From what I recall from my backpacking days near 20 years ago, Mr Bean used to be hugely popular in places like Thailand.

I think it was so popular in the Balkans because A) it was hilarious, B) people could actually watch it (on state TV, with subtitles). B is as important as A. Seinfeld would probably become very popular too, but no one could see it in the Balkans at the time.

In Czechoslovakia in 80s and 90s the most popular British TV series was Dempsey and Makepeace

I recall hearing (back in the day) that The Benny Hill Show was immensely popular in Germany even after its popularity had declined in the UK.

This is because it served as an accidental documentary and/or field guide for many micro entrepreneurs trying to break out during the autumn years of communist Yugoslavia.

The feeling lingers up to present - many still associate the word "entrepreneur" with at least slightly shady dealings.

If you work in tech in the valley, imagine how easily you could relate to Sillicon Valley (the show). It's the same for Only Fools and Horses for the 90s-00s Balkans.

Saved you a click: It's "Only Fools and Horses".