Mackenzie Crook, the acclaimed creator, writer, and director behind the BBC comedy sensation 'Small Prophets,' has opened up about the show's future following its staggering success. The series, set in Manchester, premiered in February on BBC Two and quickly captivated audiences, amassing an impressive 7.7 million views for its first episode within 28 days. This figure marks it as the BBC's biggest new scripted launch of the year and the most-watched comedy episode debut since 'Ludwig' in 2024, excluding specials.
Record-Breaking Launch and Fan Acclaim
The show's premiere episode outperformed previous hits, including 'The Detectorists' 2022 Christmas Special, which had 4.5 million viewers, making 'Small Prophets' the channel's top comedy episode in over a decade. Crook, a Bafta winner known for his work on 'The Detectorists,' expressed immense satisfaction with the response. He stated, 'I couldn't be happier with the response to Small Prophets. The feedback from the audience, the reviews, and figures have been better than I dared to hope.'
Creative Journey and Magical Realism
Crook revealed that the idea for 'Small Prophets' was meticulously developed over approximately ten years, benefiting from what he described as 'slow percolation.' The series blends magical realism with heart-warming storytelling, following protagonist Michael Sleep, played by Pearce Quigley, as he discovers prophesying spirits with the help of his dad, portrayed by Michael Palin, and colleague Kacey, played by Lauren Patel. This supernatural yet mundane narrative has resonated deeply with viewers.
Online reviews have praised the show's unique charm. User Jo on X highlighted its 'gentle humour,' noting, 'Great actors and storyline. Just the right length. Held interest throughout the series.' Similarly, Ribbitor123 on Reddit commended Crook's script for 'perfectly balancing the supernatural with the mundane and inspiring you to take a closer look at your own surroundings.'
Production and Cast Details
Produced by Gill Isles, the team behind 'Alma's Not Normal,' 'Small Prophets' features a talented cast including Sophie Willan, star and creator of 'Alma's Not Normal,' and Jon Pointing from 'Big Boys.' Fans have lauded the series for its distinctly British feel and emotional depth. Ryan Love on X described it as 'the kind of show that just feels so uniquely British and the best of BBC,' while @TAFKASB called it 'another incredible BBC production.'
Future Prospects and Availability
In a hopeful note for fans, Crook ended the series with a 'to be continued' message, indicating potential future episodes. He remarked, 'I ended Small Prophets with "to be continued" and I hope that is a promise I can keep in the not-too-distant future.' Currently, all episodes are available for streaming on BBC iPlayer, allowing new viewers to join the millions who have already embraced this critically acclaimed comedy.
