Fans of Olivia Colman may know her from acclaimed dramas like The Night Manager, but her brilliant and charming performance as Sally Owen in Twenty Twelve is a must-watch. This witty comedy takes a satirical look at the chaos behind organizing the London 2012 Olympics, with Colman’s character adding heart and humor as she quietly pines for her boss.
- Olivia Colman plays a lovelorn PA in a satirical Olympic comedy
- The series follows the fictional London 2012 Olympic Deliverance Commission
- Both series are available to stream now on BBC iPlayer
What happened
Twenty Twelve is a British mockumentary-style comedy that centers on the fictional London 2012 Olympic Deliverance Commission. The show humorously portrays the struggles of a team tasked with managing the preparations and PR for the high-pressure event. Ian Fletcher, played by Hugh Bonneville, leads the commission and tries to stay positive despite constant mishaps and blunders by his colleagues.
Olivia Colman stars as Sally Owen, Ian’s personal assistant who is quietly in love with him, adding a touching layer to the show’s many comedic moments. The series also showcases a colorful ensemble cast including Jessica Hynes, Amelia Bullmore, and Vincent Franklin. The story continues with increased stakes and new characters in the second series, including dramatic conflicts that add to the fun chaos.
Why it feels good
Twenty Twelve resonates with anyone who has experienced the frustrations of working with an inept but well-meaning team. Its clever satire and relatable workplace antics make the series both funny and insightful. Olivia Colman’s performance as Sally is especially praised for its warmth and nuance, bringing depth to a character who balances professional duty with heartfelt longing.
The show’s mockumentary style delivers sharp, observational humor that highlights the absurdities of large bureaucratic efforts, especially around an iconic event like the Olympics. Watching the team navigate their personal and professional lives provides a mix of laughs and gentle human moments, boosting its appeal for comedy lovers and drama fans alike.
What to enjoy or watch next
You can watch both series of Twenty Twelve on BBC iPlayer tonight to enjoy Olivia Colman’s standout performance and the show’s witty take on Olympic preparations. If you’re in the mood for more Colman brilliance, consider the poignant film Empire of Light, which offers a different but equally compelling performance from the acclaimed actress.
For viewers who appreciate workplace comedies with well-developed characters and clever writing, Twenty Twelve is a refreshing find. It’s a perfect blend of humor, heart, and satire that complements other British comedy favorites while providing a unique perspective on historical events through the lens of fictional chaos.