‘Totally specific, yet completely universal’
Smoggie Queens ticks the box for representation, nations and regions AND being the winner of best comedy.
The series, which focuses on a chosen family of LGBTQ+ friends in Middlesbrough, had the judges saying: “Thank goodness for Phil Dunning.”
Dunning, who wrote the series and also plays Dickie, wanted to showcase his hometown as somewhere that people are proud to be from and highlight a queer community outside of the usual metropolitan centres like London or Manchester.
Inclusive, funny and smart, the series was praised for its combination of both character work and physical comedy.
One judge commented that it held that magical and much sought after combination of being “totally specific, yet completely universal”.
SHORTLISTED
Brassic
Calamity Films for Sky Max
Now in its sixth series on Sky Max, Brassic is now the longest running scripted show on Sky. The working-class comedy took on new challenges in this series, from a 1895-set flashback to a VFX crocodile.
Daddy Issues
Fudge Park Productions for iPlayer and BBC3
Daddy Issues launched on BBC3 to a swath of positive reviews. It showcases the comedic chops of lead actors Aimee Lou Wood and David Morrisey as a father and daughter duo forced together by unexpected pregnancy. The series creator Danielle Ward crafts a sitcom world that is comforting but also keeps the audience on its toes.
Dinosaur
Two Brothers for BBC3
When Evie suddenly gets engaged, her autistic sister Nina has to adapt to her life accordingly. Helmed by comedian, actress and writer Ashley Storrie, the series sets out to portray an autistic woman in a way that steers away from doom and gloom and educates people on the condition beyond the familiar cliches of Rainman - all while being an entertaining watch.
Only Child
Happy Tramp North for BBC Scotland
Tackling the often-tricky relationship between elderly parents and their offspring, Only Child showcases the chaos and love present between son Richard and his aging father Ken. The series was filmed entirely in Glasgow and Forres, with diversity and sustainability at the production’s forefront.
Trying
BBC Studios for Apple TV+
The heartfelt comedy series following London couple Nikki and Jason and their journey to becoming a family returned for a fourth series, with a time jump to show them as the parents of Princess and Tyler. Judges loved its warm familiarity.
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