Bob and Margaret

Bob and Margaret is an animated sitcom created by Canadian company Nelvana. The series flourished between 1998 and 2001. It's uniquely voiced by starring actor Andy Hamilton. Earning considerable acclaim during its run, the series offers a humorous snapshot of everyday life through the antics and adventures of its two main characters.

The sitcom takes its name from the two protagonists, Bob and Margaret Fish, a middle-aged dentist and a foot doctor respectively. They lead an almost banal, humdrum life in a South London suburb. The character Bob is voiced by the charismatic British comedian and actor, Andy Hamilton. He’s best known for drop-dead-funny shows like 'Drop the Dead Donkey,' and 'Outnumbered'. His droll sense of humor and acute sense of timing bring depth and charm to the character of Bob, adding an extra level of enjoyment to the show.

The unique charm of Bob and Margaret is in its simplicity and its ability to find humor, humanity, and depth in the everyday routine - scenarios that anyone can relate to. Inspired by the ethos of British comedy, the show thrives on the mundane and captures the essence of mid-life filled with work-related angst, marital squabbles, neighborhood disagreements, and the search for meaning in routines.

Bob and Margaret's regular circle includes their nosy neighbors Peter and Susan, Bob’s dental secretary Judy, and their dogs William and Elizabeth. The depiction of these secondary characters is so articulate and amusing that they contribute to much of the situational humor in the series.

Even though set in Britain for the first two seasons, the sitcom made a surprising geographical jump to Canada in the third season. This shift is intended to bring a breath of fresh air into the storyline and to introduce a fresher perspective to the story. Therefore, while the sitcom’s address changed from South London to Canada's Toronto, the essence of the show remained rooted in its honest, insightful, and funny take on everyday life.

Animated in a distinctive style somewhat reminiscent of the British animated short "Bob's Birthday" that won an Academy Award, Bob and Margaret’s visual style is an aesthetic treat, drawing viewers into a colorful world where everyday incidents turn into humorous adventures.

One of the reasons why 'Bob and Margaret' stands out in the annals of animated sitcoms is its ability to steer clear of exaggerations and clichés that often characterize animation-based comedy. Instead, it thrives on the relatability of its characters and on the universal appeal of its humor. Enjoyment of the series doesn't depend on love for animation as a genre, but rather on appreciation for clever humor and sharp observations, making 'Bob and Margaret' an accessible watch for a varied demographic.

Over its four seasons, 'Bob and Margaret' consistently amused viewers with its understated humor, clever dialogue, well-developed characters, and unique comic situations. Andy Hamilton's voiceover performance as Bob is a significant driving factor behind the show's success. His wry observation and witty repartee bring a distinctive flavor to the show; effortlessly blending with the understated humor of the series.

In a nutshell, 'Bob and Margaret' is much more than just an animated sitcom. It is an accurate reflection of middle-age couple dynamics; a mirror held up to the everyday life of an ordinary suburban couple. Featuring an award-winning actor such as Andy Hamilton, the sitcom offers a seamless blend of sharp wit, warmth, and hilarity. It is a tribute to the collective talent of its creators, writers, and voiceover artists who were successful in crafting a show that will always be remembered for its charm, appeal, and unique take on the less-explored aspects of everyday life.