It’s hard to believe that it’s already Thanksgiving here in the States and, as mind-numbing as it may be, Christmas is right around the corner. That said, it’s important to remember today as a day where it’s important to take a moment and think about family and friends and all the things you are truly thankful for.

Before we begin, however, this must be repeated. Please, everyone, as you prepare the Thanksgiving turkey this year, remember, the person in this video is a professional. Do not try this at home.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFgLrWiNHFc

Beyond the obvious thanks for family and friends here at Tellyspotting, there are a few additional thanks that I need throw out there before we settle down to a day of overeating. What are we thankful for? That’s easy.

Fawlty Towers – classic British comedy

– where would we be without Basil Fawlty and all the wonderful inhabitants of Fawlty Towers, the fictional hotel located in the seaside town of Torquay on the “English Riviera”. Yes, he’s a rude and snobbish hotel owner who’s lot in life is to be pleasant to people he despises, but, when it comes to comedy, there is no equal. This is comedy perfection compressed in only 12 episodes (yes, there are only 12 episodes that exist).

Downton Abbey – classic British drama

– While millions saw the 2011 U.S. premiere of ITV’s Downton Abbey as part of PBS’ Masterpiece series, the period drama, written by Julian Fellowes, was immediately recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the ‘most critically acclaimed television show’ of the year. Season 2 didn’t disappoint as it was obvious that the Dowager Countess was just getting warmed up. Season 3 premieres on PBS Masterpiece, Sunday, January 6, 2013.

Sherlock – classic British mystery

– The brilliance of creating a contemporary version of the Arthur Conan Doyle detective lies at the feet of co-creator/writers, Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss. Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman star as Sherlock and Dr. John Watson. While the move from Victorian England to the 21st century was a leap for Holmes purists, both Moffat and Gatiss were able to keep much of the traditional elements of the character while putting present day technology in the hands of the worlds greatest consulting detective. This is genius, plain and simple.

Red Dwarf – classic British science fiction

– Many will, no doubt, cringe at the notion that I am offering no public display of giving thanks for Doctor Who in the sci-fi category. The fact is, the boys of the ‘small rouge one’ deserve the nod this year as they came back (after 13 years, 3 if you count Red Dwarf: Back to Earth) on a mission to not only reclaim their rightful spot atop the British science fiction scrapheap but to make everyone worldwide forget that there was actually a ninth series back in 2009.

You, the classic reader and contributor to Tellyspotting

– Without you, Tellyspotting would be nothing. You’re the reason it began and you’re the reason it is still going strong after three+ years attracting British television fans around the world on a daily basis. You’re the reason we’ll continue to strive to be the #1 British television site in the U.S. every day. So, as we head towards the dinner table, thank you for being a part of Tellyspotting over the years. 2013 is going to be a great year for telly. Hope you come along for the ride.