BBC enthusiasts have unearthed a television treasure from over two decades ago, spotlighting a star's early performance as he takes on a fresh role in a current series. This discovery has sparked renewed appreciation for a classic British sitcom that originally aired in 2002.
Rediscovering a Classic Sitcom
Social media users and dedicated fans have brought attention to 15 Storeys High, a British sitcom that first broadcast in 2002. The show originated as two radio series in 1998 and was created and co-written by the late comedian Sean Lock, who also starred alongside Benedict Wong. Set in a residential tower block, it follows Vince Clark, an anti-social and eccentric character portrayed by Lock, who strives to live by his own rules but must contend with his lodger Errol, played by Wong, who is forced to adapt to Vince's unconventional lifestyle.
Vince works as a lifeguard at a local swimming pool and actively avoids human contact, yet he frequently finds himself in bizarre and awkward situations despite his lack of social skills. The cast included notable actors such as Pearce Quigley, Tracy-Ann Oberman, Bill Bailey, Aml Ameen, Toby Jones, and Steven Webb, adding to the show's comedic depth.
Fan Reactions and Praise
On platforms like Reddit, fans have expressed their admiration for 15 Storeys High, with one user noting, "Before putting in a stellar performance in Small Prophets, the inimitable Pearce Quigley was in this episode of 15 Storeys High alongside the late great Sean Lock." Another replied, "This might be why I felt he was familiar in Detectorists but could never place him! So much time between two very different characters." A third commented, "This is terrific. Also, Benedict Wong! Thank you."
The sitcom has received high praise over the years, with viewers calling it "a real hidden gem" and "fantastic underrated sitcom of the highest calibre." One fan elaborated, "15 Storeys High can rightfully take its place among the very best of BBC Comedies - a real hidden gem that hopefully one day will receive the recognition it deserves. If you haven't seen it and you like slightly off-the-wall comedies like The Office, you shouldn't be disappointed!" Others described it as "massively underrated comedy gold" and praised Sean Lock's writing, saying, "A magnificent series with excellent story telling, fantastic characters and most of all brilliantly funny comedy."
Pearce Quigley's New Role in Small Prophets
This rediscovery comes as Pearce Quigley features in the new BBC series Small Prophets, created and written by Mackenzie Crook of The Office fame. The show, which is currently airing on BBC, tells the comic tale of Michael Sleep, an eccentric character played by Quigley. After his beloved Clea disappeared seven years ago, Michael waits hopefully for her return, leading a mundane life that includes eating Shreddies, working in a DIY store, and visiting his father Brian, portrayed by Sir Michael Palin.
The BBC teases the plot: "That is just the way it is, until one day dad Brian shares an old recipe involving rainwater, horse manure and more than a little alchemy. With recipe in hand, Michael sets out (albeit with some scepticism) to create Homunculi - magical prophesying spirits that can predict the future - in the hope they have the answer to his burning question, 'will I ever see Clea again?'"
Supporting Cast and Fan Reception
Michael receives help from his young workmate Kacey, played by Lauren Patel, forming an unlikely friendship that blossoms partly through their mutual dislike of store manager Gordon, portrayed by Mackenzie Crook. Their dynamic adds to the intrigue, frustrating nosy neighbours played by Sophie Willan and Jon Pointing, who are obsessed with uncovering the secrets of Michael's garden shed.
Fans have already embraced Small Prophets, hailing it as a "gem" and "nothing short of genius." One viewer praised, "This is a heartwarming, funny, sad, and utterly brilliant British drama which is stuffed full of terrific lines and situations of the bizarre. The acting is amazing, with all the characters each perfectly crafted and played."
Availability and Legacy
Small Prophets is available to watch on BBC iPlayer, offering audiences a chance to enjoy Quigley's latest performance. Meanwhile, 15 Storeys High can be found on some subscription plans via Netflix, allowing new and returning viewers to explore this classic sitcom. This dual availability highlights the enduring appeal of British comedy and the talent of actors like Pearce Quigley, whose career spans from hidden gems to contemporary hits.
The resurgence of interest in 15 Storeys High underscores the lasting impact of well-crafted sitcoms and the importance of rediscovering older works in the digital age. As fans continue to share their enthusiasm online, both series stand as testaments to the creativity and humour that define British television.
