The hit Channel 4 programme Big Boys which was created by Jack Rooke, alumnus of the Journalism BA course, has been named number 6 on The Guardian’s list of The 50 best TV shows of 2022.
The autobiographical comedy, based on Jack’s time at university, explores gay-straight male friendships, a subject that is relatively underrepresented in television, as well as men’s mental health. The Guardian describes Big Boys as “emotional ping-pong”, and brilliantly funny but also deeply sad.
The series starts with the real Jack Rooke recalling the events of 2013, after his father has passed away. In the first episode Jack, played by Dylan Llewellyn, meets Danny, played by Jon Pointing, a young man very different to Jack who will become his best friend. They form a small group of friends, including Corrine, played by Izuka Hoyle, Yemi, Jack’s first gay friend played by Olisa Odele, and Jules, played by Katy Wix.
Behind his always cheerful attitude and bubbly personality, Danny struggles with anxiety and is taking antidepressants. As the two friends slowly open up to each other, the series delves into the topics of grief, depression, identity and sexuality.
Reacting to the article on his Twitter page, Jack writes: “I have been so anxious recently, and this article is such a heart-warming accolade. I fought really hard to make Big Boys, professionally and personally. When TV wants huge global stylised shows, I am very proud of our team and our little story at Brent Uni.”
In her conclusion of The Guardian piece about Big Boys, Hollie Richardson said: “My initial hesitation about any awkwardness [that recommending the programme to men that she knew] might cause was proof that conversations around men’s mental health still need to be normalised. But recommending this show to people is a gift – one I truly believe might change, maybe even save, some men’s lives.”
Talking about Jack’s success, Westminster’s Alumni Team said: “It is great to see Big Boys, and Jack, get the recognition they deserve. Especially as the series addresses so many important themes around mental health, and draws inspiration from Jack’s time at Westminster. We look forward to seeing what he creates next.”
Read the full article on The Guardian’s website and watch the full series of Big Boys on All4.
Find out more about Media and Communications courses at the University of Westminster.
Related articles
