Changing Ends: Alan Carr’s 80s Coming-of-Age Comedy Returns for a Third Series
The Carr family is back, bringing fresh doses of warmth, humor, and nostalgia as Alan Carr’s semi-autobiographical sitcom enters a new decade. The third series of Changing Ends launches later this month on ITVX, ITV1, and STV.
Since its debut, the BAFTA-nominated show has earned over 14 million streams on ITVX and won an RTS Award earlier this year — clear proof that Carr’s unique blend of 1980s awkwardness and heartfelt storytelling continues to resonate across the nation.
Stepping into 1989
The new season takes viewers back to the summer of 1989. Young Alan, played by Oliver Savell, is now a full-fledged teenager struggling with all that adolescence brings: shifting identities, new emotions, and confusing desires. His budding crush on Jake adds another layer of heartfelt tension to the story.
Family and Football Challenges
At the same time, Alan’s father, Graham (Shaun Dooley), faces his own tests as the manager of Northampton Town. With the Cobblers sliding into Division Three, the pressure mounts both at home and on the field.
Balancing Heart and Humor
The series masterfully intertwines these struggles — one rooted in sports, the other in growing up — balancing sentiment and comedy the way only Carr can. From sleepovers and swimming lessons to awkward nights out, Alan’s teenage world is full of chaos, curiosity, and emerging courage.
“Hormones are raging, identity is wobbling, and there’s a new crush, Jake, turning up the emotional heat.”
The show, filled with warmth and wit, continues to portray the tender humor and deep charm of 1980s life in Northampton.
Author’s Summary: Alan Carr’s Changing Ends returns for its third series, capturing the missteps and heartfelt moments of adolescence in late-80s Northampton with humor and sincerity.