Quick Read
- Mackenzie Crook’s new supernatural sitcom, ‘Small Prophets,’ premiered on BBC Two on February 9, 2026.
- Crook created, wrote, and directed the six-episode series, also starring in a supporting role as Gordon.
- The plot follows Michael Sleep (Pearce Quigley), who attempts to create homunculi through alchemy to find answers about his missing partner.
- Filmed in Manchester, the series blends quiet grief, offbeat humor, and supernatural elements.
- Critics, including the Financial Times, have praised the show as “unexpected and very charming.”
MANCHESTER (Azat TV) – Mackenzie Crook’s new supernatural sitcom, ‘Small Prophets,’ premiered on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 10 pm on BBC Two, introducing viewers to a unique narrative that blends quiet grief with offbeat humor and alchemical mystery. The series, which Crook himself created, wrote, and directed, centers on an eccentric man’s quest for answers through the creation of prophetic spirits, drawing immediate attention for its distinctive premise and charming execution.
The six-episode series, which airs weekly on Monday nights and is also available for streaming on BBC iPlayer, has been described by The Guardian as a “sweet, supernatural new sitcom.” It marks a significant return for Crook, known for his distinctive comedic and dramatic work, as he delves into a story that explores profound themes against a grounded, very British backdrop.
Mackenzie Crook’s Vision for ‘Small Prophets’
Mackenzie Crook is the creative force behind ‘Small Prophets,’ serving as its creator, writer, and director. He also takes on a supporting role as Gordon in the series. The narrative introduces Michael Sleep, portrayed by Pearce Quigley, a man whose life has been in stasis since his partner, Clea, vanished seven years prior. Living in Manchester, Michael becomes consumed by an ancient alchemical journal, believing its secrets can help him conjure homunculi—small, prophetic spirits that might reveal the truth about Clea’s disappearance.
This private experiment, initially confined to a suburban shed, gradually intertwines with the lives of his co-workers, neighbors, and unexpected allies. The series masterfully balances its comedic and dramatic elements by inserting magical ideas into everyday life, where seemingly minor decisions carry significant emotional weight, and curiosity often escalates into chaos, according to Reelgood. Michael Palin also stars as Brian, Michael Sleep’s father, who plays a crucial role in the unfolding alchemical mystery.
Plot and Thematic Depth of the New BBC Series
Each of the six tightly written episodes of ‘Small Prophets’ delves deeper into Michael Sleep’s obsession and its consequences. The premiere episode, which aired on February 9, saw Michael discover the mysterious alchemical recipe that promises answers about his lost girlfriend. Subsequent episodes will follow Michael as he transforms his shed into a secret laboratory, faces growing suspicion, and becomes entangled in police questioning after a witnessed crime.
The series explores universal themes of loss, hope, and the inherent human need for answers, even when those answers might drastically alter one’s reality. As tensions rise and strange behaviors escalate, Michael and his growing circle are forced to conceal the unnatural evidence of his experiments. The narrative builds towards a dangerous turning point, culminating in a finale where Michael must confront the questions he has long avoided. Filmed in and around Manchester, the series uses real suburban locations to ground its supernatural elements, enhancing its unique blend of genres.
Critical Reception and Accessibility of ‘Small Prophets’
Upon its premiere, ‘Small Prophets’ quickly garnered positive attention from critics, with the Financial Times praising it as ‘unexpected and very charming.’ The series is noted for its ability to blend understated British comedy with emotional drama, using humor as a vehicle to explore complex themes of grief and obsession. While generally accessible, the series is best suited for older teenagers and adults due to its mature themes and subtle dark humor, as highlighted by Reelgood.
Viewers in the UK can watch ‘Small Prophets’ live on BBC Two each Monday or stream all episodes on demand via BBC iPlayer with a valid TV licence. International audiences can access the series through BBC iPlayer by utilizing a reliable premium VPN and connecting to a UK server, ensuring they don’t miss Mackenzie Crook’s latest creative endeavor.
The premiere of ‘Small Prophets’ underscores Mackenzie Crook’s consistent ability to craft distinctive narratives that resonate with both critics and audiences, further cementing his reputation for delivering engaging, character-driven storytelling that transcends conventional genre boundaries.