From Monty Python to Mediocrity: What Happened to British Comedy?
Comedy is a delicate thing. It teeters on the edge of offense, brilliance, and absurdity, often all at once. And no one did it better than the Brits back in the day.
Yes, I’m talking about the likes of Monty Python’s Flying Circus, Blackadder, and Only Fools and Horses. These weren’t just TV shows; they were cultural events, delivering laughs sharper than a barber's razor and wit so quick it could dodge a bullet.
Fast forward to today, and what do we have? Reality TV, tepid sitcoms, and humour sanitized to the point of being flavourless.
What happened?
Is it cancel culture, political correctness, or simply that people forgot how to write a good punchline?
Let’s explore this (and if you’re offended, consider this a warning: I really don’t care). Take Monty Python, for example. A group of Oxbridge graduates who somehow made the surreal seem relatable. They gave us The Ministry of Silly Walks, dead parrots, and lumberjacks singing about cross-dressing. Today, they’d probably be “cancelled” by a coalition of ornithologists, loggers, and the fashion police.
Back then, however, they were national treasures. The beauty of Python was that they didn’t care who they offended. They skewered everyone equally. Politicians, royalty, the clergy—no one was safe.
Then came Blackadder, a masterclass in sarcasm and wordplay. Rowan Atkinson’s snide, cunning Blackadder was the epitome of the anti-hero. And the insults? Oh, the insults. From describing someone as having "the intellectual capacity of a boiled potato" to comparing a cunning plan to "a fox who just graduated from Oxford with a degree in cunning," the dialogue was a chef's kiss of comedic writing.
Imagine pitching Blackadder Goes Forth today. A comedy set in the trenches of WWI? Cue the outrage. "How dare you make light of such a tragic time in history?" Well, guess what? That’s the point. By mixing humour with tragedy, the show gave us a deeper appreciation for the human condition.
And then there’s Only Fools and Horses, the crown jewel of British sitcoms. Del Boy and Rodney were a pair of wheeler-dealers trying to make it big, usually failing miserably. It was relatable, heart-warming, and downright hilarious. Remember Del Boy falling through the bar? Iconic. Rodney dressed as a gladiator? Priceless. Yet, beneath the humour was a layer of poignancy.
These were characters who, despite their flaws and failures, were endlessly hopeful. Today’s sitcoms might attempt something similar, but they lack the heart, the grit, and frankly, the guts to deliver those moments.
So, why don’t we have shows like these anymore? Is it because comedy evolved?
Hardly. If anything, it’s devolved. The real culprit seems to be a combination of fear, outrage culture, and an unwillingness to take risks.
Take Fawlty Towers, for instance. Basil Fawlty yelling at the German guests, “Don’t mention the war!” was one of the most brilliant comedic moments ever. Today, that scene would never make it past the script stage. Why? Because someone would decide it’s offensive to Germans, war veterans, or perhaps people who don’t like John Cleese’s moustache.
This brings us to cancel culture—a phenomenon where one bad joke can end a career. Comedians now have to tiptoe around sensitive topics, and it’s killing the art. The best comedy comes from pushing boundaries, not cowering behind them. When was the last time you saw a comedy that genuinely shocked you? Not because it was vulgar for the sake of it, but because it was clever, daring, and unapologetic?
The golden age of British comedy didn’t shy away from controversy; it leaned into it. Now, let’s not pretend the old shows were perfect. There were jokes in those series that wouldn’t land today—and rightly so. Comedy should evolve, but evolution doesn’t mean extinction. It’s possible to be edgy without being offensive.
At its best, British humour is a blend of sarcasm, absurdity, and a willingness to laugh at ourselves. It’s why jokes like: "My wife said I never listen to her. At least, I think that’s what she said." still resonate. Maybe one day, someone will take a risk, offend a few people, and remind us all why laughter really is the best medicine.
Until then, we’ll just have to keep re-watching Only Fools and Horses. And honestly, I’m okay with that. As Del Boy would say, “This time next year, we’ll be millionaires!” Or maybe, just maybe, we’ll have a decent comedy series again. One can dream.
Read more Englishman in Dubrovnik…well, if you really want to
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About the author
Mark Thomas (aka Englez u Dubrovniku) is the editor of The Dubrovnik Times. He was born and educated in the UK and moved to live in Dubrovnik in 1998. He works across a whole range of media, from a daily radio show to TV and in print. Thomas is fluent in Croatian and this column is available in Croatia on the website – Dubrovnik Vjesnik
Dubrovnik Tops Best Christmas Destinations List
Dubrovnik has once again captured global attention, this time as the top Christmas destination for 2024, according to PrivacyJournal.net. The recognition follows the city’s recent accolade as one of the top six cities for digital nomads in 2024 by Nomad.com.
