BBC audiences are buzzing with anticipation following the release of a first-look trailer for the upcoming comedy series Small Prophets, hailed by the broadcaster as "British comedy at its finest." The six-part show, created and written by The Office star Mackenzie Crook, promises a unique blend of humour, magic, and heartfelt storytelling.
A Magical Tale of Loneliness and Hope
The series centres on Michael Sleep, portrayed by Pearce Quigley, a man leading a decidedly mundane existence. Seven years after the mysterious disappearance of his beloved Clea, Michael spends his days working in a DIY store, eating Shreddies, and visiting his father, Brian, played by comedy legend Sir Michael Palin. His quiet life is upended when Brian shares an ancient, peculiar recipe involving rainwater, horse manure, and a touch of alchemy.
Intrigued yet sceptical, Michael embarks on a quest to create Homunculi—magical, prophesying spirits—hoping they can answer his burning question: will he ever see Clea again? He finds an unlikely ally in his young workmate, Kacey, played by Lauren Patel. Their friendship blossoms, partly through a shared disdain for their pedantic store manager, Gordon, a role taken by Mackenzie Crook himself.
Filmed in Manchester with a Stellar Cast
The series is filmed and set in and around Manchester, adding a distinct Northern flavour to its charm. The cast is rounded out by Sophie Willan and Jon Pointing as Michael's nosy neighbours, who become increasingly obsessed with the strange happenings in his garden shed. The trailer introduces viewers to this eclectic mix of characters, hinting at the comic frustration and intrigue that drives the narrative.
Fan reaction to the preview has been overwhelmingly positive. On social media, one enthusiast wrote, "Excited for this," while another declared, "Can't wait!" A third simply stated, "Looks amazing," reflecting the high expectations for the show.
Creative Vision and Long-Term Ambition
Mackenzie Crook, best known for his role as Gareth in The Office, revealed that the idea for Small Prophets has been "percolating for nearly a decade." He expressed delight at reuniting with friends and collaborators, including producer Gill Isles and co-star Pearce Quigley. Crook also fulfilled a long-term ambition by working with animators Ainslie Henderson and Will Anderson, whose contributions add a layer of visual wonder to the series.
Reflecting on his character, Gordon, Crook drew comparisons to his iconic Office role. "Pedantic and jobsworthy, he could be Gareth grown up, just with more disappointment, without the West Country accent," he told The Guardian. "I wrote Gordon as a monster, but by the end, I was actually quite fond of him."
Praise from the BBC and Production Team
Jon Petrie, BBC Director of Comedy, enthusiastically endorsed the series, stating, "BBC viewers are in for a treat with BAFTA winner Mackenzie Crook's Small Prophets. This magical comedy series brims with wit and wonder and is backed by a top-tier creative team and stunning animation."
Producer Gill Isles echoed this sentiment, saying, "I'm absolutely thrilled to be working with Mackenzie again on such a funny, beautiful, and unique show." Crook himself highlighted the thematic core of the series, noting, "I've always been fascinated by stories of lonely people. And I've also been fascinated by stories of ordinary people that something extraordinary happens to, and turns their life upside down."
Small Prophets is set to premiere on BBC Two and iPlayer from February 9, offering a fresh and whimsical take on comedy that blends the everyday with the extraordinary.
