THE SPITE-GEIST

Who can blame you for your guilty pleasure? It’s everywhere in pop culture

GAME OF SMIRKS

No Game Of Thrones character enjoys the suffering of others quite as much as Cersei Lannister. So it’s a shame when she finds herself walking the streets of Kings Landing naked in a show of humiliation. Or is it?

PEEP SHOW

The sitcom that’s built on two characters taking it in turns to revel in each other’s missteps – whether it’s failing at job interviews and relationships, or having to eat barbecued dog.

BITTERSWEET SYMPHONY

The hair, the outfits, the money. Sure, Cruel Intentions nailed the 90s, but it’s the cinematic schadenfreude that makes this film a modern classic. The moment Kathryn gets her comeuppance and The Verve kicks in? Delicious.

THE SIMPSONS

With his ubiquitous laugh that never gets old, Nelson Muntz is a master of the art of enjoying another’s misfortune. See too: Homer’s determined delight in every perceived failure of Ned Flanders.

FRIENDS

The constant ribbing of Ross’ inability to stay married, Chandler’s third nipple, Phoebe’s questionable musical prowess. Proof if needed that even the best of friends can take pleasure when their pals fail.