“Croatia’s Dubrovnik emerges as the surprise winner, offering an optimal balance of strong connectivity, reasonable costs, and festive atmosphere,” writes PrivacyJournal.net. The city’s allure during the holiday season, combined with its affordability and robust digital infrastructure, makes it a standout choice for travelers seeking a magical winter getaway.
At the heart of Dubrovnik’s holiday appeal is the Dubrovnik Winter Festival. The event transforms the historic Old City into a vibrant wonderland of lights, music, and culinary delights. With the city adorned in Christmas colors, visitors can enjoy open-air concerts, traditional treats, and a festive ambiance that is hard to match.
For digital nomads or travelers requiring workspaces during their stay, Dubrovnik offers a range of co-working options to suit various needs. With its blend of productivity-friendly amenities and seasonal charm, the city truly shines as an ideal destination for the holiday season.
Croatia Leads EU in Employment Growth and Ranks High in GDP Gains for Q3
Croatia recorded one of the highest GDP growth rates in the EU in the third quarter, alongside Malta, and demonstrated the strongest pace of employment growth, according to data published on Friday by the European statistical office.
The eurozone economy grew by 0.9% in Q3 compared to the same period last year, following a 0.5% increase in the second quarter, Eurostat confirmed in its latest estimates.
At the EU level, activity increased by 1.0%, slightly outpacing growth in the spring months.
On a quarterly basis, the economy in both the eurozone and the EU expanded by 0.4% from July to September, twice as much as in the previous three months.
Alongside Malta
Malta posted the highest annual GDP growth in Q3, at 5.4%.
Croatia followed with GDP growth of 4.1% in Q3, based on calendar-adjusted data, up from 3.2% in Q2.
Close behind Croatia were Denmark and Cyprus, with growth rates of 3.9% and 3.8%, respectively, from July to September.
Largest Growth Among "Big" Economies in Spain
Among the larger economies, Spain recorded the highest growth, at 3.4%, followed by France, where activity increased by 1.2%. In contrast, Germany's GDP contracted by 0.3%.
Latvia recorded the sharpest annual contraction, with GDP falling by 1.0%, followed by Austria and Hungary, with declines of 0.8% and 0.7%, respectively.
Quarterly Surge in Ireland
On a quarterly basis, Ireland saw the highest GDP growth in Q3, at 3.5%, although its figures often show significant fluctuations.
Next were Lithuania and Denmark, both with quarterly growth of 1.2%.
Croatia's economy grew by 0.8% quarter-on-quarter in Q3, based on seasonally adjusted data, compared to 1.0% growth in Q2. Spain and the Netherlands posted the same growth rate as Croatia in Q3.
Hungary recorded the steepest quarterly GDP decline, at 0.7%, followed by Latvia (-0.2%) and Austria, Poland, and Romania (-0.1% each).
Steady Employment Growth
The number of employed persons in the eurozone grew by 0.2% from July to September compared to the previous quarter, maintaining the same pace as in the spring months, according to revised data.
In the EU, employment held steady in Q3 compared to the previous quarter, which saw a 0.1% increase.
Annually, employment in the eurozone grew by 1.0% in Q3, slightly faster than in the prior quarter.
Revised EU data showed annual employment growth of 0.7% in Q3, down from 0.9% growth in Q2.
Sharp Rise in Croatia
Croatia recorded the highest annual increase in employment in Q3, at 6.9%, compared to 6.5% growth in the previous quarter.
Croatian employers also led in quarterly employment growth, with 1.5% more workers in Q3, compared to a 1.4% increase in Q2.
Malta ranked second with a 4.5% annual increase in employment. However, in quarterly employment growth, Malta was surpassed by Ireland (1.2% growth) and Croatia, with Malta reporting a 1.0% increase.
Latvia and Finland saw the sharpest annual declines in employment, at 1.2% and 1.0%, respectively.
On a quarterly basis, Romania stood out with the largest employment decline in Q3, at 3.1%, according to Eurostat data.
On the 33rd anniversary of the heroic defense of Dubrovnik, the Mayor of Dubrovnik has issued an open letter to honor the city’s defenders. In his heartfelt message, he expresses a deep mix of sorrow and pride as the city remembers the events of December 6, 1991, a pivotal day in Dubrovnik's history. The Mayor pays tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who fought to protect the city during one of its darkest hours.
