The BBC's critically acclaimed four-part drama Best Interests, starring Welsh actor Michael Sheen and Irish star Sharon Horgan, began streaming on Netflix on 10 July 2026. The series, written by Adolescence creator Jack Thorne, has been hailed as "the BBC at its best" by viewers and holds a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Plot and Cast
The series centers on Nicci (Horgan) and Andrew (Sheen), a married couple facing an agonizing decision when doctors recommend withdrawing life-sustaining treatment for their 13-year-old daughter Marnie (Niamh Moriarty), who suffers from a rare form of muscular dystrophy. As medical professionals escalate the case to the High Court, the parents find themselves increasingly at odds over what is best for their child.
The supporting cast includes Alison Oliver, Noma Dumezweni, Chizzy Akudolu, Mat Fraser, Gary Beadle, Lucian Msamati, and Lisa McGrillis.
Critical and Audience Reception
Best Interests has garnered widespread praise since its original BBC broadcast. On Rotten Tomatoes, it boasts a 96% approval rating from critics, while audiences on IMDb have described it as "powerful and heartbreaking." One viewer commented: "Starring two great actors, Sharon Horgan and Michael Sheen, and written by one of our best British TV writers, Jack Thorne, my expectations were high and I wasn't disappointed."
Another added: "It's impossible to watch this story and not be deeply moved as it examines one of those dilemmas every parent prays they'll never face. It's emotional and raw and entirely convincing, not the easiest watch but an essential one not to be overlooked."
A third viewer enthused: "This is the BBC at its best. This is an outstanding drama. I've said many times that drama works when it makes you think, question and feel. This show prompted several passionate discussions at work, all of us had different opinions." A fourth remarked: "Excellent writing, directing and editing shine through, highly recommended."
Writer's Inspiration
Speaking to Deadline, Jack Thorne explained his motivation for creating the series: "Empathy is what telly does best," he said, "so being given an opportunity to look inside that dynamic and find the truth within that dynamic in a setting that feels real - that's what I live for."
Best Interests is streaming on Netflix now.
