Are You Being Served? 1972

Overview

Are You Being Served? is a television comedy series that premiered in 1972. The program follows the exploits of various employees working at a fictional London department store known as Grace Brothers. The series is characterized by its use of slapstick, visual gags, sexual innuendo, and double entendres. Much of the humor found within the show serves to parody the British class system. The characters featured in the program are based on stereotypes common to the period, including a store owner who is portrayed as both rich and stingy, as well as the character of Mr. Humphries, who is depicted as effeminate. The show is classified as a comedy and holds a TV-PG rating. It focuses on the interpersonal dynamics and daily activities of the staff within the retail environment of the department store. By utilizing these specific character archetypes and comedic techniques, the series explores themes related to social hierarchy and workplace interactions during its time on air.