What is the best comedy on netflix at the moment?

Hunting for Hilarity: What is the best comedy on netflix at the moment?

That familiar feeling descends: another evening, another seemingly endless scroll through the vast digital aisles of Netflix, the remote hovering uncertainly. You’re desperate for a proper laugh, something genuinely funny to cut through the noise, but the sheer volume of choice can feel less like a treat and more like a chore. Sitcoms blur into stand-up specials, films jostle for attention, and the algorithm throws up suggestions that feel miles off the mark.

Fear not, fellow comedy connoisseurs. Consider this your expertly curated map to the treasure trove of humour currently residing on Netflix UK. The legwork has been done, the contenders rigorously assessed – from side-splitting sitcoms and cracking cinematic capers to razor-sharp stand-up acts. The aim? To finally answer that crucial question echoing in living rooms across the nation: What is the best comedy on Netflix at the moment? specifically for the UK audience, right here in early April 2025.

This isn't just about what's landed this week. It's about what's genuinely brilliant, laugh-out-loud funny, and worth your precious screen time. The approach considers the full picture: critical reviews (yes, those Rotten Tomatoes scores matter ), audience buzz filtering through online discussions , cultural relevance, recency, and that undeniable, fundamental quality – pure, unadulterated funniness. The focus remains squarely on titles readily available to stream right now on Netflix within the UK. Prepare for a guided tour through the very best series, films, and stand-up specials designed to tickle your funny bone.   

The Fresh Crop & Current Champions: What's Tickling the UK's Funny Bone?

So, what is the best comedy on Netflix at the moment? Well, April 2025 brings a fresh batch of potential comedy contenders to Netflix UK, adding new flavours to the already rich comedic buffet. Landing on April 2nd is 'Banger', a French comedic thriller pitting an ageing DJ against a younger rival with suspected criminal ties, offering a potentially quirky slice of Euro-comedy. Hot on its heels, arriving April 8th, is the much-anticipated family adventure 'Paddington in Peru'. Following the near-universal adoration and exceptional critical success of Paddington 2 , expectations are sky-high for the Brown family's trip to Paddington's homeland.   

Also generating buzz is the return of Charlie Brooker's 'Black Mirror' for its seventh season on April 10th. While primarily known for its dark techno-parables, the series frequently employs biting satire and pitch-black humour. This season's inclusion of a sequel to the beloved, Emmy-winning 'USS Callister' episode makes its return particularly relevant for viewers seeking intelligent, albeit often unsettling, laughs. Other April arrivals catering to comedy tastes include the fourth season of the German dark comedy 'How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast)' (April 8th)  and a new episode of 'My Next Guest Needs No Introduction with David Letterman' (April 8th), featuring basketball phenom Caitlin Clark.   

However, the answer to "What is the best comedy on Netflix at the moment?" isn't solely dictated by the release schedule. Enduring quality and recent availability play a huge role. The arrival of 'Back' on Netflix UK is a significant event for British comedy fans. Reuniting Peep Show's David Mitchell and Robert Webb, this critically lauded sitcom boasts perfect or near-perfect Rotten Tomatoes scores and offers intelligent, awkward humour. Similarly, the return of 'The Nice Guys' to the platform brings back a beloved, highly-rated (91% on Rotten Tomatoes) action-comedy, praised for the sparkling chemistry between Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe. Diane Morgan's brilliantly dim-witted creation, Philomena Cunk, also remains a highlight, with 'Cunk on Life' joining the popular Cunk on Earth mockumentary series. And, of course, major Netflix original hits like 'Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery' continue to be popular choices for star-studded comedic thrills.   

This mix highlights that Netflix's strength lies in both its fresh originals and its curated library. What constitutes the "best" right now is a dynamic blend of the new and the evergreen. Furthermore, many top contenders aren't straightforward comedies but skilfully blend humour with other genres. From the action-comedy thrills of The Nice Guys  and Spy  to the satirical sci-fi of Black Mirror  and the complex comedy-drama of Beef , audiences clearly appreciate humour woven into diverse narrative fabrics. The platform caters effectively to this taste, meaning the definition of "comedy" worth recommending is satisfyingly broad.   

