3. Cultural Impact
This is a really tough call. Which of them has had the biggest impact culturally? Well, in terms of catchphrases, it's Jim Royle's 'My arse!" Vs Father Jack Hackett's 'Drink, Feck, Girls!' and I think Jim edges it, as more people tend to use the term (as well as Jim's various euphemisms for going to the toilet - 'drop the kids off at the pool', 'going for an Eartha Kitt' etc etc). Merchandise-wise, both shows have spawned the usual T-shirts and mugs, while DVDs for both shows have been released, with variations of DVD compilations being far larger in number on The Royle Family's part, due to the larger number of series and specials. The characters in The Royle Family are also more realistic and relatable, so the impression they leave on a personal level is stronger and the fact that it transcends genres (with heart-warming and upsetting content as well as comedy) it can reach and impact on a more varied audience. Winner: The Royle Family.