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My book won't be arriving for a couple of weeks due to the shipping time, but hearing the live feed, and then you guys going through the book has made it even more exciting. Can't wait. I really enjoyed the launch and I think having Charlotte as host made it even more special. They were very inclusive, asking her about her experience. I loved that she felt welcomed into the 'family' and missed the green room. I imagine that making the programme during lockdown made the unit even tighter and feeling like they were doing something to allow people a little escapism during a very bleak time would have helped this. When you mentioned that Tom Kingsley had worked on Stath Lets Flats and may have met Kiel there, I was thinking that all of the non 6 main characters had appeared on that show, though Charlotte and Lolly were only in on̈e episode each. It may have been a casting pool for him. Though Katy and Lolly were both in Horrible Histories too. Also, Matt saying that they were expected to do an Historic show, I had also heard in the past that part of the decision to play historical characters was partly to do with their love of dressing up 😂. I was surprised and delighted to see part of the pilot. They had said that this would never see the light of day. Thanks again for an excellent podcast. I'm really looking forward to hearing Series 5.

I wasn't watching last night- so just going on what you have to say..... (I also won't get the book until my birthday next month) It was interesting to hear that Matt felt they were sort of expected to go down the 'history' route for this project because of what they had done before. I think he must have been meaning in terms of what they'd done together as a group- because each of their individual projects over the years have been across a wide variety of genres- mainly comedy, but not with a history angle. Looking quickly through their IMDb entries from before Ghosts - Simon was heavily involved in the Paddington movies and was in Alan Partridge, Matt did The Wrong Mans with James Cordon, and had a small but recurring part in Gaving and Stacey, as well as a recurring part in The Split. Ben has done a lot of TV work - he was in The Thick of It, and There She Goes, as well as a lot of other stuff. Jim was in Broadchurch too- as a far from funny character! Regarding the Pilot, I was really surprised that they showed bits from it, as they had always stressed that it was not for public consumption. Fascinating to get a glimpse into what they tried- but I think what they arrived at in the end was much tighter and more effective, and allowed them to look at the more emotional aspects. Thanks for the run through of the book- It's really whetted my appetite. I'll not put my name into the draw, as I have a copy coming in the middle of next month. I'm sure someone out there will appreciate your generous offer.

Albert the Pug sounds like a fun fellow, I love old dogs, and old Pugs are just so charming. I didn't sign up for the live stream, but I did order the new book, which should be here by December 9th. Slow boat mail I guess, and our mail over here is brutally slow. But it sounds like it'll be worth the wait. How lovely that you are giving away the extra book! Obviously, with mine on the way I don't need to win one, but if no one else enters I'll go "behind the scenes" and pass it on to the Louisville Free Public Library here. No, the falling-in-the-hole dynamic on the US Ghosts isn't Ring-related. Our first exposure to falling into a Well happened last season when one of the regular characters fell into a literal Well and was trapped, as she couldn't climb up the walls. The situation was resolved in a very emotionally charged episode that was prewarned with a trigger alert for sensitive viewers, as we learned how one of our main characters died. I don't want to spoil the episode since you haven't watched but it was very well done and a clever solution. At that point, we were then made aware of a previous "stuck in a hole" event where a Puritan ghost named Patience was lost in the dirt as four characters attempted to escape from another hole. Patience is back in this new series now vengeful, angry, and has a special ghost power that is particularly spooky. Looking forward to series 5 with you both!

What a lovely way to spend my Sunday afternoon- sitting in the conservatory listening to your podcast with The Book open on my lap, to follow along! My cat is intrigued by Shelley's contributions. Loved all the singing by the way! The book really is a work of art - so many beautiful pages, and extra insights into our favourite ghosts! I love how all the handwriting and printed extracts are perfectly rendered in the correct style for each character or period. I havent ever bought the audiobook, but think I may now do so, as an extra way of enjoying The Book. I have heard Robins history of the world, and Fanny's letter to the owners of the Titanic from the live event. When I was young the Scouts used to do a ' Gang Show' each year. It was a collection of songs and funny sketches - a bit like an old fashioned Variety Show. Troops in WW2 used to put on very similar shows, with everyone doing their 'Party Piece'. I find the last entry in The Captains diary so sad, as he is hoping they will meet again at a party at Button House....and if you have seen Series 5, that is so poignant 😢 The Pat quote about not giving an 8 year old a lethal weapon is from Perfect Day, when the boy who shot him is speaking to him by the tree stump, asking forgiveness. Quick dip into Caroline's History Corner: Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens were the most fashionable place in London for evening walking and listening to music in the open air. Its from this, amd similar, places that we get 'Promenade Concerts' - most usually called The Proms. Obviously today they are indoors at the Albert Hall, but they were first intended for a promenading audience. I love the book - it's so much more than one might have expected. As you say you don't NEED to have it, but if you love the show it gives you so much extra depth!

