Diane Morgan's new BBC comedy series Ann Droid has left viewers divided, with critic Charlotte Minter describing it as a frustrating experience despite the comedian's undeniable talent. The show, co-written by Morgan and Sarah Kendall, follows a grieving widow named Sue (Sue Johnston) whose adult son Michael (Paul Ready) buys her an Elder Care robot named Linda, played by Morgan.
Morgan's Uncanny Robot Performance
Morgan's portrayal of the AI robot Linda is technically impressive, with meticulous attention to robotic movement and speech. However, this very realism becomes a source of irritation for some viewers. Minter notes that Linda's inability to grasp social cues and her monotone voice trigger frustration, similar to interactions with smart home devices like Amazon Alexa. The critic admits to feeling 'irrationally boiling' when Linda blasts upbeat music at inappropriate moments.
Mixed Performances and Pacing Issues
While Sue Johnston delivers a predictably strong performance as the grieving widow, the series is let down by pacing issues and a lack of comedic punch. Paul Ready, known for his role in Motherland, brings a similar awkward energy but lacks enough funny moments to avoid being annoying. A standout is Andrea Valls as Michael's unfaithful wife Renee, a BJJ-obsessed health conspiracist, whose comedic timing shines.
Genre Confusion and Unfulfilled Potential
The series struggles to balance comedy and drama, leaving viewers unsettled. Minter expected either a moving exploration of technology replacing humans or a silly robot comedy, but Ann Droid falls between both. The predictable storyline and lack of a big climax contribute to a feeling of being 'stuck'. Despite its poignant commentary on ageing and social care, the show fails to deliver the laughs or tears it aims for.
Ann Droid is available to stream on BBC iPlayer, with six episodes in its first season. As of writing, it has not been renewed for a second season.
