Changing Ends: Alan Carr’s 80s Coming-of-Age Comedy Returns for a Third Series
The Carr family returns with growing pains, football drama, and first crushes as Alan Carr’s semi-autobiographical sitcom steps into a new decade. The third series of Changing Ends arrives later this month on ITVX, ITV1, and STV, offering its familiar mix of humor, warmth, and nostalgia from Northampton.
Since its debut, the BAFTA-nominated series has accumulated over 14 million streams on ITVX and won an RTS Award earlier this year, underlining how Carr’s heartfelt portrayal of 1980s adolescence continues to resonate widely.
Plot and Setting
The story moves into the summer of 1989, with young Alan, played by Oliver Savell, now a full-fledged teenager trying to navigate the complexities of youth. Hormones surge, identity wavers, and a new crush named Jake adds an extra layer of emotional confusion.
Family Dynamics and Themes
Alan’s father, Graham, portrayed by Shaun Dooley, faces his own battles as manager of Northampton Town, struggling while the Cobblers slip into Division Three. The show skillfully contrasts their challenges — one in love and one in sport — with Carr’s trademark charm and affection.
Love-struck Alan faces the agonies of sleepovers, swimming lessons, and hesitant teenage nights out, while questioning whether to hide his emotions or express them openly.
Award-Winning Charm
This third chapter blends bittersweet comedy and tender coming-of-age storytelling, keeping alive the warmth and awkward humor that made the earlier seasons beloved by fans.
Author’s Summary
Alan Carr’s Changing Ends returns for a heartfelt third season that balances teenage self-discovery with family challenges, proving timeless humor still connects across generations.