Phew, Bananas is the word! Firstly who did you dogsit? Breed and name, please. Do you have an extra book? Maybe do a raffle? I did enjoy the book, I, like you, found the cursive written bits a bit difficult. I didn't realize there was an audiobook! Highlights: I enjoyed reviewing the ghost rules (the US version has several more rules you've yet to explore, one of which is falling in a hole (like an old well, which is inescapable! You cannot climb the walls, and you can't dig down, how do you get out?). I liked best the written QandA with each of the ghosts and I adore the nice portraits of each of our characters, if I were one to destroy a book, I'd cut them out and frame them. The written account of Mary's demise is stunning. I will keep this book...it's easily a 9/10. Our US Ghosts premiering this past week makes me long for my BBC Ghosts family.

Echoing Caroline's sentiment about Robin being a favourite, but then find myself remembering great line deliveries from others so rank all the other characters (including the livings) equally JUST behind him. I think one of the strengths of Ghosts is the casting, Obviously, there is the SIx Idiots, but also Lolly, Katy, Charlotte and Kiel, plus other recurring characters like Obi, Barclay and Annie plus some amazing guest actors. I don't think there is a weak performance among them. Regarding Larry's acting 2 different parts, we have seen small teases of him talking to himself but will have a major storyline next season involving them both together.

The Comic Relief Special was lovely, you are correct, Kylie Minogue isn't as big over in the US and I had no clue who she was calling on the phone for identity verification. Fanny's mistrust of the Australians has been paralleled on the US Ghosts as our Fanny equivalent, Hetty, has a similar loathing for the Irish. This whole skit was very well done and I found myself wishing for more. I feel like Allison and Kylie, and Mike and Tess would remain ongoing friends. Wouldn't it be great to have another Comic Relief Special set in the future when they all get together for dinner in Button House? I just got the BBC Ghosts book from Amazon so I'm thrilled to have you reviewing it in a couple weeks. What is this livestream of which you speak...a new Ghosts book? Did I miss these details in a past podcast? More details, please. Please give Shelley a soft treat, dental visits are never fun.

I love this little sketch. It's very much stand alone, but gives all the regular characters their moment. Having trawled the internet there is no mention anywhere of who wrote the episode - nothing. I guess it must have been a team effort by the whole gang. It's worth noting that Fanny's view of Australia is based entirely on the fact that it was a penal colony - the last convict ship from the UK sailed when she was about 14 years old, and so during her lifetime, most of the settlers there were ex convicts. Hence her remarks about keeping an eye on the silverware. I'm always surprised how little known Kylie is in the US - worldwide she is a huge star (even if Robin disagrees) having sold about 70 million records worldwide, but for some reason never made it big there. She's had a few hits, but nothing like elsewhere. On Feedback section: Spoonerisms are when you transpose the initial letters of two words like saying 'a well boiled icicle' instead of 'well oiled bicycle'. Eggcorns are when someone mishears/ uses a well known phrase, but it still makes sense - like saying ' off my own back' instead of 'off my own bat'. A third linguistic mistake is the 'Mondegreen' where someone mishears lyrics to a song. The name comes from a folk song that goes "For they have killed my Lord, and laid him on the green" which was misheard as "For they have killed my Lord and Lady Mondegreen". Going back to favourite characters- I picked Robin for all the reasons we discussed. But I think one of the strengths of this show is that every character is brilliant and brings so much to the show. Thanks for another series of podcasts, and discussions oof this great show! Looking forward to The Book and Series 5 when you get to it!

A couple more for Tash's collection: 'It's a doggy dog world' 'I could care less' and my personal favourite 'casting nasturtiums'

US viewer here, too, and I had no idea what a pantomime was, in this context. It's so fun! We have skit shows here, like Saturday Night Live, but it's not anything like this version of Cinderella! The Captain as the Fairy Godmother warms my heart and, during my first watch through, cemented this as my newest comfort show. The scene with Pat watching his family Christmas after he died makes me tear up every time. I lost my dad when I was little. The scene where Pat gets to see his grandchild makes me ugly cry, but this scene gives me a sense of peace for Pat. Series feedback: The best, most dynamic of the four we've seen so far. It's really interesting to me how the writers can show the character development of ghosts who are (in some cases) hundreds and hundreds of years old! You'd think they would be stuck with their personalities the way they were when they died.

As a viewer in the US, I can say I am not familiar at all with Pantomime. I agree with Caroline, the lower IMDb rating may be because viewers are not familiar with this artform. I, having no clue, can only offer that this in no way affected my rating. What a great episode! The Ghosts complex and charming interactions really make this episode shine. Robin and Pat, the Captain and Kitty...just brilliant. Left wondering still with Ghost body functions. In our US Ghosts the Ghosts definitely have sex. A lot of sex. And masturbation using a washing machine is explored in a way that makes you pretty certain that it is "fullfilling". Anyhow, now I'm wondering do they go to the bathroom room to relieve themselves and if it's just nothing, why would you bother and not just go where you stand? I have so many functional questions. And which spice girl would I be? I would be Morose Spice I think.😁 Series feedback: definitely the strongest season, they've found their footing and are obviously so comfortable with each other. While I love each of the characters for different reasons, the Captain is still my favorite, but they are all endearing in their own ways. If I had to be in a house with ghosts, I can't think of a better, more amusing group of spirits to live with.

