Who performed the theme music for The Office (UK)?

Big George performed the theme music for The Office (UK), an arrangement of “Handbags and Gladrags.” The musician’s full name was George Webley, and he was known professionally as Big George.

The song itself was not originally written for the sitcom. Mike d’Abo wrote it in the 1960s, and Rod Stewart’s arrangement helped shape the version familiar to television audiences. Big George adapted the song specifically for The Office, creating the short instrumental opening heard over the titles.

The music is often confused with Rod Stewart’s recording or the later Stereophonics cover. Those artists recorded notable versions of “Handbags and Gladrags,” but neither performed the sitcom’s opening theme. The programme also used vocal and alternative versions, including a performance by Ricky Gervais as David Brent in one episode.

Big George was also associated with other British television themes, including Have I Got News for You, Room 101 and The Graham Norton Show. His work gave The Office a recognisable, slightly melancholy opening that suited its mockumentary style.