20 Best British TV Comedy Characters Of All Time

Gavin & Stacey is a simple storyline of two ordinary people – Gavin Shipman from Billericay, Essex and Stacey West from Barry, near Cardiff – who take their over-the-telephone romance to the next level by meeting in person for the first time ever. The series follows how their relationship develops onwards from engagements, marriage, getting a first home together and starting a family of their own.

But despite Gavin & Stacey being the main bulk of the storyline, it’s actually the supporting characters who steal the limelight for their colourful quirks. There’s Nessa, who has had a string of various jobs and celebrity connections, Pete and Dawn, who have such a rocky relationship that it’s surprising how they haven’t divorced yet, as well as an ongoing secret about what really happened on a mysterious fishing trip between Uncle Bryn and Jason.

Ultimately though, Pam is the funniest of the lot. You either identify personally with her or you know someone who is exactly like her. With an infectiously strong Essex accent, Pam is the bubbly, somewhat overbearing mother of Gavin Shipman who knows how to have a good laugh with all those around her. She has a bad habit of being too honest and accidentally insulting people. She is also hilariously melodramatic with her catchphrase “Oh my Christ!” being frequently quoted by fans in real life.

Although Pam can be a bit ditsy and overreact occasionally, it’s all done in love as she’s just doing her best for all of her family and friends in order to keep everyone happy.