The Irish dark comedy thriller Obituary, which has drawn comparisons to the hit series Dexter, is now available to stream for free on ITVX. The show, which debuted on RTÉ in 2023 and returned for a second series in 2025, stars Siobhán Cullen (Bodkin, Babies) as Elvira Clancy, an obituary writer for a local newspaper.
Plot and Premise
When Elvira's tight-fisted editor informs her that she will be paid per obituary, she decides to take matters into her own hands by eliminating fellow townsfolk to keep the money flowing. The series synopsis reveals that upon being moved to a "pay-per-death" structure, Elvira "discovers she has a hidden talent for murder."
"By eliminating the town's most unlikable residents, she ensures both her job security and a steady stream of creative writing, all while trying to evade the suspicions of the town's handsome new crime reporter," the synopsis adds, as reported by the Mirror.
Second Series and Critical Reception
The second series picks up where the first left off, with Elvira struggling to cope with the loss of her beloved father. Once again, she seeks solace in killing, but this time finds herself pipped to the post by a mysterious new murderer. Local detective Detective Rose (Noni Stapleton) has Elvira firmly in her sights as the prime suspect, while Elvira becomes hell-bent on cracking the case.
The series holds a perfect Rotten Tomatoes score and has drawn comparisons to the hugely popular crime drama Dexter. One critic noted: "Imagine Dexter meets Bad Sisters, with a chilling yet somehow quite likable lead performance from Cullen, and you won't be far off."
Fan and Critic Praise
Fans have also praised the show. One viewer said: "There is Dexter, the mother lode of serial killer self-analysis, plus John Michael McDonagh movies The Guard and Calvary... But the show is ultimately a success because it transcends those comparisons to find its own peculiar pitch." Another added: "I binge-watched this series in three days. Excellent all around. Good acting, good story, many twists, and an all-around pleasure to watch. I was very surprised at how much I enjoyed this series."
"Can't recommend this enough. Great characters and with a great twisting storyline," yet another enthusiastic viewer added.
Cast and Streaming Details
Obituary, created by Ray Lawlor for RTÉ and first broadcast in 2023, boasts an impressive ensemble cast that includes Michael Smiley (Bad Sisters, Bloodlands), Ronán Raftery (Gangs of London, The Rook), and Danielle Galligan (House of Guinness, The Walsh Sisters). Máiréad Tyers (Extraordinary, My Lady Jane) also came on board during the second series. Seasons one and two of Obituary are streaming on ITVX.
