So, as an American who moved to London in 2001, a few distinctively British quirks revealed themselves to me soon after starting to settle in. To name but a few … there was the love of tea, a keen interest in reading newspapers on public transport (if only to avoid eye contact with other passengers), and an overzealous use of the word “sorry” in any number of social situations that may or may not have actually warranted an apology. And then there were these two fellows: Ant & Dec. Who? Huh? Why?
More than a decade on, I’m now hip to the tea thing (even though I continue very much to prefer coffee). I’m as apt as any to scan whatever piece of printed matter I can find when riding the Tube or bus, and I’ve been known to utter “I’m terribly sorry” before I even realise what’s happening in certain circumstances.
However, the Ant & Dec phenomenon is still a bit beyond me, honestly. But I’ve gotta give ’em props. Since moving here 14 years ago and first learning about the comedy duo, they’ve appeared to hardly age (I wish I could say the same for myself!), and their popularity has not waned at all. As far as I can tell their many fans love them now as much as ever. Bravos chaps!
I’m being a bit cheeky about the ever cheery and actually quite funny twosome from Newcastle, of course. But to be sure, they are an especially British institution.
Are you an Art & Dec devotee? Here’s some info about seeing them live this summer in London.
Ant & Dec’s Takeaway on Tour, “a spectacular live show featuring special guests, amazing prizes” with the chance for you to be part of the act will be stopping at The O2 on the 29th and 30th of August as part of their national arena tour with the promise of “all sorts of surprises” and lots of chances for audience members to appear on stage with these much beloved funsters.
