Watch Goodnight Sweetheart

Goodnight Sweetheart is a British sitcom that originally aired from 1993 to 1999, and subsequently returned for a one-off special in 2016. The show stars Nicholas Lyndhurst as Gary Sparrow, a TV repairman living in the present day who discovers a time portal in a disused pub and uses it to travel back to the 1940s. There, he starts a double-life as a time-traveling bigamist with two wives – Phoebe (played by Elizabeth Carling) in the 1940s, and Yvonne (played by Emma Amos) in the 1990s.

Over the course of the series, Gary becomes increasingly embroiled in his double-life, as he tries to juggle his two marriages, conceal his true identity from his friends and family, and avoid suspicion from the authorities. Along the way, he gets drawn into various historical events and meets a range of colorful characters from both time periods, including his own ancestors.

One of the key themes of the show is nostalgia – both for the wartime community spirit of the 1940s and the cultural icons of the 1990s, such as Britpop and Friends. Another recurring motif is the idea of the grass always being greener on the other side – Gary is torn between his love for both Phoebe and Yvonne, and struggles to decide which time period he really wants to be in.

The show also explores wider social and political issues, such as the changing roles of women in society and the impact of war on everyday life. Through Gary's interactions with characters from both time periods, we see how attitudes towards gender, race, and sexuality have evolved over the years.

Despite its complex premise, Goodnight Sweetheart is a warm and funny show that has become a classic of British sitcom. Nicholas Lyndhurst is perfectly cast as the lovable but hapless Gary, while Victor McGuire gives a memorable performance as his best friend Ron, who provides much of the comic relief. The other members of the cast also shine in their roles, bringing a depth and humanity to their characters that elevates the show above many other sitcoms of the era.

The show's pacing is also noteworthy, as it manages to balance the frantic energy of Gary's double-life with moments of genuine emotion and reflection. The result is a show that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, and that has stood the test of time.

Overall, if you're looking for a witty, heartwarming comedy with a unique twist, Goodnight Sweetheart is well worth a watch. With its winning combination of comedy, drama, and time travel, it's a show that will leave you laughing, crying, and thinking long after the final credits roll.