"The Armando Iannucci Shows" 2001

The Armando Iannucci Shows is a series of eight programmes focused on specific themes relating to human nature and existentialism, around which Iannucci would weave a series of surreal sketches and monologues. Recurring themes in the episodes are the superficiality of modern culture, our problems communicating with each other, the mundane nature of working life and feelings of personal inadequacy and social awkwardness. Several characters also make repeat appearances in the shows, including the East End thug, who solves every problem with threats of violence; Hugh, an old man who delivers surreal monologues about what things were like in the old days; and Iannucci's barber, who is full of nonsensical anecdotes.

Cast:

Armando Iannucci
Himself 

Stephen Mangan
Television Executive #4 

Alan Ford
Alan The East End Thug 

Tony Gardner
Television Executive #1 

Darren Higham
Television Executive #2 

Melanie Hudson
Television Executive #3