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Two cops so bad at their job that solving crimes is practically an accident — and it's glorious.
TMDB
67
IMDb
74
Google
86
Watch(GB)

The Detectives (1993)

Chaotic goodBritish farcePartners in crime

Latest Episode

Mine's A Large One

Season 5 • Episode 6

Latest

Mine's A Large One

Feb 18, 1997

Briggs and Louis have found their true vocation - the river police. With peace, quiet and the total absence of any type of crime, it seems like paradise. Then the boat runs into an unexploded WWII river mine...

Overview

Comedy

The absurd adventures of two defective detectives, who - despite unbelievable incompetence - somehow manage to solve their cases (or be nearby when the cases are solved) and retain their jobs.

Flag of GBGB
Content warning
spin offpolice detectivesitcomspoof
Incompetence as virtueInstitutional absurdityFriendship through failure

Standout Aspects

Writing

Carrott's wordplay and escalating absurdity in every scene

Acting

Powell's straight-man suffering against Carrott's chaos

Practical Effects

Deliberately cheap 90s BBC production adds to charm

Best for:Solo: Perfect comfort viewing when you need zero stress·Friends: Group watch for maximum quote-reciting potential·Background: Ideal for folding laundry with occasional chuckle
Heads up:Language: Mild British slang and innuendo typical of the era
Jasper Carrott

Creator

Jasper Carrott

First AiredJan 27, 1993
StatusEnded

Vibe

Pacesteady
Intensitylow
Tonelight
Feellight
Seasons5·Episodes29
BBC One

Top Cast

Robert Powell

Robert Powell

Dave Briggs

George Sewell

George Sewell

Superintendent Cottam

Jasper Carrott

Jasper Carrott

Bob Louis

Ask about The Detectives

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Deep Dive

Trivia, insights & behind the scenes

Trivia

Spawned from a single sketch in Jasper Carrott's stand-up show, proving sometimes one joke deserves five seasons.

Cultural

Parodied the grim serious British crime dramas of the 80s just as they peaked, making it a sly period piece.

Gallery

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