Feel Good

BBC commissions two new comedies as part of search for next big UK sitcom

Two images. On the right-hand image, Ryan Dyland, Lee Dobbin and Rian Lennon stand in a dilapidated room, looking downwards. On the left-hand image, Elijah Young, Alexandra Mardell, Mark Benton, Phil Dunning, Patsy Lowe look into the camera

Smoggie Queens follows a group of friends down on their luck in Middlesborough who love their hometown, especially its LGBTQ+ scene. Writer Phil Dunning (Feel Good) stars as Dickie, and is joined by Mark Benton (Strictly Come Dancing), Alexandra Mardell (Coronation Street), Patsy Lowe (Vera) and Elijah Young. The gang struggle for acceptance, in a country that tends to turn its nose up at both Boro and the queer community. Spare a thought for those who belong to both. 

Mae Martin on Feel Good, imperfect love and TV's queer canon

Mae Martin in Feel Good (credit: Netflix)

Created by Canadian comedian Mae Martin, the hilarious, warm and deeply personal comedy-drama sees Martin play a fictionalised version of themself: a bi-sexual stand-up navigating a new relationship with their straight girlfriend George, played by Charlotte Ritchie (Ghosts), while trying to keep their addictive impulses at bay.

New series from comedian Mae Martin heads to Channel 4

(credit: Channel 4)

The six-part series, co-written with Joe Hampson, is a semi-autobiographical comedy following a recovering addict and comedian called Mae.

As Mae attempts to get her addictive impulses under control, an all-consuming relationship with her new girlfriend George, played by Charlotte Ritchie (Fresh Meat), throws life into further complication.

The series was conceived off the back of one of Martin’s stand-up routines about addictive behaviour, and explores concepts of gender fluidity and queer romance.