Watch Rising Damp

Rising Damp is a classic British sitcom that aired from 1974 to 1978, starring Leonard Rossiter, Don Warrington, Frances de la Tour, and Richard Beckinsale. It is set in Rigsby's traditional Victorian lodging house, where a diverse group of characters find themselves living under one roof.

The show revolves around Rigsby, the stingy and sleazy landlord of the boarding house, who always tries to find ways to rip off his tenants while trying to woo Miss Jones, his sophisticated but uninterested tenant. Rossiter's portrayal of Rigsby is impeccable, showing off his comedic timing and acting skills in every scene.

Warrington plays the role of Philip Smith, a West Indian medical student who is charming, calculating, and constantly outsmarting Rigsby. He is often the target of Rigsby's prejudices, but he always manages to turn the situation around to his advantage.

Frances de la Tour is Miss Ruth Jones, a liberal and educated tenant who possesses a dry wit and a penchant for sarcastic remarks. She resists Rigsby's romantic advances and makes it clear that she is not interested in him, which leads to hilarious interactions and conflicts. Her character is smart, independent, and stands up to Rigsby's chauvinistic attitudes.

Beckinsale rounds up the cast as Alan, a naive and innocent tenant who is often the victim of Rigsby's scams and Miss Jones's sharp comments. Alan is lovable, but his lack of intelligence gets him into trouble with Rigsby and the other tenants.

The show is full of witty dialogue, slapstick humor, and memorable characters. It is not only a comedy show but also a commentary on social norms and British society in the 1970s. It tackled issues such as racism, sexism, classism, and prejudice in a subtle and nuanced way, making the audience think while entertaining them.

Each episode is filled with misunderstandings and chaos, but the actors always manage to keep the show grounded in reality. The chemistry between the actors is undeniable, and every episode feels like watching a family interact.

The set design and costumes are also noteworthy for their attention to detail, capturing the essence of the times and adding to the show's charm.

Rising Damp has become a cult classic in Britain and has been voted as one of the best British sitcoms of all time. It has spawned a film adaptation, a stage play, and has been referenced in numerous other British shows.

In conclusion, Rising Damp is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys classic British comedies. It has stood the test of time and is still as funny and relevant as it was in the 1970s. The talented cast, witty writing, and clever dialogue make it a timeless classic that will continue to entertain audiences for generations to come.

Rising Damp is a series that ran for 4 seasons (28 episodes) between September 1, 1974 and on Amazon Addon