Dear Dubrovnik Defenders,
Today, as we commemorate the Day of Dubrovnik Defenders and the 33rd anniversary of the heroic defense of our City, a mix of deep feelings of sorrow and pride fills our hearts.
Sorrow, as our memories take us back to December 6, 1991, one of the darkest days in Dubrovnik's history, when enemy shells left indelible marks on human lives, the streets of our City, and in the memories of all Dubrovnik residents. On that fateful day, the city of freedom was in flames, and many of you, brave defenders, fought with superhuman strength to preserve what many thought was lost.
Pride fills our hearts because, on that day, you, undeterred by a superior enemy, stood ready to defend your Homeland, your families, and your Dubrovnik.
Together with your brothers-in-arms, you built an impenetrable wall of love, courage, and determination, and you defended the City.
On this day, we remember with special reverence all those who gave their lives for the freedom of Dubrovnik and Croatia. We owe them immeasurable gratitude for every day we live freely in our beautiful City.
To all Dubrovnik defenders, their families, and the families of the fallen and all those who suffered, I express my deepest gratitude for everything you have done for our City and Homeland.
Eternal thanks to you!
Rafale Jet Flyover to Honor Dubrovnik Defenders
As part of the Defender's Day commemorations, today the 6th of December, at 12 p.m., a Rafale jet from the Croatian Air Force will fly over Srđ Hill to honor all Dubrovnik defenders.
During the flyover, a sonic boom and increased noise levels in the city area may occur.
Dubrovnik Marks Defender's Day and the 33rd Anniversary of the City’s Worst Attack in the Homeland War
Today, Dubrovnik commemorates Defender's Day and the 33rd anniversary of the most devastating attack on the city during the Homeland War. The attack by Yugoslav and Montenegrin aggressor forces began in the early hours of December 6, 1991. From dawn, the city was bombarded from land and sea, resulting in the deaths of 19 civilians and four defenders, with dozens more injured. Thousands of projectiles rained down on Dubrovnik, including its historic old town. Over 460 buildings were damaged during the onslaught.
During the aggression on Dubrovnik and its surroundings, more than 300 defenders and civilians lost their lives, while over 30,000 people were forced to flee their homes. The material damage was immeasurable.
The fiercest attacks targeted the Imperial Fortress on Srđ Hill, the old city center, and areas such as Sustjepan, Nuncijata, and the Belvedere Hotel. Starting around 6 a.m., the assault on all defensive lines lasted throughout the day. At one point, a small group of defenders stationed at the Imperial Fortress, under heavy attack from the numerically superior and better-armed enemy, requested defensive fire to be directed at the fortress itself. This was the only way to halt the advancing enemy forces, which had reached the fortress walls.
On that fateful day, December 6, 1991, a total of 163 defenders held the front lines and successfully protected Dubrovnik. This number later became the designation of Dubrovnik's 163rd Brigade of the Croatian Army.
Zagrebačka Banka Named Best Bank in Croatia by The Banker
Zagrebačka banka has been awarded the prestigious Bank of the Year title for the best bank in Croatia by the renowned international financial magazine The Banker. For the second consecutive year, UniCredit Group, of which Zagrebačka banka is a member, also received recognition as Bank of the Year and the best bank in Europe.
At a ceremony held in London, UniCredit Group members in Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina were also honored as the best banks in their respective countries.
“This award for the best bank in Croatia is another confirmation of Zagrebačka banka’s leading role in the domestic market, as well as UniCredit’s position in Europe. We are immensely proud of this recognition, which reflects the dedication and hard work of the entire Zaba team in providing our clients with exceptional banking services. I thank our clients for their trust, which inspires us to continuously improve. Together, we create success stories that drive the Croatian economy and contribute to the development of our communities,” said Dalibor Ćubela, CEO of Zagrebačka banka.
In recent years, UniCredit has been committed to cultural and industrial transformation, focusing on fundamental changes to redefine its future as a bank for the Europe of tomorrow.
“We are proud of these recognitions, which, for the second year in a row, affirm the success of the UniCredit Unlocked strategy. In three years, this strategy has transformed the bank into a market leader, setting a new benchmark for banking in Europe. We thank all UniCredit employees whose hard work and dedication to clients and communities made this achievement possible and who continue to build on this success,” added Andrea Orcel, UniCredit Group CEO.
