Gregor Fisher for many years has attempted to shake off the shadow of 'Rab C. Nesbitt' but his attempts have generally been in vain. The problem that lies there is because he has portrayed the character for so long, viewers are unwilling to accept him in another role. Now, whilst there is no denying that he is a natural in the role, it is unfortunate that he has become typecast as Nesbitt for in my opinion he is a comedy legend in his own right. His first attempt to replace Rab was in 2000 when he took on the leading role in 'Brotherly Love' in which he played a pompous doctor who reunited with his estranged brother. It was not particularly successful and lasted only seven episodes. His next show 'Snoddy' ( made in 2002 which cast him as a corrupt police officer ) fared even worse ( though I rather liked it ) and to this day has never been broadcast outside of Scotland and finally in 2008 he starred alongside Billy Boyd in this witty little series penned by Iain Connell and Robert Florence.Jacky Allen and Tony MacBryan both work for a property maintenance firm named Greater Glasgow Building Services. During their shifts they tend to indulge in a world of fantasy, often enacting comedic stints as well as taking Polaroid photos of themselves, dating it and hiding it either behind a radiator or under a floorboard. Jacky is happily married to his wife Cathy ( who is never seen ) whilst Tony seems to lead a troubled marriage with his ( also unseen ) wife Linda.The only other recurring character in the series is the plumber Barry ( played by Tom Urie ) whose attire and large moustache make him look not unlike 'Super Mario', hence Jacky and Tony's nicknaming him 'Super Bario'. Barry has never played or even heard of the 'Super Mario' games and doesn't understand the joke.My favourite episode in the series saw Jacky and Tony renovating the house of an old woman with dementia whose rap artist son ( played excellently by Steven McNicoll ) is determined to get his hands on his mother's house, in the face of opposition from our heroes. Both Billy and Gregor hammed it up joyously for all it was worth, particularly Gregor whose Jacky was a world away from Rab. I am not a huge fan of Billy Boyd but his portrayal here of Tony redeems some of the garb he has done before or since.Though a ratings success, 'Empty' never made it past the first series. A great shame its possibilities were never realised. It certainly is a great deal more entertaining that Connell and Florence's later ( and frankly awful ) 'Burnistoun'.

I think Empty is a much overlooked and underrated gem. As previous reviews say, Billy Boyd and Gregor Fisher are perfect together and it is acted beautifully. I think the writing by comic talents Iain Connell and Robert Florence (Burnistoun) is subtle, gentle and touching. It is by turns both funny and poignant. It's unusual and feels sometimes more like a piece of theatre, with Tony and Jacky enjoying a creative and entertaining relationship that takes them to all sorts of places in their imagination.I love it :-)

I have to disagree that Billy's performance was "annoying to watch" His character, Tony was endearing, lovable and sweet. Billy managed to portray him as both funny and a bit sad at times. His Wonderwoman split personality performance was incredible. I was laughing but soon was moved to tears, what an unexpected twist. Billy's comic timing is impeccable and so much fun to watch. He has the acting chops to take on such outlandish situations and pull it off and make it look totally believable and funny.The writing was clever, original, funny and thought provoking and so well acted by both Billy and Gregor. Their chemistry was perfect together. And I am glad the writers took such great advantage of Billy's many talents and used him so well! Billy seems completely unafraid to push himself and take risks that are always a pleasure to watch.I hope to see a second season of Empty and Billy and Gregor!