Top British TV Shows: Embracing Messy Characters
I just finished watching Rivals, and even though I’m a bit late to the party, I can’t stop raving about it. The show is jam-packed with the messiest, craziest, and most entertaining characters you can imagine. What makes a good character? Well, Rivals has nailed it with solid goals, room for growth, interesting relationships, distinctive personalities, and a sprinkle of personal issues. Huge shoutout to Dame Jilly Cooper and Dominic Treadwell-Collins for bringing this adaptation to life—it’s an absolute delight.
In a world where people are debating whether it’s okay to empathize with villainous characters, Rivals boldly embraces the darkest and wildest characters with open arms. The men may be the rivals on paper, but the women in the show are the real stars. They sleep around, cheat, drink, fight, lie, and scheme, but they’re also vulnerable, relatable, and multifaceted.
Even the seemingly innocent characters like Taggie O’Hara and Lizzie Vereker struggle with their desires and insecurities. They want to break free from societal norms and go after what they truly want. And let’s not forget Cameron Cook, the fierce, driven, and talented TV producer who is unapologetically herself in a sea of snobs. She’s a refreshing mix of pushy, smart, and compassionate, making her one of the most intriguing characters on the show.
If you enjoyed Rivals, you’ll love Cheaters, a quirky romantic comedy-drama set in London. What sets Cheaters apart is its flawed yet lovable characters. They may be cheaters and liars, but they feel incredibly human. You’ll cringe, laugh, and root for them to learn from their mistakes.
Messy characters are compelling because they give us a glimpse into experiences we may never have ourselves. We want them to evolve and grow, even if they start from a rock-bottom point. After all, all characters must change in a story—it’s just more fun when they start from a messy place.
