I wanted to see the original. It took some getting used to seeing different versions of all the characters I'm used to seeing on the American version, but now I'm hooked on both. I always find myself curious about how the cast and crew of each show would compare or contrast the two versions. Does David Threlfall feel ripped off by William H. Macy? They each bring their own unique perspective to the character of Frank. I think Macy's is a bit more dynamic, but Threlfall's Frank Gallagher is more forgiveable and sometimes even sympathetic. He's not quite as much of a total dirtbag as his American counterpart. In a lot of ways the American version of the show has pushed the boundaries and taken the story in a lot of directions that the original never really began to touch on. But when you start with an idea that's already been done, you have to build on it and maybe go a step or two further in order to make something new and unique as opposed to just a knock off. The Brits deserve credit for bringing the story to life in the first place for Showtime to start with. It would be interesting to know what each character thinks of their counterpart though. And one last thing: If I go to the American Shameless here on Amazon, will I find more reviews for the UK series? All the ones here seem to be for that one. Why don't people know what show they're reviewing before they post stuff?

Well, if you happened to be looking for the most uncouth, tasteless, iconoclastic, warped, twisted, unapologetic situation comedy on the market.....YOU FOUND IT!!! This is a series that pokes fun @ alcoholics, dysfunctional families & poor people (not necessarily in that order). Meet the Gallaghers: once you are drawn into their humble home, you'll never bee the same again!!

Frank Gallagher (William H. Macy) is a prototype deadbeat dad. No, he's more than that. If there were an award for "world's worst dad," Frank Gallagher would doubtlessly win. He has custody of his children (sort of) as his ex wife (Monica) is estranged. However, Frank Gallagher doing his familial duty is about as common as a Labrador singing Verdi opera. Frank is a drunk & puts more effort into trying to "game the system" of getting disability checks than he does into simply making an honest living.

Fiona (Emmy Rossum) is the catalyst of the show. She is by far the most likeable character & the one we empathize with the most. As the eldest daughter, she has taken it upon herself to take on the duties of being the surrogate mother of her younger siblings. She is often frustrated & overwhelmed with the tasks life has dealt her, but she still finds a way to face each & every day with her winning smile. Unlike her father, she works odd jobs & does her best to support the rest of her family.

Laura Slade Wiggins (Karen) delivers a command performance as the girl-next-door who is caught in the body of teenage girl with an overactive libido. Full confession: Laura Slade Wiggins has "got the goods." She is built like a cheerleader and she's the type of woman whom guys like me dream of taking to the mall. Her acting talents outstrip this role; I look forward to seeing more of her. For now, all I can say is....WOW!!!

Somewhat surprisingly, as raucous as this show is, it still finds a way to have some rather poignant, heart wrenching moments. While most of it is obnoxious humor, the fact that these moments exist in the series is profound. So, bottom line is, if you're looking for an off-the-wall adventure in Chicago, the Gallaghers would be elated to invite you over to their house. Be sure to accept the invitation! 8-)

Best show i have watched in years. Never gets hold hope it continues as long as the simpsons!!! If you haven't seen this show. you need to watch it. Its addicting, it never gets old, it keeps you guessing and when you guess your almost always wrong.

This show is perfection between the acting and the writing and storylines it's probably the best written show that you can find on TV at this moment in time. It's realistic and emotionally driven with comedic undertones. This thing I enjoy the most about this show is how well they have developed the characters. They haven't done what some shows do and that's put characters in situations that they'd never be in or react in ways that character would never react as. It's completely and utterly shocking how beautiful this show is.

This show is nothing short of a hot mess. It's vulgar & hilarious. It depicts the dysfunction of most families, but takes it to the extreme. I laugh (and I cry) when I watch it. I adore it.