Olivia Colman returns to the small screen in Rev, an acclaimed BBC series that blends humor, humanity, and poignant moments. The show follows a London vicar and his wife as they face the challenges of parish life and family, showcasing some of Colman’s finest performances.
- Olivia Colman stars as Alex, a vicar’s wife with her own career.
- The drama balances comedy with touching moments in East London’s diverse parish.
- All episodes of Rev are available now on BBC iPlayer.
What happened
Rev is a BBC drama following Reverend Adam Smallbone, played by Tom Hollander, who is promoted from a peaceful rural parish to a lively, challenging church in East London. Olivia Colman stars as his wife Alex, a legal-aid solicitor who supports her husband while managing her own career and family life. The series humorously explores the diverse and sometimes chaotic characters that cross their path, from drug addicts to scheming politicians.
The show originally aired in three series between 2010 and 2014, with each season diving deeper into the couple’s life. Series two introduces Alex’s pregnancy and growing impatience with the demands of church life, while the final series deals with parenthood and personal challenges faced by Adam. Thanks to its sharp writing and strong performances, Rev has become a beloved program for its authentic yet comedic portrayal of modern parochial life.
Why it feels good
Viewers praise Rev for its clever blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling. The characters are complex and relatable, especially through Olivia Colman’s brilliant performance as Alex, who is both funny and emotionally nuanced. The show’s ability to find warmth and comedy in everyday struggles makes it resonate deeply with audiences.
Tom Hollander’s Adam is portrayed as a well-meaning but flawed man, grounding the narrative in realism and empathy. The series also touches on themes of community, faith, and personal sacrifice without being preachy. This balance, combined with strong supporting roles and witty dialogue, has earned Rev accolades and a loyal fanbase.
What to enjoy or watch next
All episodes of Rev are currently available to stream on BBC iPlayer, making it easy to watch or revisit the series at your own pace. Fans of Olivia Colman looking for more offbeat comedy might enjoy the show Flowers, where she plays a quirky, music-teacher matriarch dealing with a chaotic family life. Flowers streams on Prime Video.
For those who appreciate darker drama alongside Colman’s versatility, her acclaimed work in Broadchurch is another excellent choice, exploring intense crime stories with deep emotional undercurrents. Whether you want light-hearted charm or gripping storytelling, Olivia Colman’s range ensures there’s something to suit every mood.