Living With Madeley

Gavin and Stacey v I'm Alan Partridge Get ready for a other comedy showdown in the last quarter-final of our Sitcom World Cup where we pit the heartwarming quips of "Gavin and Stacey" against the cringe-inducing gaffes of "I'm Alan Partridge". From the endearing oddities of Pam's storytelling to the awkward brilliance of Alan Partridge's bar encounters, we've got a delightful analysis that adds a whole new layer to your favorite sitcom scenes. Hold onto your seats – or rather, your funny bones – as we explore the rich tapestry of relationships and identity crises that make "Gavin and Stacey" a modern classic. And if you've ever wondered how a TV episode could transform into a stage play, our creative brainstorming might just inspire your next thea re outing. Picture Pete and Dawn's marriage woes under the bright lights, or Smithy's emotional gift exchanges played out in front of a live audience – it's sitcom magic reimagined! We then look at one of the longest running comedy characters of all time in Alan Partridge. Hear how Alan deals with a group of irate farmers and cringe at his desperation to fit in with 90's lads culture . As we wrap up this comedic journey, we look ahead to the semi-finals and invite you to join the banter. Whether you're rooting for the down-to-earth charm of "Gavin and Stacey" or the awkward hilarity of "I'm Alan Partridge," we're eager to hear your thoughts. Catch us on Twitter at livingwithmade1 or drop us an email at livingwithmadely@outlook.com – because when it comes to British sitcoms, we're all in this laugh riot together!

The Office v Extras Are you ready to referee the ultimate sitcom showdown between "The Office" and "Extras"? We've got the play-by-play as these two comedic juggernauts, both brainchildren of Stephen Merchant and Ricky Gervais, go head to head in our Sitcom World Cup quarterfinal. Witness the clash of cringe and nuance as we dissect "The Office's" unforgettable 'The Merger' episode as we catch the subtleties of character development, from Tim's career choices to David Brent's desperate quest for acceptance. We also raise a toast to Les Dennis and his raw depiction of an actor's life in "Extras." His willingness to bear his soul in a vulnerable, down-on-his-luck portrayal brings a unique authenticity that's both heartbreaking and side-splitting. As we review Les's standout moments and the drama behind his Panto show, we can't help but marvel at the blend of real-life parallels and fictional hilarity. Join us for this comedic deep dive and cast your vote – will it be "The Office" or "Extras" progressing to the semi final of our Sitcom World Cup?

Father Ted v Phoenix Nights Prepare to cast your votes in the ultimate comedic showdown! It's Leroy and Andreas here, and we've got something special for you—a Sitcom World Cup Special pitting the hilarity of 'Father Ted' against the club-running escapades of 'Phoenix Nights.' Who will snag the crown in this comedic clash of the titans? Your laughs and votes decide! Join us for a nostalgia-packed trip down memory lane, where we dissect classic scenes, chuckle over episodes that have us in stitches, and engage in a spirited debate over the sitcoms that have shaped our sense of humor. This episode is a comedic goldmine, analyzing the antics of the naive Dougal from 'Father Ted' and the ingenious Brian Potter from 'Phoenix Nights.' . We'll weigh the irreplaceable charm of Dermot Morgan's portrayal against Peter Kay's old-school humor, reveling in the quirky character dynamics that have made these shows timeless treasures of comedy. So, tune in, weigh in, and let's see who advances in the Sitcom World Cup! Will it be the priestly misadventures on Craggy Island, or the nightclub chuckles in the North of England? You decide!

The Thick Of It v Peep Show Will 'The Thick of It' outmanoeuvre 'Peep Show' in a clash of comedic titans? The heat is on in the quarterfinals of our World Cup Sitcom Cup, Join us as we dissect the latest matchups that have left some fan favourites in the dust. Feel the pulse of the competition as we thank the ever-growing legions of listeners who've cast their decisive votes. Get our exclusive take on the dark horse victories and surprising support for some of the small screen's biggest hits. We'll also give you a sneak peek at the titanic tussles still to come, including the highly anticipated face-off between Phoenix Knights and Father Ted, and the Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant derby. So get ready, and prepare for an episode that's as packed with laughs and insights as the sitcoms we're celebrating.

