Whose Line is it Anyway is the first and only improvisational television programme to be
successful.
Originally a radio programme on BBC radio in 1988, WLiiA moved to television. The BBC didn't believe the show would last, so it moved to Channel 4. The British version, hosted by Clive Anderson, lasted ten years. It featured comedians such as John Sessions,
Stephen Fry, Josie Lawrence, Tony Slattery, Mike McShane, Greg Proops, Steve Frost, Colin Mochrie, and Ryan Stiles. In
1998, the show moved to America. Stiles pitched the show to ABC, which lasted five years, though new episodes from old recordings air occassionally. The American version, hosted by Drew Carey, help start Wayne Brady's career. Brady became a regular on the programme in 1999, alongside Mochrie and Stiles. The fourth seat featured a rotating roster of performers, including Greg Proops, Chip Esten, Brad Sherwood, and Kathy Greenwood.
Though the show is over, most of the cast still perform improv. Some of the British performers are members of the Comedy Store Players, and perform every weekend in London. Most of the American performers tour across the
United States and Canada.
