With Michael Palin and Pearce Quigley

Here is Mackenzie Crook from the set of his new BBC comedy Small Prophets.

The Detectorists creator wrote and directs the series, which is described as combining the 'magical and the mundane’ in a suburban cul-de-sac.

It revolves around eccentric Michael Sleep (Pearce Quigley) who lives a quiet life since his partner Clea disappeared seven years ago. 

But one day his father Brian – as played by Michael Palin – shares an old spell that could create Homunculi, magical prophesying spirits that can predict the future. 

Sleep gets help from young workmate Kacey (Lauren Patel), a friends through their mutual dislike of store manager Gordon (Crook). 

Meanwhile, comics Sophie Willan and Jon Pointing play Sleep’s nosy neighbours with Paul Kaye as  Roy, Clea’s brother, who has fallen on hard time and wants to claim the family home.

Filmed in Manchester, the six-part series  will launch on iPlayer and BBC Two in early 2026.

It has been produced by Car Share’s Gill Isles, and incorporates animation elements  into the live-action comedy.

Published: 24 Sep 2025