Watch Eurotrash

Eurotrash was a hugely popular, irreverent and sometimes controversial late-night TV show that ran for 16 years from 1993 to 2016 on Channel 4 in the UK. Described as a 'cultural time capsule' by one reviewer, it was a unique blend of sex, celebrity, satire and stereotypes, as well as a showcase for some of the most bizarre and obscure elements of European culture.

At the heart of the show were its two presenters, Antoine de Caunes and Jean-Paul Gaultier, whose chemistry and anarchic humour helped to define its style. They were joined in later series by Swedish model and actress Victoria Silvstedt, who brought a touch of glamour and sophistication to proceedings. Together, they explored the weird and wonderful world of Europe, challenging and celebrating its quirks and contradictions.

The format of the show was loose and free-flowing, with no set structure or agenda. Each episode featured a mix of sketches, music, interviews and clips from around Europe, all united by a sense of playful subversion. Some of the recurring segments included 'The Eurotrash Guide', a tongue-in-cheek travelogue of different European countries, 'The Eurotrash News', a round-up of bizarre and amusing news stories from around the continent, and 'The Mr/Miss Dog-Europe Contest', a live competition to find Europe's most pampered pooch.

One of the show's most memorable features was its approach to sexuality and nudity. Although it was never pornographic or explicit, Eurotrash pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable on mainstream TV, with regular segments featuring nude or semi-nude models, sex advice from 'Dr. Tatiana' and interviews with porn stars and exotic dancers. There were also various recurring characters who added a touch of sauciness to proceedings, such as the 'Crazy, Naked Italian Guy' and the 'Belgian Mannequin Shagging Society'.

Another key aspect of the show was its celebration of diversity and difference. Eurotrash often featured subcultures and lifestyles that were overlooked or marginalized by the mainstream, such as drag queens, fetishists, anarchists and performance artists. It was a platform for creative and unconventional voices, and helped to break down stereotypes and misconceptions about people from different countries and backgrounds.

Although Eurotrash was often criticized for being vulgar, tasteless or offensive, it had a loyal following of fans who appreciated its irreverence and wit. It had a cult status among young adults and students, and spawned countless imitators and parodies. Its influence can still be felt in popular culture today, with a host of TV shows and online videos adopting a similar style of irreverent satire and eclectic mix of content.

Eurotrash was a unique and unforgettable TV show, one that captured the quirky and eccentric spirit of Europe in a way that no other programme has managed to match. Whether you loved it or hated it, it was impossible to ignore its impact and legacy, and it remains a cultural touchstone for many people who grew up watching it.