The Detectorists is a British television comedy series that aired from 2014 to 2017. The show follows the lives of two friends, Andy and Lance, who spend their days metal detecting in the English countryside in search of hidden treasures. The series has been praised for its gentle humor, charming characters, and beautiful cinematography. If you’re a fan of The Detectorists and are looking for similar shows to watch, here are some recommendations along with 13 song examples that capture the essence of each show.
1. The Great British Bake Off
The Great British Bake Off is a popular reality competition show where amateur bakers compete against each other in a series of challenges to be crowned the best baker. The show is known for its warm and friendly atmosphere, as well as its mouth-watering desserts. The song “Sugar, Sugar” by The Archies perfectly captures the sweet and comforting vibe of The Great British Bake Off.
2. Derry Girls
Derry Girls is a comedy series set in Northern Ireland during the 1990s. The show follows a group of teenage girls as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence against the backdrop of the Troubles. The song “Zombie” by The Cranberries, a band from Ireland, perfectly complements the show’s nostalgic and rebellious spirit.
3. This Country
This Country is a mockumentary-style comedy series that follows the lives of cousins Kerry and Kurtan as they navigate life in a small village in the Cotswolds. The show is known for its quirky characters and dry humor. The song “Country Roads” by John Denver captures the rural setting and close-knit community of This Country.
4. Detectorists
Of course, no list of shows like The Detectorists would be complete without mentioning the show itself. The Detectorists is a delightful series that celebrates friendship, adventure, and the beauty of the English countryside. The theme song, “Detectorists” by Johnny Flynn, sets the tone for the show with its folksy melody and heartfelt lyrics.
5. Parks and Recreation
Parks and Recreation is a mockumentary-style sitcom that follows the employees of the Parks Department in the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana. The show is known for its quirky characters, witty humor, and heartwarming moments. The song “9 to 5” by Dolly Parton captures the can-do spirit and camaraderie of the Parks and Recreation team.
6. The Office (UK)
The Office is a mockumentary-style sitcom that follows the daily lives of employees at the Wernham Hogg paper company in Slough, England. The show is known for its cringe-worthy humor, awkward moments, and realistic portrayal of office life. The song “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey captures the bittersweet nostalgia of The Office (UK).
7. Schitt’s Creek
Schitt’s Creek is a comedy series that follows the wealthy Rose family as they lose their fortune and are forced to live in a small town they once bought as a joke. The show is known for its sharp wit, heartwarming moments, and quirky characters. The song “Simply the Best” by Tina Turner captures the loving and supportive relationships at the heart of Schitt’s Creek.
8. Friday Night Dinner
Friday Night Dinner is a comedy series that follows the dysfunctional Goodman family as they gather for their weekly dinner on Friday nights. The show is known for its eccentric characters, awkward humor, and chaotic family dynamics. The song “Dinner With Delores” by Prince captures the zany and unpredictable nature of Friday Night Dinner.
9. The IT Crowd
The IT Crowd is a sitcom that follows the employees of the IT department at the fictional Reynholm Industries. The show is known for its geeky humor, absurd situations, and lovable characters. The song “The Internet Is for Porn” from the musical Avenue Q captures the tech-savvy and offbeat humor of The IT Crowd.
10. Fleabag
Fleabag is a comedy-drama series that follows the life of a young woman known only as Fleabag as she navigates love, loss, and family dysfunction in modern-day London. The show is known for its dark humor, emotional depth, and breaking the fourth wall. The song “You’re So Vain” by Carly Simon captures the sharp wit and vulnerability of Fleabag.
11. Gavin & Stacey
Gavin & Stacey is a romantic comedy series that follows the long-distance relationship between Gavin, a man from Essex, England, and Stacey, a woman from Barry, Wales. The show is known for its quirky characters, heartwarming moments, and witty humor. The song “Islands in the Stream” by Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers captures the love and connection between Gavin and Stacey.
12. Ted Lasso
Ted Lasso is a comedy-drama series that follows an American football coach who is hired to coach a struggling English soccer team. The show is known for its uplifting message, heartwarming moments, and lovable characters. The song “You’ll Never Walk Alone” by Gerry & The Pacemakers captures the spirit of teamwork and resilience in Ted Lasso.
13. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is a comedy-drama series that follows the life of Miriam “Midge” Maisel, a housewife who discovers a talent for stand-up comedy in 1950s New York City. The show is known for its sharp wit, glamorous setting, and empowering message. The song “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” by Marilyn Monroe captures the glitz and glamour of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
Common Questions:
1. Is The Detectorists based on a true story?
No, The Detectorists is a fictional comedy series created by Mackenzie Crook.
2. Where was The Detectorists filmed?
The Detectorists was filmed in Suffolk, England.
3. Did The Detectorists win any awards?
Yes, The Detectorists won a BAFTA award for Best Scripted Comedy in 2015.
4. How many seasons of The Detectorists are there?
There are three seasons of The Detectorists.
5. Was The Detectorists popular with critics?
Yes, The Detectorists received critical acclaim for its writing, acting, and cinematography.
6. Is The Detectorists available to stream online?
Yes, The Detectorists is available to stream on Netflix.
7. What is the theme song of The Detectorists?
The theme song of The Detectorists is “Detectorists” by Johnny Flynn.
8. Are there any spin-offs or sequels to The Detectorists?
No, there are no spin-offs or sequels to The Detectorists at this time.
9. Who are the main characters in The Detectorists?
The main characters in The Detectorists are Andy and Lance, played by Mackenzie Crook and Toby Jones, respectively.
10. What is the premise of The Detectorists?
The Detectorists follows the lives of two friends who spend their days metal detecting in the English countryside in search of hidden treasures.
11. What is the tone of The Detectorists?
The Detectorists has a gentle and humorous tone, with moments of warmth and nostalgia.
12. What are some of the recurring themes in The Detectorists?
Some of the recurring themes in The Detectorists include friendship, adventure, and the beauty of nature.
13. How long are the episodes of The Detectorists?
The episodes of The Detectorists are approximately 30 minutes long.
Final Thoughts:
The shows listed above offer a mix of humor, heartwarming moments, and quirky characters that fans of The Detectorists are sure to enjoy. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy bake-off, a chaotic family dinner, or a glamorous comedy-drama, there’s something for everyone on this list. From the charming countryside of Detectorists to the bustling streets of New York City in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, each show offers a unique and entertaining experience. So grab some popcorn, settle in with your favorite blanket, and get ready to laugh, cry, and fall in love with these delightful series.