Goodies

Goodies refers to the British television comedy series The Goodies, created by and starring Tim Brooke-Taylor, Graeme Garden, and Bill Oddie. Broadcast on BBC2 from 1969 to 1982, the show combined sketch comedy with continuation segments and musical numbers, producing a distinctive style of surreal humor and physical comedy. Each episode typically presented multiple self-contained sketches linked by short narrative sequences, with the trio frequently performing on-location stunts and elaborate props. The humor drew on satire, wordplay, and visual gags, and frequently lampooned contemporary culture, science, or show business.

The Goodies arose from collaborations among three comedians; the performers wrote much of the material themselves and collaborated with writers and directors for others. The program featured guest stars from British television and cinema; notable episodes included Kitten Kong, a mini-spectacle featuring a giant cat attacking London, and other memorable stunts. Music numbers, sung or performed within sketches, were a recurring element.

Reception and legacy: The series developed a devoted following in the UK and abroad, contributing to the development of British alternative comedy and inspiring later sketch-based programs. It faced occasional controversy over on-screen violence and controversial satire, leading to edits or bans in some markets. After its original run, The Goodies maintained popularity through repeat broadcasts, home video releases, and continued cultural influence, with its comedy cited as an influence on later generations of British comedians.