Return of Caroline's History Corner: Bear clarification: Wild bears were not around in the British Isles in the 1500's but there were bears in zoos and travelling shows at that time. Sadly 'Bear baiting' where Bears were set upon by groups of dogs was seen as an appropriate form of entertainment. People will bet on anything! The Puritans banned the practice in the 1640's - but from the point of view that it was too much fun (think of the menfolk of Annie the Ghost's time), rather than any thought for the bears wellbeing. It was finally outlawed permanently in 1835, although it wasn't a popular 'sport' by then anyway. To briefly address the 'bodily functions' discussion- remember we see Kitty be sick with excitement at some point- all the ghosts are surprised by this, but it is another example of bodily functions that shouldn't really happen but clearly do in some way. 'Dandini' is Prince Charming's friend in the pantomime world (We named a cat after him when I was a child as we'd just seen Cinderella at the theatre, so I remember that one). In Cinderella the 'Dame' is usually the stepmother, and the 'Ugly Sisters' are often also played by men. Of course, Prince Charming would usually be played by a woman, just to complete the subversion. Luke is correct, the British tradional 'Pantomime' grew out of the Italian 'Comedia del Arte' and there are lots of crossovers in style. The 'modern' tradition started in the 1700's, with stars of the popular 'Music Hall' joining in from the mid 1800's. I really love this episode, because it gives us lots of little character moments for each of our main cast, as well as being a happy Christmas story overall. I particularly love The Captain's little 'wand' sound effects. I don't usually score- but this one is absolutely a 10. I wonder how much the relatively low IMDb rating is influenced by non UK based viewers who are not familiar with the British Pantomime? If you know, it's all there to relish, but if you don't recognise all the little 'set pieces' it might come across as just 'silly'. I mean- it IS silly- but it's all there for a reason, and we culturally recognise all the little bits, even if like Mike we don't enjoy a pantomime ourselves. Series Feedback: I can't order the episodes as this series is so strong overall. I think the Christmas Special smashes it ourt of the park for the top spot- but the others are all stonkingly good. I think this is the best series of the whole show - there are still some great bits to come, but I think they peaked here. My favourite character is Robin, because he is so intriguing. His outlook on life is both simple and also based on centuries of soaking up new knowledge. On the one hand his actual life experiences were very limited, but on the other he is fascinated by what he learns by watching and listening to everyone that he comes across. Also Larry Rickard's characterisiation of him, and his delivery of some of the funniest lines in the whole show is so brilliant!

In Australia I knew the game Mike and Alison played as Celebrity Head Those sort of mixed up phrases are called eggcorns if they still make a similar sense such as Alzheimer's disease becoming old-timers' disease. One I always remember from Friends is Joey calling a moot point a moo point, explaining it's like a cow's opinion, it doesn't matter. Robin's wisdom has been a theme throughout the show. In the first episode, he suggests the Cap and Fanny switch rooms to stop the screaming and jumping. And of course he always thrashes Julian at chess, even though he only learnt it from Julian, has weird names for the pieces and goes dooka-dooka when moving pieces. Regarding bodily functions, next season when Kitty thinks she's pregnant we see Robin counting something on his fingers and then proclaiming ghosts can't get pregnant.

My favourite episode of all. Definitely a 10. I was even laughing out loud, then tearing up listening to your podcast, which was awkward as I was on a bus. Had to keep looking out the window and hoping no one noticed. Pantomimes weren't really a big thing growing up in Australia, but we went to see Dick Whitington when I worked in England in the 90s with Bill Oddie as Sarah the cook. It was FUN! Even though we were the only adults in the audience not accompanied by a responsible child. I loved the moments with Pat. Jim Howick really got to show off his acting chops. And the scenes with the Captain and Kitty. He was really starting to find himself behind the gruff military posturing. And Robin as always was the wisest of the gang....even with a face like a horses bum. I think Julian should really have known that Alison wouldn't have given Pat a 'bluey'. Just wishful thinking? Having the plague ghosts as the audience was brilliant, and apparently the actors had fun doing it. They said a lot was ad libbed. And in interview they were all chuffed to find an authentic 80s video recorder to film Pat's Xmas memories. So much to love. And I think we all saw the comic relief special on You Tube. Its been up there for a while. I laughed at Fanny's reaction to Australians.

This episode is probably one of my least favorites of the season, but this season is my favorite of the 5 I think, so it's still a really great episode! I loved the red herrings, particularly poor, sweet Humphrey's portrait head being cut off again. Also, I always recommend the bloopers, of any show really! I think the Ghosts bloopers are great in particular because the several of the actors are the writers and you see a bit of the process!

I have ordered the new book and livestream of the event through FANE. It costs a little more for overseas delivery, and the book will take longer to get here, but hoping the livestream works. I found the link on one of the Facebook groups. I loved all the red herrings in this episode about the cause and location of the fire. And it worked well as an end of season episode. The closure of that theme. I wondered at the time if Thomas's conversion to veganism, and Mike's description of vegan eggs looking like grey porridge may have been Larry teasing Mat for being vegan. Much like the teasing about Ben's knees. All meant with love of course!

