Trying: British comedy exploring adoption and family life
Introduction: why ‘trying’ matters
The British comedy series Trying has attracted attention for its candid, often humorous portrayal of a couple’s efforts to become parents through adoption. The topic resonates widely: adoption, family formation and the strain these processes place on relationships are subjects of real-world significance. The show’s title itself echoes a common English adjective; Merriam-Webster defines “trying” as “severely straining the powers of endurance,” a double meaning that underlines both the series’ comic situations and its emotional stakes.
Main body: production, plotlines and cast details
Production and launch
Trying was created by Andy Wolton and was announced by Apple TV+ as a new British comedy series. The show premiered on 1 May 2020, with Jim O’Hanlon associated with the production. Across multiple series the story follows Nikki and Jason as they navigate the practical and emotional difficulties of adoption while juggling work and friendships.
Core premise and tone
According to available descriptions, all Jason and Nikki want is a baby, and when that proves difficult they decide to adopt. The series mixes screwball situations and dysfunctional family and friend dynamics to explore both the comic and serious sides of the adoption process. Plot beats cited in reports include a moment at a party where Nikki and Jason discover that another couple trying to adopt the same children, Princess and Tyler, are actually their hosts—which creates an awkward and revealing interpersonal turn. In a separate development, Nikki receives news of a work promotion just as Jason is told they were unsuccessful in their attempt to adopt Princess and Tyler, highlighting the juxtaposition of professional success and personal disappointment.
Cast and character progression
The cast list over several series includes Staunton as Penny, the adoption officer appearing in series 1–2. Later series introduce key characters linked to Nikki and Jason’s family life: Collins appears as Noah, the social worker in series 3–4; Rayner plays Princess in series 4, identified as Nikki and Jason’s daughter and Tyler’s sister aged 16; and Turner plays Tyler in series 4, their son aged 12. These details indicate the show’s narrative progression across multiple series and the maturing of characters.
Conclusion: significance and outlook
Trying combines humour with an examination of adoption and domestic pressures, drawing its title from a word that captures both endurance and frustration. With a creator-led approach, a platform launch on Apple TV+ and a cast that evolves across series, the show has built a narrative that follows Nikki and Jason through setbacks and changes. For viewers interested in contemporary family stories told with comedic touch, Trying offers a portrayal that is likely to remain relevant as it charts the emotional and procedural realities of adoption.