The Thick of It (2005): episodes, history and where to watch

AT A GLANCE

The Thick of It first went out in May 2005 on BBC Four. It ran until 2012, with 4 series and 21 episodes so far. Where it streams changes often, so check the official services before paying for one.

comedy
politics
british
More from the 2000s

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Why it is worth your time

Malcolm Tucker, the government’s terrifying spin doctor, swears his way through Whitehall. Armando Iannucci’s improvised-feeling satire; the language is extremely strong.

The details

First broadcast: 19 May 2005
Originally on: BBC Four
On air: 2005–2012
Series: 4
Episodes: 21
Typical length: 31 minutes
Genres: Comedy
First episode: “Episode 1”

Watching it the official way

Older programmes move between broadcasters, streaming services and DVD releases as rights are sold and resold. Paying the rights holder keeps archives alive and pays the people who made them.

The BritCast TV library changes with sources and rights, so we never promise a title before checking. Ask us and we will look, or try a day free and search for yourself.

The Thick of It: quick answers

When did The Thick of It start?

On 19 May 2005, on BBC Four.

How many episodes of The Thick of It are there?

21 had been broadcast by 14 October 2026, across 4 series. The last aired in 2012.

Where can I watch The Thick of It now?

Rights to older programmes move between services and channels; check BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4 and the main streaming services, or buy it on DVD or digitally.

Dates and episode counts from TVmaze (2026-10-14), CC BY-SA 4.0. Artwork © its owners, shown only to identify the programme.