Creator Outlines Final Chapter for BBC's Enchanting Sitcom Success
The creator and director of the BBC's phenomenally successful sitcom Small Prophets, Mackenzie Crook, has addressed the future of the beloved series in a recent interview. The show, which premiered earlier this year, has captivated audiences with its unique blend of heartfelt comedy and magical realism, set against the backdrop of Greater Manchester.
Record-Breaking Launch and Critical Acclaim
Since its debut in February, Small Prophets has achieved remarkable viewing figures, with the first episode attracting 7.7 million viewers within a 28-day period. This performance has solidified its status as the BBC's most significant new scripted launch of the year to date. The series follows Michael, portrayed by Pearce Quigley, as he grapples with his partner's mysterious disappearance seven years prior.
In his quest for answers, Michael visits his father Brian, played by comedy legend Michael Palin, who possesses a journal containing a recipe to summon homunculi—magical beings capable of predicting the future. The narrative also explores Michael's touching friendship with his young colleague Kacey, played by Lauren Patel, who assists him on his journey.
Creator's Vision for a Conclusive Final Series
Despite the show's overwhelming success, Mackenzie Crook, who also stars in the series as Gordon, has revealed a definitive plan for its future. In discussions with Deadline, Crook expressed his desire to write a second and final series, consisting of eight episodes. He stated, "I want to write a second series. I want it to be eight episodes and then I want to leave it there."
Crook elaborated on his creative vision, explaining, "I haven't written it yet. I don't know exactly what happens, but I think that would be great. First half [ends with] to be continued. Second half; the end. And there's your story." This approach aims to provide a satisfying conclusion to the enchanting tale that has resonated so deeply with viewers.
Overwhelming Positive Reception and BBC Support
The series has been met with enthusiastic praise from both audiences and critics alike. Reflecting on the response, Crook told the BBC, "I couldn't be happier with the response to Small Prophets. The BBC comedy department has long given me the space, support and trust to make my shows and there is nowhere else I would rather go."
He added, "The BBC feels like home. I ended Small Prophets with 'to be continued' and I hope that is a promise I can keep in the not-too-distant future." Jon Petrie, Director of Comedy at the BBC, emphasised the exceptional nature of the series, noting its rare and magical quality.
Petrie remarked, "Small Prophets has been a brilliant success story. Loved by critics and viewers alike, it's exactly the sort of show the BBC does best. We knew it was a bit of a risk and involved a huge amount of trust, but we felt there was something incredibly special in it."
Production Details and Filming Locations
The six-part series was primarily shot in and around Urmston and Stockport in Greater Manchester. Crook humorously informed the BBC that he chose this location for filming due to the promise of 'guaranteed seven weeks of glorious unbroken sunshine', despite hailing from Maidstone in Kent.
A significant filming location featured throughout the series is The Garricks Head pub in Flixton, which was closed for two days last year to accommodate production. The show's unique setting and production values have contributed to its distinctive charm, with Petrie highlighting its "beautifully drawn comedic characters" and "almost fairytale quality."
As fans eagerly await news of the confirmed second series, Small Prophets continues to be celebrated as a rare and magical addition to the BBC's comedy lineup, with letters of appreciation still arriving daily and its legacy growing stronger with each viewing.
