The critically acclaimed Australian comedy 'Colin from Accounts' is drawing to a close with its third and final season, much to the surprise of its dedicated fanbase. The show, which first aired in 2022, quickly captivated audiences worldwide with its witty writing and the undeniable chemistry between its lead actors, Patrick Brammall and Harriet Dyer, who are a married couple in real life with two children.
Brammall and Dyer, who both co-write the series, expressed their decision to conclude the show as a deliberate choice to maintain its quality. "We don't want to flog a dead horse," Brammall stated, adding that the timing "definitely feels right." Dyer echoed this sentiment, explaining, "It is not that the horse is dead yet – we don't even want to find it is having trouble breathing." This confident exit strategy aims to leave viewers with a positive lasting impression.
The final season opens three years after the dramatic events of season two, finding Ashley (Dyer) and Gordon (Brammall) separated and dating other people. A chance encounter at Ashley's workplace, where Gordon unwittingly books a doctor's appointment, sets the stage for their reunion and the exploration of whether they could rekindle their romance. Playing ex-partners while being a real-life couple with two young children added a unique dynamic to their performances, which Brammall described as "fun to play," whether portraying love or arguments.
Dyer noted that season three possesses "a slight forlorn quality and an awkwardness – it's almost like taking them back to the start." The creative decision to split the characters and introduce a three-year time leap also served practical purposes, allowing the actors' real ages to align more closely with their characters. Despite the challenges of balancing writing, acting, and parenthood, the couple managed to avoid their usual 'big fight' during this season's production, attributing it to the demands of having two young children.
Beyond its engaging narrative, 'Colin from Accounts' also offered international viewers a refreshing glimpse of Sydney, deliberately avoiding the iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House shots. By setting Gordon's microbrewery in the inner west, the show presented a more authentic, less touristy side of the city. This nuanced portrayal, featuring everyday Sydney life rather than its famous landmarks, contributed to its global appeal, making it feel relatable to audiences far beyond Australia.