Apple TV+ is continuing to release new episodes of "Trying," a British comedy starring Rafe Spall and Esther Smith that follows a couple navigating the adoption process. The show, known as "Ciclos" in Spanish-language markets, premiered in May 2020 and has built a reputation as one of the best-reviewed comedies of the past six years.
The series was created by Andy Wolton and is co-produced by Apple TV+ and the BBC. It centers on Nikki, played by Smith, and Jason, played by Spall, a couple who want to become parents but struggle to conceive. They decide to adopt, a process that brings new challenges and surprises on top of their already chaotic lives, unusual friends and eccentric families.
Cast and characters
The show's fourth season jumps forward six years and follows Nikki and Jason as they deal with life as parents and the difficulties that come with it. The supporting cast includes Sian Brooke as Karen, Nikki's sister; Darren Boyd as Scott, Karen's eccentric husband; Ophelia Lovibond as Erica, Nikki's best friend and Freddy's ex-wife; and Oliver Chris as Freddy, Jason's best friend.
Imelda Staunton plays Penny, the adoption officer working with Nikki and Jason. Phil Davis and Paula Wilcox play Jason's parents, Vic and Sandra Ross, while Marian McLoughlin and Roderick Smith play Nikki's parents, Jilly and John Newman.
Reviews and ratings
Since its premiere in the middle of the pandemic, "Trying" has continued to receive positive reviews from general audiences. The show holds a 90% favorable rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a 7.4 out of 10 on Metacritic, a 7 out of 10 on FilmAffinity and an 8 out of 10 on IMDB.
Seasons and where to watch
"Trying" has four complete seasons, and its fifth season has released five of its eight planned episodes so far, with new installments arriving weekly. The series is available on Apple TV+, which also carries other comedies such as "Ted Lasso," "Shrinking," "The Studio," "Bad Monkey," "Mythic Quest," "Platonic" and "Acapulco."
Viewers in Spain with Movistar's "Ficción Total" package can also stream the full Apple TV+ catalogue directly through Movistar Plus, the Spanish operator's streaming service.