An Aussie here who loves Babe and regularly quotes "That'll do, pig" I think Mike gets a bad rap for the Butt Ho Hoodie. He wanted something simple but Obi wanted to go flash, wrap-around text. I wish we'd seen more of the pile of things Alison had hidden from Mike in the basement, when she wanted to hide the bear. I know there were 2 guitar-like instruments. This episode is high ranking for me, at least an 8.5 or a 9 - plenty of Robin and some interaction with the plaguers. Alison and Mike and the bear. I really enjoy Kitty's story with the 'slang' and Pat and Thomas's discovery of veganism. As for Julian's attempts at helping, I've just realised that in the previous episode he was literally helping Alison against Barclay, but maybe the other ghosts were too busy with Maddocks to notice I remember there was lots of speculation about the deaths of Cap and Kitty, as they were the only ones we didn't know with no outward evidence of wounds. This may be why their deaths were kept for the last season

I think the term you were searching for is weather vane? I, too, thought Robin was smelling the bear when he was sniffing in the initial scene. Such a good episode, now we know how Robin met his demise. I'd think you could clean taxidermied bears with dry shampoo, although they probably get dusty rather than dirty. I like Caroline's suggestion of a blow dryer. I got to wondering when bears were populous in the UK, it looks like they've been extinct for at least 1500 years, so you wonder where this bear was harvested...or at least I did. Then I wondered how the basement ghosts would have known about the different bears...grizzly, brown, black? Aren't Grizzly Bears specific to the US and Canada? How would they have known about them? I'd give this episode an 8, agreeing with you both. Can't believe we've come to the last episode of this season already!

Out of interest, I Googled how to clean a taxidermy bear. The AI overview suggested regular dusting, and annual wiping with a damp cloth with washing up liquid in water, and then blotting dry with a kitchen towel, and use of a hairdryer to fluff up the fur afterwards. I'm not sure I trust the AI though, as it also gives instructions on how to clean the horns and antlers- and I'm pretty sure bears don't generally present with either of these! Another good solid episode - and I love the payoff from the lightning strikes in the first episode of the next series. The Christmas Episode to come is one of the all time best episodes of the the whole show in my opinion- so looking forward to that!

Thank you, Caroline and Maryanne for confirming that Humphrey's head scene for me. I was beginning to think I'd imagined it 😂 I felt very sorry for Maddocks in this episode. He'd told them that he was traumatised from his death, and they still harassed him. Very insensitive. Especially Kitty. She was really ghoulish. At least their recent experience of Mary's departure gave Robyn the perfect story to let him escape.

I've finally caught up! Started listening to the podcast a few weeks ago and it's been great to hear your opinions on the show. I feel so bad for poor Maddox! He was being so polite and you could tell he was overwhelmed by all the new personalities! 😅 Barclay is so slimy. The writers did a great job of making us loathe him.

Barkley...what a mook. Stealing Mike and Allison's guests! Well played in the end though. I always like it when he gets his comeuppance. I do think we've seen the pictorial ghostboard before. If I were Mike I'd like to have that as a reference. And our introduction to Maddox is so well done, the ruse of Robin insisting he's been sucked off when really, he's just had enough of the Button House gang. Can you imagine how overwhelming they would be if you've been bumbling around in a field alone more or less for a century? Series four is really well done, I'd give this episode an 8.5.

I think series 4 is the strongest series overall - several really good episodes. I think it's really hard to have a strong 'Mike' episode, as this plot strand usually has to go on alongside any ghost related plot because he can't interact directly with them. The exceptions being The Grey Lady, because his 'fake ghost' stuff is taking place alongside the real ghost stuff, and Bump in the Night' which has Mike and the Ghosts trying to communicate about the burglars. Mike's side plots are often very funny in their own right though.

We've seen Mike's ghost crib sheet back in season 2, when he realises Fanny shows up in photos, which attracts all the ghost hunters. We've seen a Fanny painting in the last Xmas ep - Alison damages it and tries to fix up then ends up having to do one of Thomas, which causes the Plaguers to become enamoured with him. I love Barclay's thought process with the B&B. At first he dismisses it as pin money (remember, he owns the neighbouring village), then realises he could be on a nice little earner with $200 a night. His defence to Alison/Annabel - Everyone needs pins. Yes he was 'defeated' in season 1 - Julian knew about his secret Fiji account that even his wife did not know about.

In answer to Alison's callout about Mike's 'Nuddy-run' in The Hardest Word. She is definitely correct that Humphrey's Head does ask if someone was clapping. It seems to be an out-take though, as I've just watched both 'runs' for research purposes, and it's not there. I'm sorry to hear of Tash's loss of her father. This must have been a hard watch in many ways. Luke's Googling seems to have been correct- Operation Desert Storm was a US led operation, developing out of Operation Desert Shield, although the British Military were an integral part of this. So in this case I think Julian is mis-remembering (or mis-representing) his part in naming it. I agree with Tash that if people are lucky enough to survive to a really great age, the inevitability of death of people they have been close to just increases, and one becomes more philosophical about loss. I remember my parents who both lived into their 90's noting that they'd been to yet another funeral, and that there was no-one left from their families and friends. We do see William briefly in one episode, getting 'moved on' after sharing a joke with Robin. I think Luke's suggestion that he is Norman or similar is about right.

