10 American TV Shows That Brits Watch Completely Differently

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10 American TV Shows That Brits Watch Completely Differently

When American TV shows cross the pond to Britain, they sometimes take on a whole new life. Brits might be watching the same shows as Americans, but often, they see things a bit differently. From comedy to reality TV, what’s normal on the screen in the States can be surprising or amusing in the UK. Let’s explore how some popular American TV shows are perceived by British viewers.

1. Friends

Despite “Friends” being a global hit, British audiences often experience this iconic sitcom differently from their American counterparts. The series, known for its witty one-liners and memorable situations, resonates with Brits who love quoting the show. However, some of the American cultural references and styles of humor in “Friends” don’t always hit the mark. This gap sometimes makes certain jokes fall flat, but it doesn’t stop the show from being a beloved classic in British households.

2. The Office (US)

“The Office” US version brings a divide among British viewers. Some argue it lacks the raw, understated humor of the UK original created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. Others appreciate the US version for its unique characters and longer series run, allowing for more developed storylines. This debate keeps the show relevant and frequently discussed in British circles, showing that good comedy transcends borders, albeit differently.

3. House Hunters

For Brits watching “House Hunters,” the show offers a peek into the vast American landscape of real estate. British viewers are often astounded by the sheer size and scale of the homes on display. Coming from a country where space is at a premium, the large, sprawling properties in the US seem almost otherworldly to the British audience, making the show both fascinating and somewhat surreal.

4. COPS

While “COPS” is taken quite seriously by many American viewers as a raw look into law enforcement, Brits tend to find the show amusing. The dramatic encounters and high-octane police chases, which are less common in the UK, appear over-the-top to British viewers. This difference in reception highlights the cultural divide in perceptions of policing and crime between the two countries.

5. Extreme Couponing

“Extreme Couponing” completely baffles British viewers. The concept of spending hours cutting coupons to save extreme amounts of money on groceries is a foreign concept in the UK, where such couponing culture doesn’t exist. To Brits, the lengths to which people go on the show are both confusing and mesmerizing, making it a true spectacle of American consumerism.

6. My 600-lb Life

Watching “My 600-lb Life,” British viewers find themselves both intrigued and shocked by the personal stories and the depiction of US portion sizes. The concept of food portions being so large that they could contribute to such extreme weight challenges is almost unbelievable. This show serves as a lens into the American lifestyle that fascinates and alarms British audiences simultaneously.

7. Hell’s Kitchen

Gordon Ramsay might be a familiar face on British TV, but his persona on “Hell’s Kitchen” USA is far more intense and aggressive than what British viewers are used to. This stark contrast in his demeanor can be jarring for Brits, who know him as tough yet fair. The American version’s heightened drama and conflict add an extra layer of entertainment that is consumed with a mix of surprise and amusement.

8. Judge Judy

“Judge Judy” epitomizes the American legal entertainment that British audiences find perplexing. The idea of watching real-life court cases for entertainment is not common in the UK, making this show a curiosity. The drama and personality of Judge Judy herself are intriguing to Brits, who watch to try to understand the appeal of such courtroom confrontations.

9. Keeping Up With The Kardashians

Even though many Brits claim to dislike “Keeping Up With The Kardashians,” they still find themselves watching it. The fascination with the extravagant lifestyles and constant drama provides a guilty pleasure or a point of ridicule. Regardless of the stance, it’s a topic of conversation and a connection to global pop culture.

10. The Super Bowl

For British viewers, the Super Bowl is less about the sport and more about the spectacle surrounding it. The game itself might be an afterthought, but the flashy advertisements and the star-studded halftime show capture the attention. This event offers Brits a taste of American culture in its most lavish form, making it a must-watch for the entertainment value alone.