Only Child

Richard pays a visit on his dad Ken, twelve months after his mother Jean died. Keen to pay a flying visit, Richard discovers his dad needing a little bit of care and support.

Are some of the reviews based solely on the first episode, that's what it looks like, a first episode that sets the scene, introduces the character and situation, but fails to provide the laughs, from episode two onwards, it finds its feet.

Gregor Fisher and Greg McHugh are great as the father and son combination, they bounce off one another well, I just loved the odd job man in episode two, he was hilarious.

Give it a chance, it may not always be side splitting, but it has its moments, and at times it can be rather moving.

Is it me or has Gregor Fisher transformed into Frank Carson, if ever a role comes up to play the famous comedian, Fisher gets the job.

The best new BBC comedy for a long time.

8/10.

I really wanted to like this with two actors having such good pedigree. Gregor Fisher and Greg McHugh (Rab C Nesbitt and Gary Tank Commander) but their past triumphs probably gave me high expectations that this would be funny.

Whenever I see a description now that says gentle or warm hearted comedy I expect to be disappointed and this lives up (or down) to my expectations.

I've watched two episodes and that's enough. If those have not raised a smile I don't think any masochistic additional viewing will help.

Pity.

It's alright going for pathos but don't call it a comedy if it doesn't raise a laugh.

I really enjoyed watching 'Only Child' with my parents. It's a heartwarming, funny show that explores the complexities of the parent-child relationship in later years, capturing moments that my parents shared with their parents and inevitable experiences for my future too!

The film conveys that despite shared frustrations, love remains ever-present. I think everyone that has older parents, or has been through it, should watch it - your guilt will slide away and you'll have a chuckle too.

Plus, it's funny-even with the subtitles on for my hearing-impaired parents!!

Ignore the negative reviews!

Only Child is a heartwarming and often hilarious comedy series that follows Richard, a man who returns home to visit his father, Ken, a year after the passing of his mother, Jean. What starts as a simple visit quickly turns into a realization that his father may need more help than he initially thought.

The show delicately balances humor and poignancy, exploring themes of family, aging, and the complexities of parent-child relationships. The chemistry between Richard and Ken, played by Greg McHugh and Gregor Fisher, is a highlight, their interactions filled with both affectionate bickering and genuine love.

While some may find the pacing a bit slow at times, the overall charm and relatable situations make Only Child a delightful and engaging watch. It's a show that resonates with anyone who has experienced the joys and challenges of family life.

I loved it. Bring on season 2.

Just finished binge watching the first series and having read poor reviews felt compelled to add my own. Thought it was understated, utterly charming and funny. The two main characters had good rapport, mainly due to the actors' portrayal and you could certainly identify with them. The humour was risky in parts which really made me laugh, but this was cleverly combined with an unassuming sensitivity. Despite their conflict and exasperation with one another, a genuine affection eventually broke through. It was extremely well written, a little reminiscent of After Life and I certainly hope that there will be a second series.