The Office V The IT Crowd and I'm Alan Partridge v The Inbetweeners Prepare to cast your votes, sitcom lovers! Leeroy and Anderton are here for a sensational showdown in the Sitcom World Cup Round of 16. Imagine the tension as "The Office" goes head-to-head with "The IT Crowd" in a battle for sitcom supremacy. We're dissecting theme tunes, comedic styles, and the cultural footprints these shows have left behind. With "I'm Alan Partridge" and"The Inbetweeners," we laugh over Mini Metro mishaps and cringe at teenage blunders, celebrating the relatable humour that has us quoting these shows in our everyday lives. Ever wondered how "The Office" became a cultural phenomenon or why "The IT Crowd" has you chuckling at ludicrous IT mishaps? We're breaking it all down, character by quirky character. Revel in the iconic scenes from Tim's knowing glances to Moss's foray into football banter. And we're not just chuckling over past episodes; we're also gearing up for an explosive quarterfinals. The anticipation is palpable as we tease out what's to come, and remember, your laughter and votes are what propel these sitcoms to glory! As we wrap up this laugh-packed episode, Leeroy's Turkish escapades loom on the horizon, leaving Anderton steering the ship solo. But fear not, upon Leroy's return, we're plunging into the heart of the Sitcom World Cup quarterfinals. Expect dissections of iconic episodes and our tongue-in-cheek suggestions for making these classics even funnier. Your input is crucial, and your votes are the driving force behind this comedic conquest. The next stage promises more giggles and nostalgic charm as we eagerly await which sitcoms will advance. Join us, won't you? Your favorite shows are counting on your votes!

Extras v Darkplace and Toast Of London v Gavin and Stacey. Prepare to get your sides splitting with Andrew and Liam as we tackle the heavyweights of British sitcoms in an episode that's anything but ordinary. This isn't just a rundown of shows; it's a comedic clash of the titans where 'Extras' meets 'Garth Marenghi's Darkplace', and 'Toast of London' throws down the gauntlet to 'Gavin and Stacey'. From Ricky Gervais navigating the star-studded waters of showbiz to Stephen Toast's delightfully disastrous encounters, we're serving up a feast of laughs with a side of nostalgia. And don't miss our take on the 'Gavin and Stacey' Christmas cliffhanger that left us all begging for more. Ever wondered what happens when sitcom characters feel like they've walked straight out of your life and onto the screen? We've got you covered with a look-back at 'Gavin and Stacey's most relatable scenes.. We also dissect the enigma of James Corden's fluctuating popularity and the genuine charm that had us rooting for the quirky ensemble from Barry Island. Plus, for those who crave a bit of the extraordinary, we celebrate the eccentric genius of 'Garth Marenghi's Darkplace' and the zany brilliance of Matt Berry's gym-obsessed Dr. Lucien Sanchez. Join us as we step into the sitcom arena, armed with insights, laughter, and a touch of the unexpected. From the surreal satire of 'Toast of London' to the heartwarming moments nestled within 'Gavin and Stacey', we're dishing out a full course of British comedy greatness. So, plug in and let's raise a toast to the sitcoms that have not only made us laugh but have woven themselves into the very fabric of our comedic tastes. It's an episode you won't want to miss – unless, of course, you'd rather watch paint dry (which, coincidentally, might just be one of Toast's less bizarre gigs).

Peep Show v Max And Paddy's Road To Nowhere and Friday Night Dinner v Phoenix Nights. Step right up to the comedic clash of the century as we throw the sitcom gauntlet in this side-splitting episode of the Sitcom World Cup. Prepare to be swept up in a whirlwind of laughter and nostalgia as we pit the quirky flatmates of Peep Show against those whimsical wanderers, Max and Paddy. We'll take you on a journey through the theme tunes that defined these shows, dissect the dynamic between characters that kept us coming back for more, and even share a few personal anecdotes that might just resonate with your own friendship follies. Strap in for a roller coaster of ridiculousness as we recount Peep Show's most absurdly hilarious moments, including the infamous urination debacle that still has us in stitches. But the humor doesn't end there; we reminisce about the retro charm of Max and Paddy's Road to Nowhere, and how Peter Kay's transformative portrayal of Max became a stroke of comedic genius. Between fits of giggles, we'll also cast a critical eye over other Brit-com greats like the Goodman family's shenanigans in Friday Night Dinner, and the darkly humorous Northern charm of Phoenix Nights. Tune in, chortle, reminisce, and raise your voice as we march on to crown the champion of our Sitcom World Cup. It's all to play for, and your favorite shows are counting on your support. Who will emerge victorious? Stay with us to find out!

