie Sugden): The head of the ladies' department, Mrs. Slocombe is characterized by her colorful hair and obsession with her cat, Tiddles. Her humorous anecdotes about her personal life and her rivalry with other staff members add to the show's comedic elements.
- Mr. Grainger (Arthur English): The elderly and somewhat grumpy menswear assistant, Mr. Grainger often serves as the voice of reason amidst the chaos of the department store. His interactions with younger staff members provide a humorous generational contrast.
- Miss Brahms (Wendy Richard): The young sales assistant in the ladies' department, Miss Brahms is known for her flirtatious banter, particularly with Mr. Humphries. Her character reflects the changing roles of women in the workplace during the show's era.
- Mr. Lucas (Trevor Bannister): A young, ambitious sales assistant who often tries to win the favor of female customers and staff. Mr. Lucas's antics provide additional comedic tension in the workplace.
- Mr. Rumbold (Nicholas Smith): The somewhat bumbling department manager, Mr. Rumbold often finds himself trying to maintain order in the chaotic environment of Grace Brothers. His interactions with the staff add to the humorous dynamics of the show.
Notable Episodes
"Are You Being Served" features numerous memorable episodes that showcase the show's unique humor and character dynamics. Here are a few standout episodes:
1. "The Hotel Inspectors" (Series 2, Episode 6): In this episode, the staff at Grace Brothers prepare for the arrival of hotel inspectors. Chaos ensues as they try to impress the inspectors while dealing with their own quirks and mishaps.
2. "The Lift" (Series 4, Episode 5): The characters become trapped in a lift, leading to a series of comedic misunderstandings and revelations. The confined space amplifies their personalities, making for a hilarious episode.
3. "Goodbye, Mr. Grainger" (Series 7, Episode 2): This poignant episode centers around Mr. Grainger's retirement, providing both comedic moments and heartfelt farewells. The episode highlights the show's ability to blend humor with genuine emotion.
4. "The Old Age Pensioners" (Series 10, Episode 1): In this episode, the staff must cater to elderly customers, leading to a series of humorous situations that explore age-related stereotypes and misunderstandings.
5. "The Store's a Stage" (Series 10, Episode 7): The staff puts on a theatrical performance to impress a visiting dignitary, resulting in a series of comedic mishaps as they navigate their dual roles as performers and sales staff.
Cultural Significance
The impact of "Are You Being Served" extends beyond its comedic value. The show reflects the societal changes occurring in Britain during the 1970s and 1980s, including shifts in gender roles, class dynamics, and the evolving retail industry.
- Gender Roles: The series challenges traditional gender roles, particularly through characters like Mr. Humphries and Miss Brahms. Their interactions and evolving identities showcase the complexities of gender in the workplace.
- Class Dynamics: The show also explores class distinctions, often highlighting the struggles of the working class while simultaneously poking fun at the upper classes. The characters' interactions with customers reflect the social hierarchy of the time.
- Workplace Comedy: "Are You Being Served" set a precedent for workplace comedies that followed. Its unique setting and character dynamics influenced later shows, such as "The Office" and "Parks and Recreation."
Conclusion
"Are You Being Served" remains a beloved sitcom that has stood the test of time. With its memorable characters, witty writing, and social commentary, the show has left an indelible mark on British television. Through its humor and heart, it continues to resonate with audiences, reminding us of the joys and absurdities of everyday life in a department store. Whether you are a long-time fan or newly discovering the series, "Are You Being Served" offers a delightful escape into the world of retail comedy, making it a timeless classic in the annals of television history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Are You Being Served?' about?
'Are You Being Served?' is a British sitcom that aired from 1972 to 1985, set in a department store and centered around the comedic interactions of the staff who work there.
How many seasons are in the complete series of 'Are You Being Served?'
The complete series consists of 10 seasons, totaling 69 episodes.
Where can I watch the complete series of 'Are You Being Served?'?
The complete series can be found on various streaming platforms, including BritBox and Amazon Prime Video, as well as DVD collections.
Who are the main characters in 'Are You Being Served?'?
The main characters include Mr. Humphries, Mrs. Slocombe, Captain Peacock, and Mr. Grainger, each bringing their own unique humor to the show.
Is 'Are You Being Served?' still popular today?
'Are You Being Served?' remains popular due to its timeless humor and has a dedicated fan base, often being referenced in discussions about classic British sitcoms.
Did 'Are You Being Served?' have any spin-offs or specials?
Yes, 'Are You Being Served?' had a spin-off called 'Grace & Favour' and several Christmas specials after the original series ended.
What makes 'Are You Being Served?' a classic sitcom?
The show's clever writing, memorable characters, and its ability to tackle social issues with humor contribute to its status as a classic sitcom.
