Watch Ladhood

Ladhood is a coming-of-age comedy-drama series from the BBC that follows the life of Liam Williams, a fictionalized version of the show's creator and star. Set in the early 2000s, the show takes a nostalgic look at the awkwardness and challenges of growing up in a working-class neighborhood in England.

The series takes place over the course of many years, starting with Liam as a preteen and ending with him as a young adult in his mid-twenties. Along the way, we see him navigate the ups and downs of adolescence, including figuring out his sense of self, dealing with changes in his social circle, and grappling with the expectations placed upon him by his family and society at large.

One of the standout features of the show is the way it balances humor with heart. While there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, there are also poignant scenes that tackle serious issues such as mental health, addiction, and toxic masculinity. The show never shies away from the more difficult aspects of growing up, and as a result, it feels authentic and relatable.

The show's ensemble cast is also a major strength. Along with Liam, we meet his younger brother Jack (played by Oscar Kennedy), his best friend Ralph (played by Samuel Bottomley), and a host of other supporting characters who populate his world. Each character is fully realized and adds depth to the show's portrayal of small-town life in England.

As the series progresses, we see Liam and his friends navigate the challenges of high school, university, and early adulthood. Through it all, there are plenty of misadventures and moments of youthful indiscretion. But there are also moments of growth, as the characters confront their flaws and insecurities and strive to become better versions of themselves.

One of the key themes of the show is the idea that growing up is messy and imperfect. There are no clear-cut answers or easy solutions to the challenges that Liam and his friends face. But by embracing the messiness and embracing the complexity of life, they are able to move forward and find their place in the world.

Overall, Ladhood is a funny, poignant, and authentic portrayal of growing up in working-class England. It deftly balances humor and heart, and its many relatable characters ensure that viewers will find something to connect with. Whether you're a fan of coming-of-age stories or simply looking for a well-crafted comedy-drama, this show is definitely worth checking out.

Ladhood is a series that ran for 3 seasons (18 episodes) between November 24, 2019 and on BBC