The Thick Of It v The Royle Family and Father Ted v Early Doors. Prepare for a comedic clash of titans as we embark on our liveliest debate yet, searching for the ultimate champion of UK sitcoms from the past thirty years. We're switching up our regular stroll down memory lane to stir the pot of British humour, analysing the heavyweights that have made it to the second round of our face-off. From the biting political satire of 'The Thick of It' to the homely charm of 'The Royle Family', and the cultural phenomenon that is 'Father Ted', we're peeling back the layers of what makes these shows tickle our collective funny bones. We're diving headfirst into the subtle genius of 'The Thick of It', examining how its razor-sharp wit cuts deeper in today's political quagmire. We pay homage to the everyday poignancy of 'The Royal Family', whose absence of a laugh track revolutionized the sitcom landscape. Plus, we grapple with 'Father Ted's' identity crisis—is it British or Irish? It's a question that's sparked more debates than the show's countless laughs. And let's not forget the understated brilliance of 'Early Doors' - a gem that deserves its moment in the spotlight. We're unpacking the quirks, the quotable lines, and the characters who feel like old friends, all while savouring the unique flavours of British comedy. It's not just about the laughs though. We're discussing more than just what tickles us; it's about the cultural impact and the lasting impressions these shows have left on us. Will 'Early Doors' get another shout at the title of best sitcom, or will 'Father Ted' charm its way to victory with its surreal humour? We're gearing up for an episode that's not just a trip down memory lane, but a celebration of the rich tapestry that is British sitcoms. So, pull up a chair, pour a cuppa, and join us on Living with Madeley for this episode that's as cosy and warming as a night in with your favourite show.

Suit up for a comedic clash of titans as Liam and Andrew orchestrate a World Cup-style battle to crown the best UK sitcom of the last 30 years. With 32 fan-favorite sitcoms, including the likes of "Phoenix Nights", "The Office" and "Peep Show," ready to go head-to-head, you the listeners will be the deciding jury. From discussing potential frontrunners to shining a spotlight on wildcards like "The Vicar Of Dibley" and "Ghosts," we're setting the stage for a series of showdowns that promise belly laughs and banter. Will underdogs topple the comedy giants? Your votes will write each chapter of this laugh-out-loud saga.

Ever found yourself sheepishly humming a tune you'd never admit to loving out loud? That's where Liam and Andrew step in, turning the volume up on those clandestine songs with our latest chat about the music tracks you secretly can't get enough of. Our beloved listeners have spoken, and we've curated a Spotify playlist that's a smorgasbord of those delectable guilty pleasures.

Have you ever caught yourself humming a tune you're too embarrassed to admit you love? That's where we find ourselves this episode, with the incomparable Andrew and Liam at your side, embracing the allure of those catchy tracks we label as guilty pleasures. In an amusing departure from our usual TV talk, we contemplate the songs that compel us to sing along, yet we might sheepishly skip when someone else grabs the aux cord. From the anthemic highs of football match favourites to the Europop earworms that refuse to be ignored, we dissect what makes these melodies cling to our conscience like musical bubble-gum. Wrapping up, we invite you to wear your musical heart on your sleeve as we share our own guilty pleasures and encourage you to send in yours for a chance to be featured in a future episode.

Embark on a tantalizing exploration of the unexplained with Andrew and Liam as we chase the shadows of history's most intriguing enigmas. Our sleuthing begins with the peculiar image of 'missing;' Joanna Lopez's image broadcast on a TV station—this unsolved snippet from 1989 serves as an appetizer for the feast of mysteries we tackle. From the icy silence of the Ural Mountains where the Dyatlov Pass incident took place, to the bizarre dancing plague of 1518, we dissect each event with a blend of scepticism and fascination that's sure to captivate your curiosity. As the melody of our investigation deepens, we delve into the haunting disappearances of troubled souls in the limelight—the mysterious vanishing of Richey Edwards of the Manic Street Preachers sends chills down our spines. With every theory proposed, the line between fact and fiction blurs, leaving us pondering the darkest corners of human existence and the echoes they leave behind. Whether it's a meticulously planned disappearance or a silent farewell, the stories we uncover are as compelling as they are tragic.

