Last One Laughing UK: A Comedy Sensation with Over 6 Million Viewers

Comedy in Your Eye
Apr 23
10 min read

Updated: Apr 25

Amazon Prime Video LOL Last One Laughing

Last One Laughing UK, the new comedy series hosted by Jimmy Carr, has taken the streaming world by storm, attracting over 6 million viewers within its first month on Amazon Prime Video. The show features a unique format where ten comedians compete to make each other laugh while trying to maintain their own composure.

Key Takeaways

Viewership Success: Over 6.1 million viewers tuned in within the first 28 days.
Format: Comedians must make each other laugh without cracking up themselves.
Star-Studded Cast: Features top UK comedians including Bob Mortimer, Daisy May Cooper, and Joe Lycett.
Potential for Renewal: Given its success, a second series is likely to be announced soon.

Overview of Last One Laughing UK

Launched on 20th March 2025, Last One Laughing UK has quickly become one of Amazon's biggest hits in the UK, second only to Clarkson's Farm. The show’s premise is simple yet engaging: ten comedians enter a house and attempt to make each other laugh while keeping a straight face. The last comedian remaining without laughing wins the game.

The series features a stellar lineup of comedians, including:

The Format: A Global Hit Lands on British Shores

The UK's embrace of Last One Laughing is part of a much larger global phenomenon. The format originated in Japan as Documental, created by comedian Hitoshi Matsumoto, where comedians put their own money on the line in a no-holds-barred laughter battle. Its core concept – the tension of suppressed laughter juxtaposed with deliberate comedic provocation – has proven remarkably universal and adaptable.

Over 20 local versions have been produced worldwide, often becoming flagship titles for Prime Video in their respective territories. The French, German, and Italian adaptations, for instance, became the most-watched titles of all time on Prime Video in those countries. High-profile hosts have fronted various editions, including Graham Norton in Ireland, Rebel Wilson in Australia, and Trevor Noah in South Africa, underscoring the format's international appeal and Amazon's significant investment in it.

The UK version, produced by Zeppotron and Initial , adheres closely to the established rules but infuses them with a distinctly British flavour. The casting leans heavily into the nation's well-established panel show culture, bringing together comedians who often share screen time on programmes like 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown or Would I Lie to You?. This pre-existing familiarity among the cast creates an immediate dynamic, a blend of camaraderie and competitive needling built on established comedic personas. Viewers are essentially watching extensions of the "Cats Does Countdown Cinematic Universe," as one critic termed it, playing out under intense pressure.

The UK production adds layers to the basic premise. 'Joker' cards compel contestants to perform pre-planned comedy routines, putting immense strain on the remaining participants who must watch impassively. Surprise cameos from figures like Alison Hammond and Nick Mohammed are deployed to ambush the contestants with unexpected humour. The slick, brightly coloured set provides a stark contrast to the often more basic settings of earlier international versions, giving the UK show a high-production-value feel, though some commentators noted this polish might sacrifice some of the "scrappy", raw energy of the Japanese original. The format's inherent simplicity, however, remains its core strength, allowing the comedians' personalities and improvisational skills to take centre stage.

By the Numbers: Verifying the "6 Million Viewer" Sensation

The claim of Last One Laughing UK being a "comedy sensation with over 6 million viewers" is not mere hyperbole, according to industry data. Figures reported by the television trade publication Broadcast, citing data from the Broadcasters' Audience Research Board (BARB), confirm the show's remarkable performance.

Within its first 28 days of availability on Prime Video, Last One Laughing UK attracted a cumulative audience of 6.1 million viewers. This figure firmly establishes it as one of Amazon's most successful UK original series. To put this in context, it surpasses the strong 28-day launch performance of Prime Video's high-profile video game adaptation Fallout, which debuted in April 2025 and drew 5 million viewers for its first episode in the same timeframe. While it sits behind the phenomenal success of Clarkson's Farm (which reportedly drew 7.7 million viewers for its third season launch period), LOL UK's performance significantly exceeded expectations and cemented its status as a major hit for the platform.

Early viewing figures already indicated strong traction. Some reports, citing BARB data via outlets like Metro and Hello!, noted the first three episodes garnered viewership figures around 2.9 million, 2.5 million, and 2.4 million respectively shortly after launch. Broadcast's later figures showed the first episode reaching 2.8 million viewers within seven days, while the second episode grew to 5.3 million viewers over 28 days. The substantial increase between the 7-day and 28-day figures suggests the show gained significant momentum beyond its initial launch week. This points towards strong word-of-mouth recommendations and viewers engaging in binge-watching sessions, likely facilitated by the platform's strategy of releasing the first four episodes simultaneously, followed by the final two a week later.

Crucially, the show's appeal cut across the streaming landscape at launch. According to BARB data supplied for Overnights.tv, the debut episode of Last One Laughing UK was the most popular launch episode across all UK streaming platforms during its premiere week. This indicates the show didn't just resonate with existing Prime Video subscribers but captured a significant share of the overall streaming audience's attention, outperforming new releases on rival services during that specific period.

