Watch Bo' Selecta!

Bo' Selecta! is a comedy sketch show that aired on Channel 4 in the UK from 2002 to 2004. The show was created by and starred Leigh Francis, who went on to become well-known for his character Keith Lemon. The show itself was a unique and irreverent mix of comedy, music, and satire that pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable on mainstream television. Much of the humor was based around Francis' knack for impressions, and the show featured a wide cast of characters that he brought to life with incredible accuracy.

One of the main features of the show was Francis' portrayal of various celebrities, including Michael Jackson, Craig David, and Mel B. His impression of Jackson was particularly memorable, with Francis donning a distinctive mask and high-pitched voice to play the pop icon. He also created a number of original characters, such as Avid Merrion, a sleazy paparazzo who became one of the show's breakout stars.

Alongside the celebrity impressions and original characters, Bo' Selecta! also featured musical segments that parodied popular songs and music videos. These segments were often highly elaborate, with Francis enlisting the help of backing dancers and elaborate sets to create over-the-top music videos that were both amusing and entertaining.

In addition to the celebrity and musical segments, Bo' Selecta! also included a number of sketches that poked fun at various aspects of popular culture. Some of the most popular sketches included parodies of reality TV shows, such as Big Brother and MTV Cribs, as well as satirical takes on news programs and soap operas.

One of the reasons why Bo' Selecta! was such a popular show was due to its willingness to take risks and push boundaries. The humor was often crude and irreverent, and the show wasn't afraid to go to places that other shows wouldn't touch. At the same time, however, there was a genuine warmth and affection to the show that prevented it from ever becoming too mean-spirited.

Despite its popularity, Bo' Selecta! was not without its controversies. Some critics accused the show of being racially insensitive, due to Francis' use of blackface in some of his celebrity impressions. Others took issue with the show's portrayal of Michael Jackson, as well as its often sexually suggestive humor.

Despite the controversies, however, Bo' Selecta! remains a beloved show among many viewers in the UK. Its unique blend of humor, music, and satire continues to influence comedy today, and its impact on popular culture is undeniable.