To help navigate these options, here’s a snapshot of the top contenders vying for the comedy crown on Netflix UK this April:

Top Comedy Contenders on Netflix UK (April 2025)

Title	Type	Style	Key Highlight	Why it's a Contender Now
Back	Series	Dark Comedy / Sitcom	Peep Show duo's awkward, acclaimed reunion	Recently added to Netflix UK, exceptional reviews
The Nice Guys	Film	Action-Comedy / Neo-Noir	Gosling & Crowe's perfect comedic chemistry	Recently returned to Netflix, modern cult classic
Derry Girls	Series	Sitcom / Coming-of-Age	Heartwarming, hilarious 90s Northern Irish chaos	Perennial favourite, modern classic status
Beef	Series	Dark Comedy / Drama	Intense, stylish exploration of modern rage	Critically acclaimed recent Netflix Original
Taskmaster (Early Seasons)	Series	Panel Show / Game Show	Brilliantly daft challenges, comedian chaos	Hugely popular UK format, reliably funny
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery	Film	Mystery / Comedy	Star-studded, witty whodunnit fun	Major Netflix hit, clever & entertaining
Paddington 2	Film	Family / Comedy	Utterly charming, critically adored bear hug	Near-perfect film, sequel arriving soon
Spy	Film	Action / Spy Comedy	McCarthy & Statham shine in hilarious spy spoof	Consistently funny, reliable library choice
Cunk on Life / Cunk on Earth	Series/Special	Mockumentary	Diane Morgan skewers history & existence	Unique, brilliantly stupid British humour
James Acaster: Repertoire	Stand-Up Special	Observational / Absurdist	Four interconnected specials of unique genius	Highly-rated, innovative stand-up series
Daniel Sloss: Live Shows	Stand-Up Special	Dark Comedy / Provocative	Tackles taboos with intelligence & edge	Acclaimed, challenging modern stand-up

Series Sensations: The TV Shows Worth Sacrificing Your Social Life For

When it comes to binge-worthy television comedy, Netflix UK offers a formidable line-up. Several series stand out in April 2025, demanding attention and potentially ruining your weekend plans (in the best possible way).

Back (Dark Comedy/Sitcom)

The recent addition of Back to Netflix is cause for celebration. This Channel 4 gem reunites David Mitchell and Robert Webb, beloved stars of the iconic Peep Show. Written by Simon Blackwell (whose credits include The Thick of It and Veep), the premise is deceptively simple: Stephen (Mitchell), a tightly wound man, prepares to take over his late father's pub in rural England. His plans are thrown into disarray by the unexpected return of Andrew (Webb), a charming, worldly former foster brother whom Stephen barely remembers but instantly distrusts. The comedy stems from classic Mitchellian awkwardness and social anxiety, amplified by Andrew's smooth manipulation and Stephen's escalating paranoia. It's a masterclass in simmering resentment, gaslighting humour, and painfully relatable cringe, underpinned by what critics called "searing social satire". While delivering big laughs, the show isn't afraid to explore darker themes, described by The Guardian as "brutal in places" but with a "deft touch". Its arrival on Netflix, coupled with stellar Rotten Tomatoes scores (100% for season one, 95% for season two ), makes Back an essential watch for anyone seeking intelligent, biting, and brilliantly performed British comedy right now.   

Derry Girls (Sitcom/Coming-of-Age)

Though its final series aired a while ago, Derry Girls remains a towering achievement in modern sitcoms and a perennial favourite on Netflix. Created by Lisa McGee, the show transports viewers to Derry, Northern Ireland, during the 1990s Troubles. It follows the hilarious misadventures of four teenage girls – Erin, Orla, Clare, and Michelle – and Michelle's long-suffering English cousin, James, as they navigate the universal trials of adolescence (school, friendships, family, romance) against the backdrop of political conflict. The genius lies in its perfect balance: the political situation is ever-present but rarely the focus, instead providing a unique context for the universally relatable chaos of being a teenager. The humour is warm, nostalgic, and incredibly sharp, packed with specific Northern Irish slang and cultural references that somehow feel universal. Often described as a "female Inbetweeners" , it captures youthful energy, friendship dynamics, and family eccentricities with uncanny accuracy and surprising poignancy. Its widespread critical acclaim and enduring popularity cement its status as a modern classic, offering heartwarming laughs and genuine emotional depth.   