This opening is quite similar to the previous ep, in that we are right into the action, with last week's aftermath of the unseen telling off. Regarding never intending a character to leave, this would fit as it is about the tedium of the afterlife where they resort to bickering. Although it's interesting that they already introduce the concept of being sucked off in season 2, with Annie in the Thomas Thorne Affair, so they could easily write Katy out with existing lore. We've seen the similarities between Pat and the Cap last season in Woodworm Men, when they go camping. Pat can actually pitch a tent using knots, whereas the Cap doesn't know the names of things, but eventually earns some badges from Pat. The levels mentioned by Pat and Kitty are: Gate of Herbert - Frank Herbert wrote a little book called Dune (although that isn't the one shown) Wizard Larsson with the dragon tattoo - Yes you are correct Castle of Tolstoy - Leo Tolstoy wrote War and Peace, Anna Karenina Ludlum - Robert Ludlum wrote the Jason Bourne books Orb of Holcroft - this one is harder as we don't see a shot of the library when this is mentioned, but most likely the 18th Century poet Thomas Holcroft Kitty mentions Mary has become a ghost ghost after moving on, a term she has previously used in S2E1 The Grey Lady. Ghost hunters claim to detect activity in an area where Kitty is, but she doesn't seem to realise she is a ghost so gets scared about ghost ghosts haunting her. Fanny mentions Alison should wear black for 2 years, which would fit for a widow mourning her husband in Edwardian times, which is interesting how Fanny sees the relationship (The next longest mourning period is 6 months for a parent or a child) The entertainer is credited as Tony Vanoli but I don't think this is ever mentioned, perhaps this was cut. Of the stars Robin names at the end, we meet William briefly next season in ep 4. We see them in a castle sharing a joke, then Will gets sucked off. After an indeterminate time of waiting, a young Humphrey and Sophie turn up.

Firstly, I'm so sorry for the loss of your father last year, Tash.💔 This episode actually made me cry...more than once. Mary was a great character and I was truly sorry to see her sucked off. The birthday party was a nice distraction and kept us from sinking into sadness and I enjoyed how the episode wound around the glee of the party and the heartbreak of losing Mary. Robin's wisdom at the eulogy is so sweet. and you come to realize he must have seen so very many of his friends sucked off. How do you process that over the millennium? In the last scene where they are assigning Mary a star...more tears. Such a good episode. This one was a 10 for me. Vol Au Vents are single-bite puff pastries with some filling,, either savory or sweet (think pizza rolls). And I swear I remember the episode where Mike runs through Button House naked and Humphrey asks if someone is clapping...was that in the first season? I'll need to rewatch it to confirm. I think a lot of kids have past life memories, they fade with age and self-awareness, but tiny kids are often open to exploring this if you ask them the correct questions. Someone once shared with me that this is why all these newborn baby photos have expressions on their faces basically saying "Oh no, not this again". I've also heard that birthmarks often are carryovers that were fatal wounds from a past life.

I enjoyed this episode, Mike is really quite a lovely man, with endless patience for his invisible roommates and Allison. The Sorry Song had me rolling, "Being so not right will keep us all night" And the bit with Thomas rapping off script. So well done! Just a lovely episode, with lots of feels. I'd give it a 9, and for once we all agree.

I think you are right about the practical reason why Mary is very much separate from the others for most of the episode being that she was unavailable for all the filming. I have heard some of the cast commenting that they were very grateful that Katy Wix was able to give them half a series before Mary moved on so that they could properly complete Mary's story arc. I too think the Sorry Song is a highlight of the whole series. Very Horrible Histories! Somewhere on UA-cam you can see a version of this scene from Mike's point of view (I assume it is taken from a behind the scenes DVD extra) It's quite funny to realise what his life is often like. He is a very patient man.....

Ah, good episode. I love the Annie thread, and her relationship with Mary, helping Mary find her tongue and trash-talking the living was so funny. Annie's sudden sucking off was stunning. Mary must have been so lonely without her. Mike's cultish friends coming in was mirrored in a US Ghosts episode when an entire cult moved into the mansion. UK Ghosts is much different than US Ghosts, the humor difference is striking...but one thing to consider, US Ghosts only has 22 minutes to air their episode...not a lot of time to ramble and lie in the field like the Captain and Kitty. I loved that part of this episode. And the pet cemetery! I wonder why there aren't more ghost animals hanging around? I nearly passed out hearing Luke give this episode a 10, Tash too! It was a solid 9 in my book.

I'm always amazed that they brought Annie in for a tiny part in the Thomas Thorne Affair in Series 2, and that we don't get to see her (or even reference her) again until series 4. That's a long lead in! It does make me wonder if in an original plan the Annie story might have been slated for somewhere in Series 3, and then for whatever reason it was decided it would work better here. You were pondering whether parents wath Ghosts with younger kids. It seems from posts on the internet that the only concern parents have had is whether or not the Christmas Episode with Nick the homeless person calls into question the existence of Father Christmas ( which it skates near to, but doesn't cross the line). It seems a lot of people watch this series with their kids. A pretty good episode all told I think. I don't score, but if I did this would be high, because of all the ghost character stuff.

