The BBC drama 'Best Interests', created by Jack Thorne of 'Adolescence' fame, has arrived on Netflix, quickly climbing the platform's most-watched chart. The four-part series originally aired on BBC One in 2023 and follows parents Andrew (Michael Sheen) and Nicci (Sharon Horgan) as they face an agonizing decision about their daughter Marnie's life.
Plot Overview
Marnie was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy as a baby after suffering a severe cardiac arrest. Doctors informed the family that the condition was incurable and that Marnie would "further deteriorate," with her "life will not be a full one." By age 13, Marnie is left brain damaged and entirely reliant on a ventilator to survive.
Dr. Samantha (Noma Dumezweni) suggests that it would be in Marnie's "best interest" to be taken off life support. Nicci fights the hospital in court, while Andrew finds himself agreeing with the medical team, creating a devastating rift between the parents.
The Heartbreaking Ending
In the fourth and final episode, the court rules in favor of the hospital, deciding that turning off Marnie's life support is in her best interest. Nicci sobs as the verdict is read but eventually comes to accept the outcome and reconciles with Andrew. Together, they go to the hospital to say goodbye to their daughter as she is taken off the ventilator.
Nicci tells Andrew: "I don't know where we're going, but we're going together." The episode ends with the couple and their oldest daughter Katie in the car, sharing memories of Marnie and how they "made her happy." Katie suggests they go for dinner before a flashback shows the family-of-four enjoying a picnic on a hill when Marnie was a baby.
Critical and Audience Response
Viewers have described the drama as "terrific, powerful" and "the BBC at its best." One viewer said: "This is the BBC at its best, this is an outstanding drama." Another commented: "A powerful and heartbreaking drama. The only reason I could advise against seeing it is that it might break your heart." A third echoed: "Excellent writing, directing and editing shine through, highly recommended," while someone else added: "You will be in tears."
'Best Interests' is now available to stream on Netflix.