The Banker, established in 1926, is one of the most significant magazines in the global financial and banking sector. Known for its objective reporting, it provides economic and financial insights into the industry.
Traditional Dubrovnik Christmas Concert with DSO, Four Tenors, Renata Sabljak, Marija Vidović, and the Blasius Choir
The Traditional Dubrovnik Christmas Concert will take place on Friday, December 20, at 8:00 PM at the Valamar Lacroma Hotel, bringing the festive spirit to locals and visitors alike.
The concert will be conducted by maestro Ivan Hut and will feature the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra (DSO), joined by the Four Tenors, sopranos Renata Sabljak and Marija Vidović, and the Blasius Choir.
The program will include a variety of traditional songs, ranging from beloved Christmas classics to authentic festive melodies, offering musical diversity and creating a true holiday atmosphere.
Tickets, priced at €13 and €17, can be purchased at the Tisak Media Center at Pile Gate from Monday to Saturday between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM, at the KIC Luža from Monday to Friday between 4:00 PM and 9:00 PM, and on weekends from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM. They are also available online at ulaznice.hr.
The concert is organized in collaboration with the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra, the City of Dubrovnik, the Dubrovnik Tourist Board, the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, and the Valamar Group.
For more information about the Dubrovnik Christmas Concert and other events within the 11th Dubrovnik Winter Festival, visit the festival’s website, follow its social media channels, or check the Dubrovnik City Event Calendar.
Lufthansa Boosts Flights to Pula for Summer 2025
Lufthansa has announced a significant increase in flights to Pula for the 2025 summer season. The airline will operate four weekly flights from both Frankfurt and Munich to the coastal city throughout the season, compared to two and one weekly flights in 2024. This change adds five additional weekly rotations to Pula, reports EX-YU Aviation.
The Frankfurt-Pula route will resume earlier than usual, starting on April 25, 2025, compared to June 3 this year. However, the Munich-Pula route will begin slightly later, on May 10, 2025.
Lufthansa plans to deploy CRJ900s, Embraer E190s, and E195s on these routes. In total, 193 flights from Germany to Pula are scheduled for 2025, a significant increase from 67 in 2024.
Schedules may be subject to change.
Dubrovnik Wins Best Smart City Award for the Third Time
The City of Dubrovnik has been awarded the title of Best City in the Smart City category, with the recognition presented to Mayor Mato Franković during a ceremony in Šibenik attended by Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.
For the third time, Dubrovnik has been recognized as a national leader in Smart City technologies and acknowledged internationally as a trailblazer in implementing advanced systems. Many of its projects have become benchmarks for other cities. These technologies are aimed at enhancing all aspects of life in Dubrovnik. Among them is the "VOX POPULI system", the first online participatory budgeting model in Croatia, accessible through the e-Citizens system. It enables residents to participate in selecting and voting on project proposals for their local district or community, fostering greater citizen involvement in decision-making processes.
To reduce traffic in the vicinity of the historic city center, the city has introduced technical and traffic-management solutions. Equipment, including video surveillance for regulating tourist bus and private car parking and stopping, has been installed (8+1 zones). The city also launched the "BUS WEB SHOP" application for reserving vehicle stops in protected zones. This system streamlines on-the-ground processes, reduces congestion, and eases entry points into the city, contributing to sustainable traffic management.
Another standout Smart City tool is the "Dubrovnik Pass", which serves as a combined ticket for major attractions, promoting cultural heritage while dispersing visitors to alleviate pressure on the most popular sites. Since its introduction, the pass has achieved excellent results, with September 2024 recording its highest monthly revenue.
Additional Smart City tools implemented include the "Dubrovnik Visitors app", which tracks the number of visitors within the historic center and predicts visitor numbers, and "Dubrovačko oko", an interactive platform for communication between the city administration and citizens, enabling quicker information flow and faster resolution of minor municipal issues. Dubrovnik has also introduced "Smart Parking" and a "Car Sharing service" with 100% electric vehicles.
The awards ceremony was part of the annual conference Days of Regional Development and EU Funds, held in Šibenik from December 4–6, organized by the Ministry of Regional Development and EU Funds. This year's conference focused on opportunities offered by EU funds, including further investments in regional development, sustainable growth, and fostering collaboration between regional and local stakeholders. A special program for entrepreneurs was also introduced.
Mayor Franković was joined at the conference by Martina Skopljaković, Head of the Department for EU Funds and Economy.
The Voice of Dubrovnik
