Diane Morgan and Sue Johnston are the dynamic duo that makes Ann Droid a comedy gem. This offbeat series tackles tough topics with wit and heart, throwing light on the absurdities of modern life in the process. At its core is Linda, a hapless robot carer (Morgan) who may not be perfect but has a way of winning over her human clients.
The premise is pure comedy gold: Sue (Johnston), recently widowed and struggling to cope with her injury, is left to fend for herself – until the arrival of Linda. With a cheeky nod to our throwaway culture, Michael (Paul Ready) tries to ease his mum's care needs by buying a used robot on a 24-month contract. The result? A comedy of errors as Sue tries to get to grips with her new 'carer', who's more useful without an internet connection than when she has one.
But beneath the laughs, Ann Droid probes deeper questions about artificial intelligence and its role in our lives. As Linda proves herself to be a loyal companion, Sue begins to find solace in her robotic friend – even if it means relying on Keith (Ed Jones), the local AI fixer, to get the internet working again.
From quirky characters like Roxy (Nicole Sadie Sawyerr) and Phyllis (Margot Leicester) to poignant moments that tug at the heartstrings, Ann Droid has a unique tone all its own. Morgan's commitment to her robotic role is matched by Johnston's stunning performance as Sue struggles to come to terms with life without David. The series may be about a robot carer, but it's very much about human relationships – and the love that can grow in the most unexpected places.
As the series tackles grief, loss, and the complexities of caregiving, it proves itself to be more than just a comedy. With its offbeat charm and distinctive style, Ann Droid is a must-watch for anyone who's ever laughed, loved, or wondered about the future of humanity.
The standout moments come in the quiet ones – like Linda's unexpected kindnesses, which remind us that even machines can show compassion. It's a testament to the writing and acting that we're invested in these characters, especially Sue, as she navigates her new reality without David. This may be a comedy about robots, but it's also about the humans who make them – and themselves – come alive.