Actor and writer Bob Odenkirk has recently praised the British sitcom The Royle Family, declaring it a must-watch for everyone. Odenkirk, who has carved out a unique niche in Hollywood, began his journey as a writer for Saturday Night Live (SNL) before moving into a variety of sketch comedies and films, mostly in comedic roles such as those in Arrested Development, How I Met Your Mother, and The Cable Guy. His career took a pivotal turn when he was cast as Saul Goodman in Breaking Bad in 2009, leading him to become one of today’s most sought-after actors.
Now recognized as a leading star, Odenkirk has achieved great success with his critically acclaimed series Better Call Saul, as well as in the action film Nobody and notable dramas like The People’s Joker. His evolution from sketch comedy to award-winning drama is a remarkable feat that highlights his versatility and depth as a creative professional. Given his experience, it’s worth considering when Odenkirk recommends a series: his positive opinion likely reflects its quality and impact.
A Major Source of Inspiration: The Royle Family
Multiple Viewings of the Series
Odenkirk has expressed that The Royle Family is his all-time favorite sitcom. In a special feature for Variety, he elaborated on his affection for the show. Odenkirk remarked:
“TV provides comfort — and usually in an artificial, forced way. People are happy to take any kind of comfort they can, and I don’t blame them. But ‘The Royle Family’ is more challenging. There’s real feeling here. This is a beautiful piece of art — as complex as a film like ‘Ordinary People’ or ‘The Graduate.’
Odenkirk further reflected on the complex family dynamics presented in the show, noting that while they are often dysfunctional, they also exhibit genuine affection. He shared a personal anecdote, stating:
“When my son was 12, my family had some challenges we were dealing with… so I decided to show him ‘The Royle Family.’ Watching this show, for a 12-year-old kid who grew up in L.A., was hilarious and comforting. It showed a family making subtle allowances for the ways in which they’ve been hurt — and they push back, but they never break apart… It’s a confounding and, simultaneously, a beautiful thing… Since we first watched the series, I’ve watched it two more times, and we started it again a few weeks ago.”
This series holds significant emotional value for Odenkirk, serving as a source of solace during a tumultuous period for his family.
The Royle Family: A Historic Sitcom with Lasting Influence
Recognized as One of Britain’s Finest Sitcoms
Though The Royle Family only aired for three seasons from 1998 to 2000, with a total of 25 episodes including five specials released between 2006 and 2012, it has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of British television. Set in Manchester, the show centers on the Royle family, primarily featuring patriarch Jim (played by Ricky Tomlinson), matriarch Barbara (Sue Johnston), daughter Denise (Caroline Aherne), son Antony (Ralf Little), and Denise’s fiancé David (Craig Cash). The series provides a humorous yet poignant portrayal of their everyday struggles.
Odenkirk aptly characterized the Royle family’s existence as fraught with tensions yet resilient, navigating their challenges with both humor and heart. The series has garnered multiple BAFTA awards and continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest British sitcoms. Tomlinson’s portrayal of the grumpy yet endearing Jim Royle is often lauded as one of the best representations of a sitcom dad.
Essential Viewing for Sitcom Enthusiasts
A Realistic Depiction of a Dysfunctional Family
For anyone who enjoys sitcoms, The Royle Family is a series that warrants attention. Its total of 25 episodes, most running under the half-hour mark, makes it feasible to binge-watch the entire series in just a couple of weeks. More than its runtime, the show is remarkable in its ability to present discomforting realities with a sense of comfort. The characters do not neatly resolve their issues by the end of each episode; rather, they confront and accept their circumstances, leading to a profound emotional experience that resonates with viewers.