Watch Chewin' the Fat

Chewin' the Fat was a Scottish sketch comedy series that was broadcast on BBC One from 1999 to 2005. The show was created by Ford Kiernan and Greg Hemphill, who also starred in the series along with Karen Dunbar. It was set in Glasgow and featured a range of characters that were meant to represent the common people of Scotland. The show gained a cult following during its run, and is considered one of the most successful Scottish comedy series.

The show's humor was predominantly character-based, with characters including the politically incorrect Scottish football commentators Jack and Victor, posh "monied" couple Boaby and Jacqueline, old ladies Isa and Edith, Scots-Italian family the Dino's and the fast-food loving Lonie family. There were also recurring characters such as the Scottish anti-hero Fergie, who couldn't seem to do anything right, and the aggressive and foul-mouthed Granny Duguid, who always had some harsh words for her family.

One of the unique features of Chewin' the Fat was the way its sketches often weaved in and out of one another, creating a kind of sitcom-like feel. The show portrayed everyday situations in a comical way, from shopping trips to football games, and featured genuine locations around Scotland, lending a sense of authenticity to the humor.

The show also had a musical element, with regular musical performances and songs, often performed by Karen Dunbar, who had a background in stand-up comedy and musical theater. The musicianship was top-notch, and the songs were catchy enough to have viewers humming along long after the show had ended. The music was an important element of the show, creating an upbeat atmosphere and adding a level of wittiness to the sketches.

Chewin' the Fat's popularity was perhaps due to its ability to balance crude humor with genuine warmth and affection for its characters. Despite its many absurd characters and situations, the show was able to tap into a certain sense of reality, with the characters and situations reflecting life in Scotland for many people. The show tackled topics like aging, family, and community in a humorous way, with jokes that were both silly and insightful.

One of the keys to the show's success was its relatability. Even though the characters were often outrageous and larger than life, their struggles and joys were real, making the show feel grounded and authentic. The show's humor was never mean-spirited, and it never punched down at anyone who might be perceived as weaker or marginalized.

The show was also notable for featuring a diverse cast, with Karen Dunbar being one of Scotland's few openly lesbian comedians. The show's creators actively sought to create a cast of characters that would reflect the diversity of Scotland's working-class population.

Overall, Chewin' the Fat was a funny and relatable Scottish comedy series that was able to balance crude humor with heartwarming moments. Its relatable characters, catchy songs, and authentic portrayal of life in Scotland made it a hit with viewers during its run, and a cult classic in the years since. Whether you're a fan of Scottish culture, or just looking for a good laugh, Chewin' the Fat is a show that's worth checking out.