Pull up a chair and join us for a rollicking ride as we go through your comments on the 12 Days Of Madeley series. We'll again tackle the mystery of the 'millions of Jeffries' with the same gusto we used to belt out the Lurpack advert and finally sort out the cast of "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" We debate who could take on Bono's iconic Band Aid line with today's flair, while also owning up to some delightful Freudian slips. To cap things off, we'll mull over more of Hulk Hogan's curious claims and tease our upcoming episodes.

As the confetti settles on another rambunctious year in TV and pop culture, join Liam and Andrew for a heartfelt year-end roundup that's brimming with unforgettable moments. Who could've predicted Cristiano Ronaldo's leap to Saudi Arabia would intertwine so seamlessly with our personal yarns and brushes with celebrity? We wove through twelve months of highs and lows, from the cyber glitches plaguing Royal Mail to the nostalgic waves that 'You've Been Framed' sent off after thirty years of home-video hilarity. And let's not forget the royal scandals and rock legacies that had us tuning in with bated breath. Our trip down memory lane isn't all laughter and soap opera awards—though there's plenty of that too. We're serving up candid reflections on the state of the TV industry, the cultural impact of female musicians dominating the charts, and even our own misguided Twitter identities. With the indelible icons of our screens and the indie anthems that brought us to our feet, we parse through the year's most gripping narratives, including the Phil Schofield buzz and the heart-pounding tunes that made us stop and listen. As we bid adieu to a year chock-full of TV twists and turns, we send a colossal thank you to you—our listeners—for tuning in and sharing these moments with us. Whether it was the soap opera successes or the quirky indie concert recollections that caught your ear, we loved every second of this wild ride. Stick around for the surprises 2024 has up its sleeve, and don't hesitate to join the conversation on Twitter or email. Here's to a future bursting with more enthralling TV tales and the unforeseen gems of pop culture. Cheers to new beginnings and shared laughs!

Step back in time with us, Leroy and Andrew, as we uncork the memories of 1997—a year that danced to the tunes of the Spice Girls and mourned the loss of Princess Diana. Join our 'Twixmas' for a watch-along that promises not just an abundance of nostalgia, but an honest exploration of the cultural and political milestones that defined an era. Whether you're nursing a Magners or toasting with sparkling water, we're here to rekindle the embers of the late '90s with humour, warmth, and perhaps a few unexpected insights. Transport yourself to the year of Blair's ascension and the Good Friday Agreement through our musings on election night blunders, campaign songs, and the evolving spectacle of media and politics. Let's not forget the Hong Kong Handover and the peculiar charm of Channel 5—just some of the myriad topics we'll be chatting about. Peppered with personal anecdotes and light-hearted debates, our episode is your ticket to reliving the excitement and drama, as if you were right there with us, watching the year unfold on the BBC. As the night draws to a close, we'll pay tribute to the influential figures who left us, delve into the conspiracy theories still swirling around Princess Diana's tragic departure, and reflect on the cultural zeitgeist that seeped into every corner of 1997. You're invited to share the journey, chime in with your thoughts, and continue the conversation beyond this episode. So, from election thrills to royal spills, "Living with Madeley" is set to be a festive frolic through the annals of a truly momentous year.

Christmas Eve unfolds with a soothing nostalgia as we don our festive pyjamas and invite you into the wintery world of the 1982 short film, 'The Snowman'. Imagine the soft glow of holiday lights as we recount the cherished tale of James and his frosty friend, exploring the cultural significance and personal memories tied to Raymond Briggs' classic animation. Through laughter and a shared love for the season's magic, we meander down memory lane, reminiscing about our own snow day escapades inspired by James' adventures. With every snowball thrown and snowman built, our childhood selves come alive, just like James' snowy companion on the eve of Christmas. We discuss the whimsy and wonder captured in the silent storytelling of 'The Snowman'—a cozy bedtime narrative enriched with mischief, discovery, and an unforgettable midnight flight. As the episode draws to a close, we touch on the poignant message behind the fleeting existence of a snowman, reflecting on the artistry and emotional depth of Briggs' work, including the sequel 'The Snowman and The Snow Dog'. With a chuckle, we share a mix-up involving a film with a strikingly similar name but a much darker tone. So, fill your mug with something warm, settle into your most comfortable chair, and join us for a heartwarming journey through this timeless Christmas Eve tradition.

