Merchant's first sitcom venture sans Gervais will be intriguing for a number of reasons; the most prevalent of which is that it will allow us to explore the notion that's long been mooted that Merchant is perhaps the more talented of the Gervais/Merchant pairing, with many citing Ricky's solo efforts as evidence to support this (Derek often being used as a stick to beat him with).
American cousins! And other Americans to whom I am not related! Ever found yourself at a tea party - the British, not crazed lunatic Republican, kind - and suddenly been at a loss for words when the topic of conversation moves, inevitably, to British television comedy? Fear not. For here is a handy guide to What To Say in such a situation - or indeed, when conversing with Brits in the Huffington Post Comedy Club comments. The following 20 pointers are intended to make you blend in with British people...