Changing Ends: Alan Carr’s 80s coming-of-age comedy returns for a third series
The Carr family is back, and the new decade brings more growing pains, football tension, and teenage crushes in Alan Carr’s semi-autobiographical sitcom. The third season of Changing Ends arrives later this month on ITVX, ITV1, and STV, blending warmth, humour, and 80s nostalgia from Northampton.
Since its debut, the BAFTA-nominated show has attracted over 14 million streams on ITVX and earned an RTS Award earlier this year. This success highlights how Carr’s bittersweet mix of adolescent awkwardness and tenderness resonates with audiences nationwide.
Plot and Setting
The story picks up in the summer of 1989. Young Alan, played by Oliver Savell, is now a proper teenager wrestling with adolescence, identity, and new emotions. A budding crush on Jake adds to the turmoil, challenging Alan to decide whether to keep his feelings hidden or express them openly.
Family and Football
Alan’s father, Graham (portrayed by Shaun Dooley), faces his own struggles as the manager of Northampton Town. With the Cobblers slipping into Division Three, he’s under immense pressure both professionally and personally. The series intertwines these emotional and sporting storylines with Carr’s recognizable blend of honesty, humour, and empathy.
“The series gently balances both struggles — one on the pitch, one of the heart — with Carr’s trademark humour and affection.”
Love-struck Alan navigates the agonies of sleepovers, swimming lessons, and awkward outings, all while discovering who he is and where he fits in this changing world.
Author’s Summary
Alan Carr’s Changing Ends returns with its third series, capturing teenage trials and family drama through warmth, nostalgia, and gentle 80s humour.