Mind Your Language is a British sitcom that aired on ITV from 1977 to 1979, with a brief revival in 1985. The show is set in an adult education college in London and focuses on the class in English as a Foreign Language taught by Mr. Jeremy Brown, who teaches a group of enrolled foreigners.
Here are some interesting facts about the show:
- Inspiration: The series was inspired by the 1937 book “The Education of HYMAN KAPLA*N” by Leo Rosten, which is set in a New York night class for English learners.
- Cancellation: Michael Grade, then Director of Programmes at London Weekend Television, commissioned the show but later canceled it after three series, believing it had exhausted its comedic potential.
- Revival: The show was briefly revived in 1985 (or 1986 in most ITV regions) with six of the original cast members.
- International Popularity: Despite criticisms of racial stereotyping in the UK, “Mind Your Language” found significant success abroad and continues to be rerun in countries like India.
- Cast Diversity: The show featured a diverse ensemble cast portraying students from various countries, each bringing their unique cultural backgrounds to the classroom setting.
“Mind Your Language” remains a notable example of 1970s British television, reflecting both the era’s comedic tastes and its evolving perspectives on cultural representation.