Ever found yourself fiercely debating whether 'Die Hard' is a Christmas film? Well, so did we on this holly-jolly edition of "Living with Madeley." Andreas and Liam toss aside regular programming, we dished out our top holiday film picks, wading through plot lines thicker than grandma’s eggnog. We even traverse down memory lane, reminiscing about those beloved cinema trips left indelible marks on our festive spirits. Then, with the glee of a child on Christmas morning, Andreas and Leeroy discuss the myriad of takes on "A Christmas Carol." From the timeless Albert Finney rendition to the Muppets' whimsical portrayal, we debate the enduring charm these stories hold within our yuletide traditions. Wrapping up our holiday cinematic sleigh ride, Andreas and I pondered over the peculiar tradition of films like more unusual film choices becoming Christmas fixtures. They might not have the classic trimmings, but they’ve nestled into the nooks of our festive watchlists. So, whether you’re in for the action-packed, the heart-tugging, or just a spoonful of Muppet mayhem, this episode is the perfect stocking stuffer. Tune in, and let's toast to the movies that light up our season as brightly as the star atop the tree.

Step into Royston Vasey's shadowy embrace as Andrew and Liam celebrate the sinister and the satirical in the League of Gentlemen's Christmas special. This isn't your typical sleigh ride; it's a journey into the black heart of comedy where the absence of canned laughter leaves a chilling echo. As we peel back the layers of narrative woven by the masterful Steve Pemberton, Reece Shearsmith, Mark Gatiss, and Jeremy Dyson , expect to find the humour as dark as the winter's night and the stories as twisted as the tinsel on a forgotten tree. Venture further into the realm of the bizarre with Matthew Parker's vampire-laced suspicions, which are sure to raise the hairs on the back of your neck even as you stifle your chuckles. The silent silhouette of Nosferatu looms over our discussion, as we draw parallels between classic horror and the peculiar tales that make this Christmas special a stocking stuffed with coal-dark laughs. Just when you feel the terror creeping in, Herlip's disconcerting presence and the cursed antics of Dr. Chinnery will remind you that even in the bleakest of narratives, there's a glint of glee waiting to be uncovered. Whether you're a cinephile or just in it for the eggnog-infused escapism, this episode promises a festive feast of frights and funnies that will haunt you well into the new year. #DarkComedy #LeagueOfGentlemen #Podcast #ChristmasSpecial

Ready to get into the festive spirit and explore some classic Christmas tunes? This week, we're lighting up the holiday season with our favorite Christmas songs that have ever graced Top of the Pops and share some delightful stories from Christmas past. You'll learn about the iconic "Do They Know It's Christmas?" and its evolution since 1984. We've got a sleigh full of song trivia, from Phil Collins involvement in the original song to the artists who've belted out Bono's classic line in different versions. Who hasn't hummed the tunes of Mike Oldfield or danced along with Pan's People on Christmas eve? We share our thoughts on these legendary musicians and their unique take on traditional carols. The conversatiohn then snowballs into an exciting discussion on other Christmas classics like "White Christmas," "Fairytale of New York," and "Mistletoe and Wine." We dissect the controversial lyrics, memorable performances, and the unforgettable moments these songs have added to our holiday celebrations. #ChristmasTunes #FestivePodcast

Prepare for a journey down memory lane with us, your hosts Andreas and Leggy Warsaw, where we revisit some of the most iconic television moments. Ever wondered how the revelation of an affair can shatter a festive gathering? We're breaking down that unforgettable Christmas episode of EastEnders, where the illicit romance between Max and Stacey was unveiled, and chaos ensued. We'll be sharing our raw reactions, delving into character analysis, and examining the emotional aftermath of this explosive revelation. We put Max Branning's affair under the microscope - exploring not just the repercussions on his own life, but the devastating impact on his unsuspecting family and friends. We'll be painting a vivid picture of Bradley's violent outburst, discussing the surprising wisdom imparted by Stacey's mother and reflecting on Lauren's departure from the show. This is no ordinary Christmas tale, but a complex web of relationships, secrets and lies.