Watch Trying

Trying is a heartwarming and hilarious comedy-drama series on Apple TV+ that follows a young couple, Nikki and Jason, as they navigate the tricky waters of adoption after finding out they are unable to have a child of their own. The show, which premiered in May 2020, has been widely praised for its relatable characters, witty writing, and heartfelt performances.

The series stars Rafe Spall and Esther Smith as the central couple, with support from Sian Brooke and Oliver Chris as their close friends and family. Spall plays Jason, a fun-loving yet slightly directionless guy who works in a record store and dreams of starting a family with his longtime girlfriend, Nikki. Smith is Nikki, an intelligent and ambitious woman who is desperate to be a mother but struggles to come to terms with their fertility problems.

Trying starts with Jason and Nikki's journey to becoming parents. They go through the difficult process of applying to adoption agencies, meeting with social workers, and attending adoption classes. Along the way, they encounter various setbacks and hurdles, including a mismatch with their first potential child and a surprise appearance from Jason's estranged sister.

But what makes Trying different from other shows about couples hoping to adopt is its realistic portrayal of the adoption process. The show does not sugarcoat the challenges of adoption, from the invasive background checks to the often arbitrary decisions made by social workers. But it also celebrates the joys of building a family, even if that family may not look like what the couple originally planned.

Throughout the series, Jason and Nikki lean on each other for support as they face the ups and downs of adoption, but they also turn to their friends and family for guidance. Brooke plays Erica, Nikki's best friend and confidante, who offers a listening ear and a practical perspective on their situation. Chris portrays Freddy, Jason's best friend and roommate, who provides a comedic foil to the more serious moments.

But Trying is not just a show about adoption. It also explores the larger themes of love, friendship, and finding one's place in the world. The show does an excellent job of balancing the emotional moments with lighthearted humor, and the result is a truly enjoyable watch.

One of the standout aspects of Trying is the chemistry between Spall and Smith. The two actors have a natural ease with each other that makes their characters' relationship feel authentic and grounded. They make you root for them as a couple, even when they are at odds with each other.

Overall, Trying is a delightful series that combines heart and humor in equal measure. It is a must-watch for anyone who has ever had to navigate the complex world of adoption, but it is also a show that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with the challenges of starting a family. It is a true gem in the Apple TV+ lineup and well worth a watch!

Trying is a series that ran for 4 seasons (32 episodes) between May 1, 2020 and on Apple TV+