Mackenzie Crook’s breakout fantasy-comedy Small Prophets will return for a six-part second series, moving from BBC Two to BBC One after becoming the BBC’s biggest new comedy launch of the year.
The Channel Upgrade: Series 2 shifts to BBC One following a massive first run that averaged 6.3 million viewers across 28 days.
The Creative Core: Written and directed by Mackenzie Crook (Detectorists), produced by BAFTA-winner Gill Isles (Car Share).
The Cast: Stars Pearce Quigley, Sir Michael Palin, Lauren Patel, Sophie Willan, Jon Pointing, and Mackenzie Crook.
The Production: A 6x30’ co-production by Treasure Trove Productions and Channel X North, filmed in and around Manchester.
BBC Order Second Installment of Record-Breaking Fantasy Comedy
Following a phenomenal debut run, the BBC has officially recommissioned Small Prophets for a second series. Created, written, and directed by Mackenzie Crook, the whimsical comedy-drama proved to be a runaway hit on BBC iPlayer, securing its position as the broadcaster’s top new comedy series of the year.
The initial six-part series captivated audiences with its unique blend of ordinary British life and magical realism. Ratings reflected its massive digital appeal, averaging 6.3 million viewers over a 28-day window—with a staggering 82% of that audience (5.2 million) tuning in via BBC iPlayer. The series premiere continued to pull in viewers well beyond the initial broadcast window, eventually reaching 9.2 million viewers.
Given its extraordinary success, the broadcaster is rewarding the show with a move from BBC Two to the flagship BBC One channel for its upcoming second run.
Unraveling the Tale of Michael Sleep
Set and filmed in and around Manchester, Small Prophets centers on the eccentric Michael Sleep (Pearce Quigley), who works at a local DIY store while quietly holding out hope for the return of his partner, Clea, who vanished seven years earlier.
Sleep’s quiet routine is upended when his father, Brian (Sir Michael Palin), hands him an ancient recipe designed to create Homunculi—tiny, magical spirits capable of predicting the future. Joined by his co-worker Kacey (Lauren Patel), Sleep successfully summons the creatures in his garden shed.
As Sleep and Kacey forge a bond—fueled in part by their shared disdain for their store manager, Gordon (Mackenzie Crook)—their mysterious activities attract the unwanted attention of Sleep’s nosy neighbors, Bev (Sophie Willan) and Clive (Jon Pointing), who are desperate to uncover what is happening in the shed.
What the Cast and Crew Say About Series 2
Reflecting on the return of the show, creator and star Mackenzie Crook says: “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to tell the second half of this strange story and as intrigued as anyone else to find out what happens to Michael Sleep in his mystical quest. The prophets have foretold that series two will be happening next year and, as we know, they are compelled to speak the truth.”
Producer Gill Isles says: “It’s a real privilege to be producing the second series of Small Prophets. Mackenzie has created such a distinctive, magical world, and I can’t wait to return to Marvin Gardens and help bring this new chapter to life.”
Emma Lawson, BBC Interim Director of Comedy, adds: “We’re beyond delighted to be bringing Small Prophets back for a second series. Mackenzie has created a world packed with wonder, magic and unforgettable characters which feels completely unlike anything else on television and we can’t wait to see where the story takes us next. To be continued…”
Production & Distribution Details
Format: 6 x 30-minute episodes
Production Companies: Treasure Trove Productions & Channel X North
Commissioned By: Emma Lawson (BBC Interim Director of Comedy)
Writer / Director: Mackenzie Crook
Executive Producers: Mackenzie Crook and Lisa Thomas (Treasure Trove Productions); Alan Marke and Jim Reid (Channel X North)
International Distribution: Sphere Abacus
Series one of Small Prophets is currently available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
Head back to https://dailyedit.co.uk for more of the latest stories and features.
Don’t miss out! Get a 7 day free trial for full access to Daily Edit
For just £3.50 a month (approx $4.75 USD), a subscription to dailyedit unlocks total access.
It costs less than a single high-street coffee to upgrade and access every article on the website.
Subscribe today and get a 7 day free trial.
Claim a 30 day free trial at Prime Video
Claim your 30 day free trial at Prime Video and stream entertainment like The Grand Tour, Masters of the Universe and brand new Reacher.
Daily Edit
Discover curated travel guides, trending lifestyle tips, and the latest entertainment on Daily Edit—your daily destination for pop culture, escapes, and modern living. Subscribe today.
dailyedit.co.uk | editor@dailyedit.co.uk