Kitty points out that she liked Thomas' poem about eggs, even though she doesn't like eating eggs, a reference to the very first episode, when she was going to give a talk at food club about the first time she ate an egg. I'm also surprised at Luke's score. I think this season is the strongest overall (I may be biased, being a Robin fan and the season starts and ends the main run with Robin focused eps) , and while the first ep of each season suffers from having to set up the arc for the season (except for S3 The Bone Plot), there is still plenty to appreciate in this offering

I cannot believe Luke gave this episode a 5! Apparently going on holiday makes one a ruthless critic? I thought it was well done, with lots of plotlines, Thomas and Kitty and his Plague groupies. Pat and Mary discussing the concept of holidays. Julian and Fanny haunting the new lodgers in the guest house. Was it full of belly laughs? No. Was it well done, why yes, yes it was. Definitely an 8 for me.

Welcome back! Thanks for revisiting my feedback from last time x Happy Holidays is a good series opener- there's lots to enjoy, without there being any one huge hook. There are no specific 'weak points' that would bring it down for me. I love Kitty as Thomas's PA - and in fact the whole 'Thomas as a Celebrity' strand. I also love Pat's appreciation of Mary's simple life. (I'm with Tash- pack everything you can think of to make life on holiday simple! So much stress when you suddenly find yourself in need of a Thing you didn't think of packing!) History/ Linguistic note: 'Riband' is an archaic name for 'ribbon'. I've always assumed you pronounce the 'd' at the end. The earliest known use of the term is in the Middle Ages.

S3 was the first to be affected by Covid restrictions (S2 wrapped just before covid) which limited the use of the plaguers in a cramped area of the cellar. You only see a couple plaguers looking at the painting of Thomas. We get more of them in S4 up in the main house.

How am I going to survive July without my Luke and Tash fix? I left feedback last week, did you not see it on the UA-cam channel? When BBC Ghosts is wrapped please please continue with our US Ghost episodes, I'd love to hear your take on our version. Series 3 was overall excellent, the ghosts are firing on all cylinders and Allison and Mike are quite comfortably ensconced at Button House. The walk through the park was stellar, it's been brought up in the US Ghosts series, that walking in a big city is like the Thriller video with ghosts everywhere. Allison only gets one lonely soldier...and Lucy. No question where this is going. I love the whole storyline of Murder She Wrote-ing the truth about Lucy. Begone evil demon! The improv dining scene was lovely. Great episode, I'd give it a 9.

"Whose Line is it Anyway" was originally a British Show which successfully transferred to the US - and has in fact become more popular there than it was here. Regarding Julian's underpants - I think that in the fiction he doesn't have anything on- when he bends over by Mike's bed in 'Bump in the Night' the other ghosts wince and turn away, implying they all got an eyeful. However, in actual fact, not surprisingly, Simon Farnaby is wearing underpants- they are briefly on show in S1 Ep 2 where he and the Captain are discovering the TV, whilst trying to haunt the Coopers. I love the scene between Mike and Julian. Up to this point we have mainly seen the mischievous and selfish side to Julian, and here he is helping Mike for no personal benefit. It's also a rare chance for Mike to interact with at least one of the ghosts in a positive way. The scene with The Captain and Kitty is also lovely to see. The improv meal at the end is another great moment of togetherness. Series 3 review: Surprisingly, going through these episodes again with you, I find that for me Series 3 is probably weaker than Series 2. That's not to say it was bad- and the first time through I certainly didn't find my love of the show waning at all, but looking at the episodes from both series, I definitely find Series 2 stronger. Part of my issue I guess is that I never really liked the Lucy story arc. Again, nothing wrong with it as such, but I felt the outcome was fairly obvious from the start, and I was more interested in the Ghost family than the Lucy arc. Episode order- worst to best: 7. I love Lucy 6. He Came 5. A Lot to Take In 4. Part of the Family 3 The Bone Plot 2. Woodworm Men 1. Something to share I see I'm not a massive fan of the Christmas episodes - I remember I outraged you last series by putting the Christmas episode last. I enjoy them well enough in Christmas Day as a bit of post festivity entertainment- but watching them at any other times, they aren't my favourites (apart from the next series one- but that's jumping ahead!)

Seriously, you two, have never watched "I Love Lucy", the Lucille Ball/Desi Arnaz TV show, nor do you know Egypt is in Africa??! I enjoyed this Kitty-heavy episode and I really like how the other ghosts try to protect Kitty from the truth of her tragic life. Kitty comes to terms with the reality of her evil sister and I love that we get to see details of Kitty's actual life. The church groups renting Button House would be fascinating to the Ghosts, can you imagine Robin doing Zumba class?! Mike making his voodoo smoothie so he can see the ghosts, I think if I were Mike I'd be trying that too. It's got to be annoying to live with someone who can see ghosts and you cannot. I like episodes that tell us more about the ghost characters as they lived. I'd give it an 8.25. I found a TV series I was previously unaware of: "Spirited" a TV series that lasted for two seasons, Aussie made. If you enjoy Ghosts give this one a watch, it's on Amazon Prime for free. A lot of the ghost rules we know from our Button House friends are paralleled in this sitcom from 2010/2011. Ghost boundaries, walking through walls but not floors... I've watched through the first season so far and am really enjoying it. You might like it too.

