Watch Desmond's
- TV-14
- 2011
- 6 Seasons
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7.8 (1,091)
Desmond's was a British television sitcom that aired on Channel 4 from 1989 to 1994. Created by Trix Worrell, the show followed the lives of a close-knit Jamaican family living in Britain. The show was set in a barbershop owned by Desmond Ambrose (played by Norman Beaton), a friendly and charismatic Jamaican immigrant. The shop served as a gathering place for the local community, with customers dropping in to catch up on gossip, share a joke or two, and get a shave or a haircut. Along with Desmond, the barbershop was staffed by his son Michael (played by Norman's real-life son, Junior Beaton), a shy and introverted young man who dreams of becoming a writer.
Desmond's family members also played a major role in the show. His wife Shirley (played by Carmen Munroe) was a confident and sassy woman who managed to keep the family together through thick and thin. Their daughter Gloria (played by Kim Walker) was a wild and rebellious teenager who often clashed with her parents. Gloria's boyfriend, Matthew (played by Gyearbuor Asante), was a smooth-talking charmer who often got himself into trouble with his flirtatious ways.
Another regular character was Porkpie (played by Ram John Holder), a lovable rogue who hung out at the barbershop and got into all sorts of scrapes. Porkpie was known for his sharp wit, his flashy dress sense, and his habit of getting into arguments with anyone who crossed him.
Desmond's tackled a wide range of issues during its five-season run, including racism, identity, relationships, and family dynamics. The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of a working-class black community in Britain, with many viewers identifying with the characters and their struggles.
One of the show's most notable aspects was its use of Jamaican Patois, a creole language spoken by many of the characters. While this initially caused some controversy, with critics arguing that the show was difficult to understand for non-Jamaican viewers, it also helped to create a sense of authenticity and realism that set Desmond's apart from other sitcoms of the time.
Overall, Desmond's was a groundbreaking show that pushed the boundaries of what was possible on British television. With its witty dialogue, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, it remains a beloved classic of British comedy.
Desmond's is a series that ran for 6 seasons (136 episodes) between June 6, 2011 and on Channel 4