Tim Vine Blurts Out Why He Quit Not Going Out

Not Going Out is one of Britain’s longest-running sitcoms, beloved for its rapid-fire jokes, slapstick humour, and charmingly chaotic characters. Created by and starring comedian Lee Mack, the show first aired in 2006 and quickly carved out a niche in British comedy for its traditional, gag-heavy format that harked back to classic sitcoms while still feeling modern and fresh. ▬Contents of this video▬ 00:00 - Intro 00:46 - Megan Dodds: The First to Leave 06:07 - Still Not Going Out 08:25 - Outro Like this content? Subscribe here:    / @factsverseuk   Or, watch more videos here:    / @factsverseuk   Set initially around Lee, a lazy, witty layabout living in a London flat, the early seasons featured Tim Vine as Tim, Lee's uptight best friend and the brother of Kate (Megan Dodds), Lee’s landlady and romantic interest. The chemistry between Mack and Vine was key to the show's appeal—Vine’s straight-laced, deadpan delivery was the perfect foil to Mack’s cheeky, fast-talking character. Their double act was central to the first few series, and their banter formed the comedic backbone of the show. However, as the years went on, the cast saw several changes. Megan Dodds left after the first series, and was replaced by Sally Bretton as Lucy, Tim's other sister, who eventually became Lee’s wife in the storyline. Perhaps most significant for long-time fans was Tim Vine’s departure after the fifth series. He left the show to pursue other projects, including stand-up comedy and his own television work. While his exit was amicable, it marked a turning point in the show’s tone. For many fans, Vine’s departure was bittersweet. His character had been a favourite, and his on-screen relationship with Lee was missed. Though the show adapted—moving into a more family-focused setup with Lee and Lucy married and raising children—some viewers still fondly remember the early days of flat-sharing and wordplay between Lee and Tim. Despite cast changes, Not Going Out has remained popular, proving that good writing and sharp humour can stand the test of time. Still, the absence of original cast members like Vine adds a touch of nostalgia and sadness for long-time viewers. Tim Vine Blurts Out Why He Quit Not Going Out