Beef (Dark Comedy/Drama)

Representing a more recent, and arguably more challenging, style of streaming comedy is Beef. This Netflix Original stars Steven Yeun as Danny, a struggling contractor, and Ali Wong (a formidable stand-up comedian in her own right ) as Amy, an unfulfilled entrepreneur. A seemingly minor road rage incident sparks an escalating feud between these two strangers, spiralling into increasingly destructive and obsessive acts of vengeance that consume their lives. While labelled a comedy, Beef delves into dark territory, exploring themes of anger, class disparity, loneliness, and existential angst. The humour is often uncomfortable, derived from the characters' poor decisions and the sheer absurdity of their escalating conflict. It's described as "very funny" but also "stress-inducing" and "stylish". Beef was a critical hit for Netflix, praised for its performances, writing, and unique tone. It exemplifies the platform's investment in complex, genre-bending narratives that push the boundaries of traditional comedy, offering sharp, if sometimes uneasy, laughs alongside compelling drama.   

Taskmaster (Panel Show/Game Show)

For pure, unadulterated silliness, few shows rival the British institution that is Taskmaster. While newer series premiere elsewhere, several earlier seasons are readily available on Netflix UK. The format is simple yet brilliant: five comedians compete in a series of bizarre and often impossible tasks set by the tyrannical Taskmaster, Greg Davies, with meticulous adjudication (and occasional sabotage) from the show's creator, "Little" Alex Horne. The joy comes from witnessing comedians grapple with absurd challenges (like "paint a picture of a horse while riding a horse" or "get this potato into the golf hole without touching the red green"), revealing unexpected ingenuity, utter incompetence, and their true competitive colours. The banter between the contestants and the hosts is a key ingredient, creating a reliably funny and easily digestible viewing experience. Its immense popularity, spawning numerous international versions , speaks to its comedic genius, making the original UK version on Netflix a must-watch for fans of panel shows and outright daftness.   

The prominence of shows like Back, Derry Girls, and Taskmaster, alongside other beloved British series often found on the platform like Peep Show, The IT Crowd, After Life, and Motherland , underscores the significant role of UK productions in Netflix's comedy offering for British viewers. There's clearly a strong local appetite for homegrown humour, which the platform caters to effectively through licensing and original productions. Furthermore, while traditional sitcom structures like Derry Girls remain popular, the success of shows like Back (with its dark undercurrents), Beef (blending comedy and intense drama), and the unconventional format of Taskmaster indicates an evolution in audience taste. Viewers are embracing comedy series that incorporate complex themes, hybrid genres, and innovative formats beyond the classic sitcom mould.   

Feature Film Funnies: Must-Watch Movies for a Night In

When only a feature-length dose of laughter will do, Netflix UK's film library offers plenty of choices, from action-packed romps to charming family favourites.

The Nice Guys (Action-Comedy/Neo-Noir)

Shane Black's criminally underappreciated 2016 film, The Nice Guys, has thankfully returned to Netflix UK. Set against the smoggy backdrop of 1970s Los Angeles, it pairs the unlikely duo of brutish enforcer Jackson Healy (Russell Crowe) and hapless, heavy-drinking private investigator Holland March (Ryan Gosling). Forced to work together to find a missing young woman, they stumble into a conspiracy involving the porn industry, environmental protests, and the Detroit automotive industry. The film is a masterclass in the buddy action-comedy genre, powered by the phenomenal chemistry between its leads. Gosling delivers a career-best comedic performance, showcasing impeccable timing and a gift for physical humour, while Crowe provides the perfect gruff, world-weary counterpoint. The dialogue crackles with Shane Black's signature wit, the period details are spot-on, and the convoluted noir plot provides ample opportunity for hilarious situations and surprisingly effective action sequences. Its 91% Rotten Tomatoes score reflects the critical acclaim and vocal fanbase it has built over the years. Its current availability makes it an essential watch and a prime contender for the best comedy film on Netflix right now.   