Further demographic data revealed a broadly even split between male and female viewers, and indicated that the vast majority – nearly 90% – watched the series via a smart TV, suggesting it was primarily consumed as a main-screen event rather than on mobile devices. The show's popularity was also reflected in Prime Video's own rankings, where it climbed to the number one spot in the UK top 10 chart, displacing the long-reigning action series Reacher.

To illustrate its standing among Prime Video's top UK originals, the following table compares its 28-day viewership with other known successes:

Prime Video UK: Top Original Launches (First 28 Days Viewership)

Show Title	Genre	Launch Year	Viewers (Millions)	Data Source
Clarkson's Farm*	Reality/Documentary	2024 (S3)	7.7	Broadcast / BARB**
Last One Laughing UK	Comedy/Reality	2025 (S1)	6.1	Broadcast / BARB
Fallout	Sci-Fi/Drama	2025 (S1)	5.0	Broadcast / BARB

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Note: Clarkson's Farm figure likely relates to its most recent season launch for comparison. *As cited in.

This data collectively paints a clear picture: Last One Laughing UK was not just popular; it was a statistically significant success, validating Amazon's investment in the format for the UK market.

Critical Mass vs. Audience Applause: The Reception Divide?

While the viewership figures confirm the show's popular reach, the critical and audience reception presented a more complex picture. Overwhelmingly, viewer response, particularly on social media, was ecstatic. Fans branded the show "brilliant" , "superb television" , "arguably the funniest TV show ever made" , and a "masterclass in comedy gold". Many reported being reduced to "tears of laughter" and praised the "wholesome bunch and concept". Calls for a second season were immediate and widespread. Specific comedians, particularly Bob Mortimer, were lauded as "national treasures".

Professional critics and reviewers offered a more varied assessment. Many shared the audience's enthusiasm. Voice Magazine called it "absolute magic" and praised the cast and format's simplicity, seeing potential for it to run like the acclaimed Taskmaster. Chortle found it a strong adaptation benefiting from the A-list cast's familiar dynamics. The Spectator deemed it "surprisingly funny and horribly addictive" , while TechRadar declared it potentially the "funniest [show] I've ever seen". Reviewers highlighted the diverse comedic styles on display, from absurdism and slapstick to witty wordplay.

However, not all reviews were glowing. Some critics found the premise wore thin or felt the execution was flawed. One reviewer for The Reviews Hub, after seeing the first two episodes, expressed doubt about the show's sustainability. National World found it "fun" but suggested it felt too much like "just another UK panel show" and could benefit from format tweaks and a less predictable cast, contrasting it with the perceived rawness of the Japanese original. The Church Times reviewer admitted finding the start "stilted" and "awkward" before eventually being won over.

This critical nuance was mirrored by some audience members. Amidst the widespread praise, pockets of viewers expressed disappointment online, describing the show as "awkward" , "forced" , "rubbish" , or simply "not funny". Some found the core concept of suppressing laughter in a comedy show inherently "unpleasant" , while others felt too many smiles or minor laughs were overlooked by the hosts, particularly compared to stricter judging in other international versions. Comparisons were inevitably drawn with other iterations; while some found the UK version superior to the Irish one , others felt the Irish version was weak but still preferred British comedians generally.

This suggests a gap between the show's undeniable mass appeal, reflected in the high viewership and fervent fan reactions, and a more measured critical perspective. While millions evidently found the show hilarious and engaging, some critics and viewers pointed to potential format fatigue, predictability in casting, or found the central conceit less effective than intended. The "sensation," therefore, appears largely driven by popular audience connection rather than universal critical acclaim.

Anatomy of a Non-Laugh: Key Moments and Comic Strategies

The six-hour confinement created a unique pressure cooker environment, forcing comedians to deploy various strategies while resisting the urge to crack. The series was defined by standout performances and memorable moments that fuelled audience discussion.

Undoubtedly, the star who shone brightest was Bob Mortimer. His performance became a phenomenon in itself, widely shared and celebrated online. His segments – including a deadpan magic show involving carrots , surreal anecdotes during a mock speed-dating challenge , showcasing his "newsreader skills" , and ultimately clinching victory by reading increasingly absurd jokes from a book to a beleaguered Richard Ayoade – were consistently highlighted as moments of comedic genius. His gentle, unpredictable absurdity proved devastatingly effective, cementing his status as the show's MVP and eventual winner.

Richard Ayoade provided the perfect foil. His strategy was one of extreme deadpan resistance and aloof detachment, claiming he hadn't "laughed since the 1990s". His apparent disdain for the proceedings, including mock escape attempts , made him seem impregnable, a final boss for the other comedians. His eventual, almost reluctant, cracking under Mortimer's final assault became one of the series' defining moments.

Other contestants carved out memorable niches. Joe Wilkinson earned praise for his 'joker' round – a surprisingly poignant, then absurd, speech about the RNLI – and his signature sullen persona. Lou Sanders adopted an "incredibly aggressive" strategy, directly confronting opponents and engaging in intense stare-downs, notably with Joe Lycett. Judi Love employed the tactic of constantly eating to maintain composure , while also engaging in deadpan flirting with Ayoade and introducing a "furry friend".

