The Fast Show , known as Brilliant in the US, was a BBC comedy sketch show programme that ran for three series from 1994 to 1997 with a special Last Fast Show Ever in 2000. The show's central performers were Paul Whitehouse , Charlie Higson , Simon Day , Mark Williams , John Thomson , Arabella Weir and Caroline Aherne (1994–1997). Other significant cast members included Paul Shearer , Felix Dexter , Rhys Thomas , Jeff Harding and Donna Ewin .