As Time Goes By

Two lovers are reunited after decades apart following a mutual misunderstanding.

As Time Goes By (1992-2005) is a British sitcom created by Colin Bostock-Smith for BBC One, running ten seasons and sixty-seven episodes of half-hour comedy. Judi Dench plays Jean Pargetter, a warm and witty woman who is reunited with Lionel Hardcastle, played by Geoffrey Palmer, decades after the two were parted by a misplaced letter during the Korean War. Their story of rekindled romance is the engine of the show, as the couple navigates their mature relationship while Jean's daughters and their boyfriend, played by Philip Bretherton, bring everyday complications into the household. Each episode is built from small domestic misunderstandings, dry banter, and the awkward negotiations of adults who have lived full lives apart. The show stays grounded in a contemporary English domestic setting, with a cast of seasoned character actors giving the series a comfortable, familiar rhythm. Its tone is gentle, witty, and warmly nostalgic, with a theme of second chances and the value of lost time. Fans of Butterflies and Keeping Up Appearances will find the same affectionate humor and well-observed British domestic comedy here, along with the wistful charm of a late-life romance.

• Butterfliesgentle british sitcom, mature romance, warm ensemble comedy
• Keeping Up Appearancesbritish domestic sitcom, wry middle-aged characters, cozy comedy
• Last of the Summer Winelong-running romantic comedy about lovers reunited later in life, wistful tone

Created by

Colin Bostock-Smith

Release Date

1992-01-12

Episode runtime

30 min

Rating

8.3 / 10 (47)

What is As Time Goes By about?

Two former lovers reunited decades after a misplaced letter try to rebuild their lives and romance in a gentle British sitcom.

What is As Time Goes By like to watch?

Ember's analysis rates the pacing of As Time Goes By as measured, its intensity as mild and its storytelling as simple.

Is As Time Goes By violent?

No — Ember's analysis finds no violence in As Time Goes By.

Which shows are like As Time Goes By?

Shows with a similar feel include Butterflies, Keeping Up Appearances, and Last of the Summer Wine.

How long is As Time Goes By?

As Time Goes By: 10 seasons, 67 episodes.

Is As Time Goes By still running?

No, As Time Goes By has ended.

Where can I watch As Time Goes By?

In United States, As Time Goes By streams on Britbox Apple TV channel, BritBox, BritBox Amazon Channel.