Lee Mack has made waves as he continues to write for the 14th series of his beloved BBC One sitcom, Not Going Out. First aired back in 2006, this traditional studio sitcom, featuring Mack alongside stars Sally Bretton, Hugh Dennis, and Abigail Cruttenden, has developed a loyal following over the years.
Yet, Mack expresses doubts about whether Not Going Out would even make it to the screen if he were to pitch it today. “It would be hard to get it made now. It’s a live studio audience, proper old school, four or five cameras, all live edited,” he shared during his appearance on 'The Alexei Sayle Podcast'. This statement reflects the changing tides of television production, where traditional sitcom formats seem to be sidelined due to shifting audience preferences.
Despite his reservations, Mack takes pride in the show's longevity. It stands as the second-longest British sitcom after Last of the Summer Wine. He noted, "We've had some years off so that's why the maths don’t add up. We’ve been cancelled as well after Series 3. The BBC cancelled it after three series." This history highlights the show's tumultuous beginnings, where it was initially yanked after its third season only to experience resurgence based on fond memories and audience demand.
This year, Mack is also celebrating the release of 'Bad Tidings,' a festive film co-starring Chris McCausland, which has already started making waves as part of Christmas viewing. The movie revolves around two warring neighbors, played by Mack and McCausland, who are forcefully united to solve a neighborhood crime. 'Bad Tidings' has drawn comparisons to Christmas classic Home Alone, with many viewers branding it ‘easily one of the best comedy Christmas films I have watched in years.’
MCausland, one of the writers of Bad Tidings, and Mack have shared screens before, strengthening their friendship over years of collaborative efforts on the TV comedy circuit. “I had this idea about a Christmas heist involving a blind character taking down the villains, with lots of visual comedy and action,” McCausland explained. His enthusiasm and confidence were clear as he approached Mack to star without having seen the script until later.
The comedy duo’s chemistry was solidified after their joint appearance at the BAFTAS, where they humorously navigated presenting an award, marking significant milestones as the first blind comedian duo to present at such prestigious awards. Social media feedback applauded their witty delivery and unique partnership, with users calling it the highlight of the BAFTAS: “This was the only highlight of the BAFTAS. The rest was tiresome,” said one viewer.
Although Mack and McCausland don’t currently have additional TV projects lined up, they've expressed interest in future collaborations, joking about potential sequels and their working relationship. “We do work well together […] we tolerate each other,” Mack quipped, underscoring their camaraderie both on and off-camera.
Meanwhile, the Christmas special episode of Not Going Out has added yet another layer of holiday cheer to the family viewing lineup. Fulfilling Lucy's desire for charitable acts, the episode’s premise sees the couple invite Wilfred—a lonely pensioner from the care home—to join them for Christmas dinner. Having humorously touched on the challenges of keeping things organized during the festive season, Mack’s character must juggle the dynamics brought by Lucy's family and their quirky guests.
With 'Bad Tidings' being available for streaming, audiences can expect more light-hearted entertainment during the holiday season. Viewers are already applauding the film on social platforms, with comments rolling in praising its humor and feel-good atmosphere. One fan on X shared, “This was such a feel-good, funny Christmas movie... Definitely worth a watch!” as the excitement for Mack's new holiday contribution to comedy grows.
Lee Mack's unwavering commitment to blending traditional sitcom styles with contemporary humor reiterates his adaptability within the industry, even as the formats change. “For the next couple of years I’m happy with what I know I’m doing,” he expressed, referring to the various projects lined up for him. Amidst all this, his focus remains clear: continue making audiences laugh, whether through the traditional route of sitcoms or the more modern avenues to express humor.
