Netflix has thrilled fans of Ricky Gervais by sharing an exciting update on his next series, which promises to be a must-watch for those who loved After Life. The popular comedy-drama concluded four years ago, and this marks Gervais' first series for the streamer since then.
Ricky Gervais Returns to Animation
This time, Gervais is returning to the world of animation with an original series that will evoke nostalgia for fans of The Ricky Gervais Show with Stephen Merchant and Karl Pilkington. The new show, titled Alley Cats, is created and directed by The Office star, who also voices a leading role as a member of a gang of stray cats.
Netflix teases that the series follows the trials and tribulations of a group of feral British cats who seek companionship while ruminating about the struggles of everyday life. From the funny to the absurd, the series is packed with Gervais' signature style of heart and social commentary that audiences have come to expect.
Exceptional Animation and Release Details
The series boasts exceptional 2D animation by award-winning British animation studio Blink Industries, known for Dead End: Paranormal Park and Don't Hug Me I'm Scared. This week, Netflix confirmed the release date for the new series as Friday, 7th August, with all six episodes of the first season dropping at once.
Star-Studded Voice Cast
Co-starring with Gervais is a stellar line-up of British talent, including frequent collaborators from After Life and other projects. The main cast includes Tom Basden (The Ballad of Wallis Island), Andrew Brooke (PhoneShop), David Earl (Derek), Kerry Godliman (Trigger Point), Jo Hartley (Adolescence), and Diane Morgan (Motherland). All have previously appeared in After Life. Natalie Cassidy (EastEnders) and Tony Way (After Life, Mandy) will also take on featured roles.
The new image provides fans with their first look at the cast of cats, nestled together next to some wheelie bins as they look out over a city skyline.
Fan Excitement
Netflix's announcement has already sparked excitement among fans, who can't wait for the After Life cast to return to Netflix for more laughs. One X user said: "I'm laughing at this already after reading the cast.. This is going to be fun." Another replied: "If it's created by Ricky Gervais, I'll give it a shot." And a third fan predicted: "Ricky Gervais doing adult animation? That cast is ridiculously stacked. Alley Cats might be the sleeper hit of August."
Alley Cats premieres Friday, 7th August on Netflix.
