Ricky Gervais’ series *After Life* has been voted the best British modern comedy in a recent Radio Times poll. The show, which Gervais wrote, directed, and starred in, received the top spot in a ranking focused on comedies aired since 2010.

*After Life* aired from 2019 through its third and final season in 2022. The black comedy follows Tony, a misanthropic local newspaper reporter played by Gervais, as he struggles to cope with the death of his wife, Lisa, from cancer. The character contemplates ending his own life but ultimately decides to channel his grief into lashing out at the world, all while finding solace in the companionship of his dog, Brandy. The series also features performances from Kerry Godliman as Lisa, alongside Diane Morgan, Mandeep Dhillon, Joe Wilkinson, and Tom Basden.

Gervais attributed much of the series’ success to its availability on Netflix, saying it resonated with many viewers because of its relatable themes of loss and grief. He recounted how a friend working with the Samaritans urged him to handle the subject of suicide with care, which influenced his approach to the role. Reflecting on the final episode, Gervais highlighted the emotional moment where Tony confronts his grief by Lisa’s graveside and comes to terms with her passing.

*After Life* had previously won Best Comedy at the National Television Awards in both 2021 and 2022. In the Radio Times poll, it was followed by *Detectorists*, a BBC series written by and starring Mackenzie Crook, who also appeared alongside Toby Jones. The show centers on two friends on a countryside quest for historical artefacts using metal detectors.

Other comedies featured in the top rankings included BBC’s *Ghosts* in third place, and Peter Kay’s *Car Share* in fourth. The poll excluded long-running classic series such as *Only Fools and Horses* and *Fawlty Towers*, focusing solely on programs debuting from 2010 onward.

Additional entries in the top ten included *Inside No 9*, *Motherland*, *W1A*, *This Country*, *Derry Girls*, and *Friday Night Dinner*.