Channel 5's new thriller Number One Fan has drawn criticism from viewers who describe it as 'ridiculously bad', despite its star-studded cast. The four-part series features former Coronation Street actors Sally Lindsay and Jill Halfpenny, but critics argue the plot is too preposterous to take seriously.
The show follows Lucy Logan (Halfpenny), a beloved daytime TV presenter who becomes the target of a stalker named Donna (Lindsay). After a chance encounter in a supermarket car park, Donna ingratiates herself into Lucy's life, leading to escalating harassment. Viewers have pointed out multiple plot holes, including the implausible ease with which Donna gains access to Lucy's home and workplace.
One viewer tweeted: 'This is the worst thing I've ever seen. The acting is fine but the story is just nonsense.' Another said: 'I couldn't stop laughing at how ridiculous it was. Every twist is predictable and the logic is non-existent.'
Despite the backlash, some have praised the performances of Lindsay and Halfpenny, noting that they 'are incapable of hitting a false note'. The series also features subplots involving Lucy's husband's financial troubles, her son's involvement with an eco-activist group, and a mysterious truffle-sender who may be connected to the stalking.
While the drama may not be 'wildly sophisticated', it offers 'four hours of harmless fun' for those willing to suspend disbelief. However, for many viewers, the lack of realism has proven too much to overlook.
