Abigoliah Schamaun learns British comedy from Tom Salinsky

Welcome to All British Comedy Explained

If you’re new here — welcome! Start with any of the episodes below.
We release new episodes every Thursday at 12 noon (UK time).

Ben Elton: A Conversation About Comedy and Craft

Hear from one of the most influential voices in British comedy: Blackadder, The Young Ones, Bottom, The Thin Blue Line, stand-up, novels, musicals — and more.

This is a brilliant introduction to the world we explore each week, and a perfect starting point for new listeners.

Monty Python’s Flying Circus Explained

Tom walks Abigoliah through why Monty Python matters, how it changed comedy, and which episodes to watch if you’re new to the series.

A perfect entry point for exploring the British comedy canon.

Or just start at the beginning…

A friendly, informal introduction to what this podcast is all about — the shows we’ll cover, how the episodes work, and why we’re exploring the greatest British comedy series ever made.

A great place to start if you want context before diving into the main episodes.

Each week, Tom Salinsky and American comedian Abigoliah Schamaun dive into the greatest British comedy TV shows ever made — what makes them work, why they matter, and how they shaped comedy culture.

We explore:
• Sketch shows
• Sitcoms
• Cult favourites
• Forgotten gems
• And interviews with the creators, performers, and writers who made them

Get behind-the-scenes insights, extra recommendations, and updates every week.
Short, fun, and all about British comedy.