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (Mystery/Comedy)

Following the runaway success of Knives Out, Rian Johnson delivered another intricate and entertaining whodunnit exclusively for Netflix. Glass Onion sees the return of the "gentleman sleuth" Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig, clearly relishing the role), who finds himself invited to a lavish private island in Greece. Tech billionaire Miles Bron (Edward Norton) has gathered his group of wealthy, disruptive friends for a murder mystery game, but inevitably, real murder intervenes. Like its predecessor, Glass Onion boasts a star-studded ensemble cast, sharp satirical observations (this time targeting tech moguls and influencer culture), and a cleverly constructed plot full of twists and turns. The humour is woven throughout, stemming from the eccentric characters, Blanc's folksy pronouncements, and the absurdity of the lavish setting. It proved a massive hit for Netflix, dominating viewing charts and earning generally positive reviews. It remains a benchmark for successful, star-driven streaming comedy films.   

Paddington 2 (Family/Comedy)

It might seem bold to declare a film about a talking bear one of the greatest comedies available, but Paddington 2 earns its place through sheer, unadulterated charm and near-perfect execution. (Note: Availability on Netflix UK should be confirmed for April 2025, though its sequel Paddington in Peru arrives April 8th ). In this instalment, Paddington (voiced impeccably by Ben Whishaw) is happily settled with the Brown family in Windsor Gardens. He sets his heart on buying a unique antique pop-up book for his Aunt Lucy's 100th birthday, taking on various odd jobs to save up. Disaster strikes when the book is stolen by fading actor Phoenix Buchanan (a scene-stealing Hugh Grant), and Paddington is wrongly imprisoned. Directed by Paul King, the film is a visual delight, filled with whimsical humour, inventive slapstick, genuine warmth, and moments of surprising emotional depth. It famously achieved near-perfect scores on review aggregators like Rotten Tomatoes, hailed as a masterpiece of family filmmaking. Its blend of gentle humour, heartfelt storytelling, and brilliant performances makes it a joyous experience for all ages.   

Spy (Action/Spy Comedy)

For those seeking broader, more outrageous laughs, Paul Feig's Spy remains a top-tier choice, frequently available on Netflix UK. Melissa McCarthy stars as Susan Cooper, a capable but overlooked CIA analyst confined to her desk, providing remote support for suave field agent Bradley Fine (Jude Law). When Fine is compromised and the identities of other top agents are revealed, the unassuming Cooper volunteers to go undercover to infiltrate the dangerous world of arms dealer Rayna Boyanov (Rose Byrne). The film cleverly spoofs spy movie tropes while allowing McCarthy to showcase her comedic range, from verbal dexterity to physical comedy. A major highlight is Jason Statham, hilariously sending up his own tough-guy persona as Rick Ford, an overly confident but inept agent. With a sharp script, great supporting performances (especially from Byrne), and well-staged action sequences, Spy is a consistently funny and satisfying action-comedy hybrid.   

The strength of films like The Nice Guys and Spy, alongside perennial favourites like Superbad  (if available), points to the enduring appeal of the buddy comedy dynamic, where the chemistry and interplay between the leads drive much of the humour. It's a formula that continues to resonate with audiences seeking laughs paired with action or adventure. Additionally, the specific inclusion of certain films marked "UK only" in some listings, such as the dark comedies Filth or The Death of Stalin , suggests that Netflix UK's film library is tailored to some extent, potentially reflecting local tastes for darker or more idiosyncratic humour, or simply different licensing agreements compared to other regions. This reinforces the value of UK-specific recommendations.   

Stand-Up Standouts: Solo Acts Guaranteed to Get You Giggling

Navigating the world of stand-up comedy on Netflix can be daunting, as humour is intensely personal. However, certain specials rise above the rest through sheer originality, critical acclaim, or audience adoration.

Acknowledging the subjective nature of stand-up is crucial; one person's comedic genius is another's awkward silence. Netflix offers a vast spectrum, from observational veterans to absurdist newcomers.   

