Only Fools and Horses is top

The scientists found that the comedic value of a sitcom was determined by multiplying the recognisable qualities of the main character (r)

by their delusions of grandeur (d).

This is added to the verbal wit of the script (v)

and the total is multiplied by the amount of times someone falls over (f).

The difference in social status between the highest and lowest ranking characters is added (s)

and the total is divided by the success of any scheme during the show (a).

 

A SWINDON comic has laughed off research that says there is a scientific formula for the perfect sitcom.

Experts have spent two months creating the rule which they claim can prove whether a show is a hit or a miss. But Amos, aka Brian Newson, of Cricklade Road ­ who is half of Swindon's own comedy duo Dave and Amos ­ doubts it is so straightforward.

"Anybody who could do that would be a millionaire overnight," he said.

"I have written sketches in the past and it's all very easy till you get to the end.

"It's not a bad idea but whether it would work I really don't know."

The researchers, commissioned by satellite channel UKTV Gold, revealed what many people thought they already knew ­ Only Fools And Horses is the funniest British sitcom of all time.

They say they have also discovered why shows like Johnny Vaughan's Orrible and Babes In The Wood, starring Denise Van Outen, were critically panned.

According to the formula, Only Fools And Horses is the funniest sitcom of all time, with 696 points, followed by The Office, Father Ted, Fawlty Towers and Blackadder.

The researchers say their formula could help comedy writers revive the golden days of the sitcom.

Babes In The Wood only scored eight points, whilst Orrible came last with just 6.5 points. Dr Helen Pilcher, who carried out the research, said: "This formula shows why some sitcoms fail to make the grade while others are destined to make us laugh time and time again."

UKTV Gold controller John Keeling said: "Critics have been saying that sitcoms are a dying art-form and recent shows would seem to suggest they have a point.

"We hope that this formula will provide aspiring future writers with all the tools they need to produce the next generation of classic TV comedy."

 

1. Only Fools And Horses (696)

2. The Office (678)

3. Father Ted (564)

4. Fawlty Towers (557)

5. Blackadder (374.5)