I love the fact that Kitty has 'adopted' members of her Ghost Family to replace her lifetime family. The Captain very much fulfils the role of a kindly father to her- we see this often throughout the show, and of course Alison is her new sister. I would definitely rate this episode above last week's. We get to know aquite a bit more about our characters from this, and it addresses how frustrating it must be for Mike to not know half of what's going on around him.

Finally a name to go with the cat sounds I've been hearing on the podcasts...Shelley! This episode titled I Love Lucy will be forever known to me as I Hate Lucy. I find the sister so freaking annoying and of course we know how this ends. I do like the Captain doing surveillance, convinced she's German. Mike' storyline is great, I can picture Julian doing this to Mike, just because it's Julian and he's naughty. The Fanny/Humphrey body storyline is a little odd...how did that start? You just jump on a beheaded body after a couple hundred years and have at it? The Island of the Dolls is disturbing, and that is not a place I'd like to visit. Creepy dolls, like clowns, completely freak me out. I'd give this episode a 7.5 and am still reeling from Luke's generous 9! 9??!! I'm with Caroline, it's a placeholder episode.

Re subscriber locations - yes East Midlands here! I feel this is very much a place holder episode. It moves the Lucy thread on a bit, and Fanny's story and Mike's work story are funny, but neither is of any real consequence. Of the two I very much prefer the Mike thread. I think they made a good call to only visit the Lucy arc in some episodes, rather than sprinkling it all the way through.

I liked this episode a lot. I love that they are all out of the house and everyone's personality traits shine. My American viewer question is what the heck is wormwood? I don't think it's a thing over here. We have termites but I've not heard of anyone treating for wormwood. I'm with Mike on this point, camping is not on any level fun....although camping and being able to see ghosts might be worth the trouble. So many bits to love...Mary and her attempts to roust the exterminators, The Captain being pretty much clueless but so darned cute, Robin and Julian getting spooked, Mike trying so hard, Kitty is continuing to grow on me, she does terror well, Fanny walking around pursing her lips, Humphrey playing dead, Thomas's Grand Tour being "nice". Great episode, I'll give it an 8.

I really like this episode. There's such a lot of good character moments. It's nice to get everyone out of the house for a bit, and having a little adventure together. I love that Fanny thinks that what she wants is peace and quiet, and everything in its place- but actually she very much misses having everyone around, and the normal hustle and bustle of the house. I have been watching 'Rob and Rylan's Grand Tour' recently - where they are following in the footsteps of Byron through Italy. So many times it put me in mind of Thomas declaring everything in Europe to be just 'nice'. I've never seen Nightmare on Elm Street - so thanks for the synopsis, which adds so much more to Kitty's lines - specifically about being able to sleep again. I guess that a lot of being 'spooked' about scary situations is just psychological- the imagination playing tricks - and so although it isn't logical for Robin and Julian to be scared of the sudden darkness, they are still subject to those suggestive thoughts.

A dime is 10 cents in US money...and Tash's BSL course has me wondering, somewhere are there deaf ghosts? Blind ghosts? What if Helen Keller became a ghost?! Parapalegic ghosts? What if a paraplegic ghost died without a wheelchair? So much to think about. I think Loose Women is probably the British equivalent of our US The View. Thanks for explaining that, as I'd never heard of Loose Women before this episode. Lucy = evil. I knew from the start she was trouble. Kitty and Pat's dancing was delightful! So many little tidbits in this episode, Fanny conveniently missing the Titanic. If she had gone down with the Titanic would she be forever wandering on the sea bed, disapprovingly pursing her lips to the passing fish? This wasn't my favorite episode, but I knew Lucy was going to bridge into more episodes. I'd give it a 7.75. Luke giving it a 6 seems a bit shocking, but I know he's not a generous rater. I googled the Paris catacombs, pretty interesting stuff. So many rules...Lots of steps, no handicapped access, and no touching of the skulls, even if you are sight impaired. You can bring a guide dog, but not a white cane?! Those wacky Parisians!

I have heard the writers/ cast in interviews talking about filming this series through Covid restrictions. I gather they were kept in bubbles of two or three cast members with whom they would be working most during the episode, and then some scenes are pieced together so that it looks as though they are all together in a room when they weren't. They achieved this so well that you really don't notice it - but I guess their experiences of filming the same scene with, and then without,Ghosts in it probably stood them in good stead for this. I wonder if this episode is in fact the place where it is most discernible - it's full of groups of characters working slightly apart from the rest of the cast. Thomas is with Mary- but never enters the room- he talks to her from the doorway. Captain, Humphrey's head and Mike spend time in the 'office'. Pat is with Kitty. Alison is with Lucy, and Thomas following them around. Julian is with Robin- and in the flashbacks he isn't physically close to anyone. Thomas (sort of) addresses the issue of being able to sit on chair, whilst also being able to pass through it. When Julian is exploring this, Thomas says something like "I know, it makes no sense". I guess it's just that sitting on a chair (or other object) is something we've always done through life, and we subconsciously position ourselves correctly in relation to the chair...... I absolutely LOVE the Kitty and Pat dance sequences in this episode! I can't here 'Saturday Night' now without seeing these scenes. There are lots of good bits in the episode, but I never really warmed to the Lucy story arc somehow. I think that it's fairly obvious where this is probably going, and although it's the main hook for this series, I'd rather just get on with the Ghosts/ Alison and Mike storylines.

