“Brilliant” BBC sitcom branded a “perfect TV show” and starring British comedy legend trends in UK

by

Mackenzie Crook’s new BBC sitcom, Small Prophets, is now streaming on BBC iPlayer and has quickly become one of the platform’s most popular shows. The series follows a solitary man who unexpectedly encounters the supernatural, all starting from a shed in his backyard.

Mackenzie Crook, known for his role in The Office, is the star, creator, and writer of a new series set in Manchester. He co-wrote the show with Pearce Quigley (also known for Detectorists) and comedy icon Sir Michael Palin. The story follows Michael, played by Quigley, as he investigates his girlfriend’s disappearance, with a surprising lead coming from his father, Brian (played by Palin).

In an interview with Radio Times, Quigley called Small Prophets “the perfect TV show.” He went on to praise the show’s creator, Mackenzie, saying, “I genuinely think Mackenzie is a genius. The way the story unfolds slowly and with unexpected twists is just brilliant.”

What to Read Next

Sir Michael Palin returns to television with this new comedy series after a seven-year break. He was particularly attracted to the show’s unique storytelling style. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today program (as reported by BBC News), Palin explained that the writer, [Crook], portrays characters with genuine warmth. He highlighted that even minor characters get meaningful moments – often just a line or two – that are carefully crafted and thoughtfully delivered by the actor.

He explained that Mackenzie’s writing is deeply personal. When it resonates with readers, it’s incredibly rewarding because it’s so understanding and compassionate towards people.

The new six-part series is receiving excellent reviews. The Independent gave it four stars, calling it funny, strange, and surprisingly easy to enjoy, even with its magical elements. The reviewer compared it to Detectorists, praising its ability to find emotional depth in ordinary moments, but noted the secrets hidden within this show are much more unusual. Overall, Small Prophets is described as a rewarding and worthwhile watch.

I was so thrilled to see The Guardian give it a full five stars! They called it “truly fantastic” and even said it was “an impossible marvel of TV making” – honestly, I couldn’t agree more. It really is something special.

Fans on IMDb have also been raving about Small Prophets. “You won’t be able to resist watching the whole series in one sitting,” one said, while another branded it “brilliant”.

Another viewer, who gave it 10/10, called it “wonderful”, before adding: “What TV needs more of…”

Small Prophets is available now on BBC iPlayer.

The latest issue of Living Legends, a vibrant 100-page magazine dedicated to Taylor Swift, is now available! You can find it in newsagents or order it online for only £8.99.

Read More

2026-02-10 20:19