Ghosts! BBC Three's Hilariously Haunting Comedy Series Will Have You Dying of Laughter!

The television landscape is littered with sitcoms, many relying on tired tropes and predictable humor. However, every now and then a series emerges that feels fresh, original, and genuinely hilarious. Enter Ghosts, the critically acclaimed British comedy from BBC Three that premiered in 2019 but saw its popularity soar in 2021 thanks to streaming services. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill ghost story; it’s a witty and charming ensemble piece about a couple who inherit a crumbling country estate only to discover it’s inhabited by the ghosts of its previous residents.

The premise is simple yet ingenious. Alison Cooper (Charlotte Ritchie) and Mike Cooper (Kiell Smith-Bynoe) are an ambitious young couple who buy Button House, a picturesque but dilapidated mansion in the hopes of turning it into a bed and breakfast. Their dreams are quickly dashed when they encounter the ghostly inhabitants, a motley crew of historical figures spanning centuries: from a flamboyant Elizabethan poet to a grumpy caveman, a clueless plague victim, and a 19th-century dandy with an obsession for fashion.

What sets Ghosts apart is its deft blend of humor and heart. The show effortlessly navigates between laugh-out-loud gags and genuinely touching moments as the living and the dead learn to coexist. Alison, who can see and interact with the ghosts, becomes their unlikely advocate, trying to help them fulfill their unfinished business while dealing with the logistical nightmare of renovating a haunted house. Mike, on the other hand, remains blissfully unaware of the spectral presence, creating hilarious misunderstandings and adding another layer of comedic absurdity to the situation.

The cast is phenomenal, delivering stellar performances that bring these eccentric characters to life. Ritchie’s portrayal of Alison perfectly balances her exasperation with the ghosts’ antics with a genuine empathy for their plight. Smith-Bynoe shines as Mike, the perpetually bewildered but lovable husband whose cluelessness adds a delightful dose of slapstick humor. The supporting cast is equally impressive, each actor injecting their ghostly characters with distinct personalities and comedic timing:

The show’s humor is incredibly diverse, ranging from witty banter and observational comedy to slapstick and absurdist scenarios. One moment you’ll be chuckling at the ghosts’ competitive nature (especially during their spirited game nights) and the next you’ll be touched by Alison’s attempts to help them find peace.

Beyond its comedic brilliance, Ghosts also explores deeper themes of belonging, loss, and second chances. The ghosts are all trapped in their own way, yearning for connection and resolution. Through their interactions with Alison and Mike, they begin to confront their past traumas and move towards acceptance.

The show’s clever writing and masterful direction ensure that every episode is a delight. From the charming countryside setting to the beautifully crafted ghostly transformations, Ghosts is a visual treat. But it’s ultimately the characters, both living and dead, who make this series so irresistible. Their quirks, their flaws, and their underlying humanity resonate deeply with viewers, creating an unforgettable comedic experience that will leave you wanting more.

So if you’re looking for a show that’s funny, heartwarming, and genuinely original, then “Ghosts” is definitely worth adding to your watchlist. Be prepared for plenty of laughs, unexpected twists, and a cast of characters you’ll grow to love – even the ghostly ones!