A new Welsh workplace sitcom, Hard Shoulder, has quietly arrived on BBC iPlayer, and it may have slipped under the radar for many viewers. The show centres on Eric, a car mechanic who goes beyond simply fixing vehicles during his shifts.
Eric often finds himself distracted by helping his clients sort out problems in their personal lives before he turns his attention to their cars. A synopsis for the series teases: "Eric is not your average car mechanic. He can do both: fix your car and your life, whether you want him to or not."
However, with his boss pressuring him, Eric faces mounting pressure to focus on the job he is paid to do, complete repairs quickly and improve his numbers. The synopsis adds: "It will require more action than conversation, but can Eric resist the urge to solve people's problems as well as their cars?"
Cast and Creative Team
The opening episode was released on iPlayer on October 30, with Rings of Power star Owain Arthur taking on the role of Eric. The Welsh actor may also be familiar to viewers from his recent appearance in the ITV crime drama Believe Me. In Hard Shoulder, Arthur shares the screen with House of the Dragon actor Tom Bennett.
The "playful" comedy was written by Cardiff-based writer Paul Allen and directed by Matt Lipsey, known for directing Apple TV's hit drama Ted Lasso.
Fan Reactions and BBC Cymru Wales Pilot Season
Fans expressed their excitement when a teaser for the show was released earlier this week. One supporter commented on Instagram: "Looking forward to seeing this! X." A second person praised: "Very excited to see you back on the screen xxxx," while a third added: "This looks fantastic!"
Hard Shoulder is part of BBC Cymru Wales's season of pilot scripted content, which includes four short-taster films created by established and emerging Welsh creatives. Nick Andrews, Head of Commissioning for BBC Cymru Wales, said: "BBC Cymru Wales is delighted to be supporting world class Welsh talent and creatives through these four scripted pilots."
He added: "We have a strong track record in taking creative risks and piloting distinctive content for Wales. The four production companies are to be commended for developing and producing four unique and highly original films, each with its own distinct voice and style."
Although Hard Shoulder is not set in a traditional office, the show features dry humour that fans of series like The UK Office and The IT Crowd are likely to enjoy. Hard Shoulder is now available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