James Acaster: Repertoire (Observational/Absurdist)

British comedian James Acaster offers something truly unique with Repertoire. Rather than a single hour-long special, it's a collection of four distinct but cleverly interconnected shows filmed in the same intimate venue. Acaster's style is whimsical, neurotic, and deeply original. He takes seemingly mundane observations – undercover cops, the logic of loopholes, jury duty – and spins them into elaborate, absurd narratives filled with callbacks and unexpected tangents. His awkward stage presence belies a fiercely intelligent and meticulously crafted comedic mind. Repertoire garnered significant praise for its ambition and execution, earning high ratings  and frequent mentions in discussions of the best stand-up on the platform. It represents a highly creative and distinctively British comedic voice.   

Daniel Sloss: Live Shows (Dark Comedy/Provocative)

For those who prefer their comedy with a sharper edge, Scottish comedian Daniel Sloss delivers. His Live Shows collection on Netflix comprises two specials, Dark and Jigsaw. Sloss is known for his willingness to tackle uncomfortable and taboo subjects head-on, blending dark humour with intelligent, often provocative, social commentary. He moves seamlessly between deeply personal anecdotes and broader societal critiques. The Jigsaw special, in particular, gained notoriety for its deconstruction of modern relationships, reportedly leading to numerous break-ups amongst viewers who took its message to heart. Highly rated and considered by some to be at the top of the current stand-up game , Sloss represents the challenging, thought-provoking end of the comedic spectrum available on Netflix.   

Beyond these highlights, Netflix boasts a deep catalogue. Recent acclaimed specials potentially available (check current listings) might include work from sharp one-liner specialist Anthony Jeselnik, the physically adept Ronny Chieng, or the insightful Hasan Minhaj. The platform also hosts multiple specials from comedy giants like Bill Burr and Dave Chappelle , as well as innovative shows like Neal Brennan's 3 Mics  and John Mulaney's various contributions.   

This variety demonstrates that Netflix caters to a wide range of stand-up preferences. There isn't one dominant style; instead, viewers can find everything from Acaster's intricate absurdism  to Sloss's dark truths , Burr's relatable rage , Hannah Gadsby's genre-bending performances , or Jeselnik's perfectly crafted dark jokes. Furthermore, the presence of multiple specials from comedians like Acaster, Sloss, Burr, and Chappelle  allows audiences to explore their favourite performers in greater depth, suggesting Netflix values building relationships with comedians who resonate strongly with viewers.   

The Verdict: So, What Really is the Best Comedy on Netflix Right Now?

Ultimately, declaring a single "best" comedy on Netflix UK in April 2025 is an impossible task – taste is king, and what splits one person's sides might leave another cold. The goal here has been to illuminate the brightest stars in the current comedic constellation, showcasing top-tier options across series, films, and stand-up specials.

The analysis reveals a rich tapestry of humour. For sharp, awkward, and intelligent British wit, the recently added 'Back'  is a standout. If it's slick action paired with brilliant buddy chemistry you seek, 'The Nice Guys'  is hard to beat. For heartwarming laughs and nostalgic charm, 'Derry Girls'  remains essential viewing. Those seeking darker, more complex comedy-drama will find 'Beef'  compelling. For pure, unadulterated silliness, the early seasons of 'Taskmaster'  offer guaranteed giggles. 'Glass Onion'  provides clever, star-studded fun, while stand-up aficionados have unique talents like James Acaster  and Daniel Sloss  to explore.   

Perhaps the best way to approach the question is to consider personal preference:

• If you love classic British awkwardness and biting satire: Dive into Back or revisit Peep Show.   

• For something brilliantly daft and uniquely British: Taskmaster or Diane Morgan's Cunk specials  are perfect.   

• If you fancy a laugh mixed with thrills and action: The Nice Guys, Spy, or Glass Onion should hit the spot.   

• For comedy that makes you think (and maybe squirm a little): Explore Beef, certain Black Mirror episodes, or the challenging stand-up of Daniel Sloss.   

Ultimately, discovering what is the best comedy on Netflix at the moment for you is part of the viewing adventure. Hopefully, this guide provides a strong starting point. So, grab the remote, pick a contender, and prepare for some much-needed laughter. Happy watching!

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