No, we in the USA do not have Eurovision. Yes, leave the history to Caroline...🤣 I enjoyed this episode, Humphrey's story is told so well, I felt sorry for him, stuck in a marriage with a woman who really doesn't want to be with him. A true marriage of convenience. Then to lose his life in such a silly way...he's a likable fellow, alive or dead. Annoying posh neighbor, not so much. I like the dance of Julian and Barclay, the house isn't big enough for both of them to be dead, and Julian's panic is well played. Little things like the ButtHo t-shirt make this series so awesome. I'd give it a solid 8. Welcome to Kentucky and Waverly Hills! No, there is no Jefferson County University here and I've never heard of the mispronunciation of the graduation roster video. BTW it's pronounced Loo-ah-vuhl, not Louieville. Lots of people died at Waverly and apparently, it is very haunted. Lots of sad history there. You are right about the solarium, fresh air, and sunshine were supposed to be curative for TB. Coincidentally, 502 is not only a creepy spooky room in the sanitorium, but it's also our local telephone area code. 😁

Clarifiction: The S2 Christmas Special is my least favourite of ALL episodes. Sorry. It's not BAD by any measure - just least good for me. Hands off my History Corner!!!!🤣🤣🤣 (Although it is actually your poscast, so..... *backs off) The Mikado is one of a number of comic operettas written by Gilbert and Sullivan which were very popular from the mid 19th century, and through the 20th century. They are/were often performed by amateur groups as well as professionals. The Mikado is perhaps their most successful operetta. Other well known ones are The Pirates of Penzance and HMS Pinafore. Queen Elizabeth was not assassinated, but died of old age in 1603. She did have Mary Queen of Scots executed in 1587, some 12 years after the Bone Plot, to remove any further threat to her throne. She was eventually succeeded by Mary's son James, who was not not Catholic. He became James the VI of Scotland and James I of England, and was determined to bring the two kingdoms into one realm, although the Act of Union didn't come into effect until 1707, under Queen Anne. At this point it seems as if Robin and Humphrey are the only ghosts in residence (apart from the Plaguers who we know are in the basement) but in Series 4 where Robin is showing the others all the stars he's named after other ghosts who have 'moved on' he does mention a number of them who we have never heard of - so as Robin often says, people come and they go..... I really liked the documentary element of this episode. It served to establish the very thing that you talked about- that history is told by the victors - and should be subject to constant revision as new evidence comes to light.

Firstly, I'm a bit concerned you two had a death day, if someone has died, I'm very sorry for your loss. Secondly, I distinctly heard a cat meow early on in the podcast...and you think no one is listening? This was one of my very favorite episodes. I loved the backstory on Julian, and his continuing recall of memories as he dealt with baby Nancy. We in the US don't have a yearly speech on Christmas from the President, or if we do, I've never been made aware of it. I adored "In The Bleak Midwinter", I had never heard this tune before, and have since found several good renditions online. When the ghosts started singing along, Allison was so very pleased, and when the plague pitters joined in, well, I got quite teary. And when she reached over and kissed Thomas's cheek...just lovely. Although I find Mike's sisters pretty awful, I love his Dad, chainsaw in his car trunk, and side of beef aside.. 4 people from history I'd like to play Twister with? Tough call, but I'd probably choose John Lennon, Amelia Earhart, Mahatma Gandhi, and Vincent van Gogh. Lots to discuss with these four. I'd give this episode a 10.

I think when Julian says he's in Brussels he is just straight up lying to his wife, and is actually at some seedy establishment in London. Being in Brussels explains why he can't get home for Christmas, whereas hanging out in London wouldn't wash as an excuse. I love the fact that Robin has clearly been asked by Pat to shout 'It's Chriiiiiistmasss!" without having a clue why - he does it, then asks "Like that?" Pat moves off, totally thrilled by it ( as are we - though I suspect most US viewers will miss the joke entirely). I know lot of people love this episode, but it's actually one of my least favourite of all. Not that there's anything wrong with it, and lots of good moments- but if I had to miss an episode out on a rerun, this woud be it. Sorry my 'History Corner' rambled on so much last week! To compensate- no History notes this time! Have a good break, and I look forward to Series 3 in a couple of weeks!

Loved this episode. Especially the fight scene...alternating 17:09 the fight, and what the people with pulses could see. This episode marks a turning point for Fanny as she begins to develop some understanding that the attitudes of her time may not have been that great, and may have been responsible for her unhappy marriage and death. The scenes with Pat and Kevin were also very touching and beautifully shot. And....Lassie was movies AND a TV series 😂 I think my favourite episode this series was The Thomas Thorne Affair. Loved hearing each of the ghosts telling their version of what happened. And Robin talking about the horse poo on Thomas's lady shoes. As for spooky settings, I've worked in a lot of hospitals and there are always ghost stories. Particularly in the older ones. One palliative care I worked in had a room with 6 beds. A lady whose bed was next to the door rang her buzzer in the middle of the night and told the nurse that the woman diagonally opposite had just climbed out the windows. When the nurse went to look, the patient was dead in the bed. Spooky!