American journalist Eric Weiner, in his book 'The Geography of Bliss', states: "I feel sorry for the Brits, they don't just enjoy misery, they get off on it."

But with 'House' as one of America's most popular TV shows, perhaps our British cynicism is finally getting through to the masses! Take these grumpy TV characters who are always great for a giggle.

Played by Hugh Laurie

Putting on his finest American accent and oozing wit and darkly sarcastic put-downs, the intelligent and insulting MD sums up his self-centred brilliance with: "Like I always say, there is no 'I' in 'Team'... there's a 'Me' though, if you jumble it up."

Buy 'House Season Five' from Amazon