Thursday 22 November 2012

BBC Four to broadcast PARKS & RECREATION next year

Thursday 22 November 2012

Days after the UK's FX channel announced they'll be broadcasting FX's Louie in the new year, BBC Four have now revealed they've bought NBC's Parks & Recreation and will air the first two seasons from spring 2013. One assumes they'll buy the third, fourth and fifth if ratings are strong. (Yes, we're that far behind.)

It's great to see two popular US shows secure a UK broadcaster here (finally!), although I'm still frustrated Breaking Bad isn't a colossal hit for More4 and Community isn't E4's best-rated comedy over The Big Bang Theory. Still, at least this means more British viewers will get a chance to sample two quality shows the internet's always talking about.

Awhile ago I was debating giving Parks & Rec a try and was advised to start with season 2 because the first year is apparently very weak and finding its voice. So I watched the second season premiere and, well, didn't laugh very much and didn't feel a connection with any of the characters. But it's a show that gets a lot of love online (which is impossible to ignore if you're on Twitter especially), so maybe I'll give it another chance from the start when BBC4 start their airings.

If you're unaware, Parks & Recreation is a mockumentary following the goings on of a small town government department, headed up by mid-level politician Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler). It has won numerous awards, including an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series and three nods for Poehler's performance.

What does everyone else make of Parks & Rec, who's seen it? And what do you make to a few more US hits making their debuts across the pond? Should anything else be following hot on their heels?