The BBC's critically acclaimed sitcom, Things You Should Have Done, has made a quiet yet impactful return with the release of six brand-new episodes on BBC iPlayer. Created by internet personality and comedian Lucia Keskin, known online as ChiwithaC, the series continues to captivate audiences with its offbeat humour and poignant storytelling.
A Unique Blend of Comedy and Tragedy
The show follows a fictionalised version of Lucia Keskin as she navigates the challenges of everyday life after being suddenly orphaned. The synopsis outlines her journey: 'Get a job! Pay the bills! Clueless Chi is forced to fend for herself when her parents die. To get her inheritance, the ultimate stay-at-home daughter has to step it up.'
In this latest season, Chi tackles a series of new tasks, ranging from attending therapy sessions and studying for GCSEs to attempting to find love, all with varying degrees of success. The narrative masterfully balances absurdity with underlying themes of grief and personal growth.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Adoration
Things You Should Have Done has garnered significant praise from both critics and viewers. The Guardian, in a three-star review, noted that the series 'shows flashes of brilliance,' highlighting a memorable scene where 'a horse – and a cleaner – being liberated to the sound of Spanish one-hit wonders Las Ketchup.'
The i newspaper awarded the first season four stars, describing Lucia Keskin as 'a master of deadpan comedy in this off-the-wall sitcom.' The Bafta-winning drama also features a talented cast, including newcomers Bridget Christie, Selin Hizli, Jamie Bisping, and Daniel Fearn, who contribute to the show's distinctive charm.
Social Media Buzz and Fan Reactions
Fans have taken to social media to express their enthusiasm for the new episodes. On X, Naomi wrote, 'Finished series two of my beloved Things You Should Have Done tonight, she’s the most underrated show on iPlayer.'
Betty Redondo added, 'Things You Should Have Done may not be everybody’s cup of tea but I’ve just watched all of series 2 in one go- unique; laugh out loud funny; surreal but with an undercurrent of sadness & grief.'
Other viewers, like cj, praised the writing and casting, stating, 'Binged through series 2 of Things You Should Have Done. It was absolutely fantastically written and played by Lucia Keskin. All the casting was also brilliant.' Graham echoed this sentiment, calling the show 'absolutely nuts, but it’s written beautifully.'
Creator's Insights on the New Season
Lucia Keskin has described the latest season as 'tragic, toxic, tacky,' offering a glimpse into the evolving character of Chi. She noted, 'She is a lot more confident this series I think, she shows a tiny bit more of her emotions which she struggles with but we see a bit more to her.'
This character development adds depth to the series, making it not only a source of laughter but also a thoughtful exploration of emotional resilience.
Streaming Availability
All episodes of Things You Should Have Done, including the new season, are currently available to stream on BBC iPlayer. The show continues to stand out as a unique offering in the BBC's comedy lineup, blending surreal humour with heartfelt moments.
As audiences discover or revisit this underrated gem, it reinforces the BBC's commitment to innovative and diverse storytelling in the realm of sitcoms.