Joe Lycett deployed unusual compliments and physical comedy, including pratfalls. Daisy May Cooper, known for being easily amused, provided tension through her visible struggle to maintain composure. Harriet Kemsley, perhaps the least known of the cast , conveyed a constant state of wide-eyed panic. Rob Beckett, embodying his South London everyman persona , delivered sharp wit and reached the final three after a touching tribute to his grandmother early on.

Key structural moments punctuated the simmering tension: Jimmy Carr issuing challenges or punishments via cards , the introduction of unsettling guests (one with an "occult" vibe) , a surprise celebrity invading Rob Beckett's personal space , a difficult singing challenge , and tense head-to-head battles to eliminate finalists.

The comedians' strategies varied widely. Some, like Sanders, went on the offensive. Others, like Ayoade, relied on stoic defence. Props and physical comedy were common tools , while mundane conversation often caught opponents off guard. Some contestants reportedly resorted to simply avoiding interaction to minimise risk. The dynamic was shaped by the cast's familiarity; knowing each other's comedic styles and potential weaknesses allowed for targeted attacks, but also generated a palpable sense of shared experience and mutual respect.

Prime Video's Big Bet: LOL UK's Place in the Streaming Wars

The success of Last One Laughing UK is significant not just as a standalone hit, but also within the broader context of Amazon Prime Video's strategy in the competitive UK streaming market. Positioned as a major UK Original production , it sits alongside other high-profile investments like Clarkson's Farm, The Rig, The Devil's Hour, and Good Omens as part of Amazon's effort to build a compelling slate of local content.

The impressive viewership figures (6.1 million) and chart dominance (#1 position) serve as strong validation for Amazon's decision to import and localise the hugely successful global LOL format. As noted by Broadcast, the show's impact was seen as "more than just a (very) funny show," hinting at its strategic importance in attracting and retaining subscribers. It demonstrates Prime Video's ability to tap into the specific tastes of the UK audience, particularly its deep-seated appreciation for panel show-style comedy and its established stars. This capability is crucial in competing with rivals like Netflix, which also invests heavily in local productions.

The UK iteration adds another successful chapter to the global Last One Laughing franchise narrative. Its strong performance reinforces the format's power and adaptability across diverse cultural contexts. The success in the UK, a major media market with a vibrant comedy scene, further solidifies LOL as one of Amazon's most valuable international properties.

Within the UK comedy scene itself, the show served as a high-profile platform, primarily for comedians already well-established through television appearances. It effectively leveraged the existing ecosystem of talent frequently seen on Channel 4, BBC, and Dave. While this guaranteed audience recognition, it also led some critics to suggest that future series could benefit from including up-and-coming comedians, similar to how Taskmaster has successfully introduced newer talent to mainstream audiences. This raises broader questions about the role of major streaming platforms – are they primarily vehicles for leveraging existing fame, or can they also be effective launchpads for new voices?

Given the audience's enthusiastic response and the strong viewing figures, a second series of Last One Laughing UK appears highly probable. Industry commentators deemed a recommission "very likely" shortly after the initial performance data emerged , and fan demand remains high.

Conclusion - The Last Laugh: A True Sensation?

So, does Last One Laughing UK live up to its billing as a "comedy sensation with over 6 million viewers"? Based on the available evidence, the answer is a resounding yes, albeit with some qualification.

The viewership figures are undeniable. Attracting 6.1 million viewers in its first 28 days is a significant achievement in the UK streaming market, placing it firmly among Prime Video's top performers. Its ability to top the platform's charts and even lead the entire UK streaming landscape in its launch week speaks volumes about its immediate impact and broad appeal.

The audience response was overwhelmingly positive, bordering on rapturous. Social media buzzed with praise, memorable moments were widely shared, and the demand for more is palpable. Performers like Bob Mortimer enjoyed a renewed wave of appreciation, his contributions becoming cultural touchstones. In popular terms, the show undoubtedly generated the excitement and engagement characteristic of a "sensation."

However, this popular success existed alongside a more measured critical reception. While many reviewers enjoyed the show and praised its cast, others pointed to potential weaknesses in the format's long-term appeal, its reliance on established formulas, or found the execution occasionally awkward.

Ultimately, Last One Laughing UK succeeded by effectively translating a proven global format for a UK audience, leveraging the nation's rich pool of comedic talent and its familiarity with panel show dynamics. It provided hilarious, escapist entertainment that clearly resonated with millions, delivering a significant strategic win for Amazon Prime Video. Its legacy lies in demonstrating a potentially potent formula for streaming success – combining a globally tested concept with beloved local stars – and in creating genuinely memorable moments of comedy under pressure, ensuring that, for its vast audience at least, the show truly delivered the last laugh. A second series seems not just likely, but eagerly anticipated.

LOL Last one Laughing Comedian Lou Sanders at Comedy in Your Eye

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