I don't watch much US talk and satire shows, but I was aware of a Brit called John Oliver was working there. I didn't realise he was from my home town of Bedford. He did a rundown of events there with Stephen Colbert. The local media were probably glad of something to report. It really isn't the most lively place, but it's not too bad to live there. I've lived in the Bedfordshire small town of Arlesey for some years, but still have family in Bedford. The Shuttleworth Collection they mention is a cool aircraft museum near here where they fly the old planes sometimes.
There is life outside the big cities. Enjoy what you have.