Alice and Steve Review: A Bold New British Comedy on Hulu
The six-part British comedy series Alice and Steve, set to premiere this Monday on Hulu, explores the fracturing of a long-term friendship when a 50-year-old celebrity stylist begins a romantic relationship with the 26-year-old daughter of his closest friend. Created by Sophie Goodhart, the show examines the complexities of age and intimacy through a lens of naturalistic, character-driven storytelling.
Did You Know? Steve, a character portrayed by Jemaine Clement, is a professional celebrity stylist known for creating the “Nicole Richie bob,” a detail that highlights his specific background in the fashion industry.
What triggers the central conflict?
The narrative begins in the aftermath of a funeral, where longtime friends Alice, a clothing designer, and Steve, a lonely, divorced stylist, attempt to recapture their past by partying at a club. Following a chaotic night that includes a trip to the vet, Steve ends up sleeping on the couch at the home of Alice’s daughter, Izzy. When Izzy initiates a romantic advance, the two begin a relationship that Alice initially views with disbelief and later attempts to sabotage.
Why does this dynamic matter?
The series challenges conventional tropes regarding age-gap relationships by positioning Izzy, rather than the older Steve, as the primary driver of their intimacy. By avoiding winks or nudges, director Tom Kingsley and creator Sophie Goodhart present the pairing as a grounded, albeit complicated, reality rather than a punchline. The tension is amplified by Alice’s emotional reaction, which evolves into a betrayal that threatens to dismantle her own life and relationships with those around her, including her husband, Daniel.
Expert Insight: The narrative significance lies in the series’ refusal to play favorites. By grounding the story in a naturalistic style, the show invites the audience to empathize with characters who are all making significant, often flawed, life decisions. The stakes are elevated not by external forces, but by the internal wreckage caused by Alice’s inability to accept the shifting boundaries of her personal circle.
What may happen next for the characters?
As the series progresses, viewers may see the fallout of Alice’s attempts at sabotage impact her wider social circle, including her son, Dom, and her husband’s colleague, Marni. Given that the series is built on a specific, planned trajectory, the breadcrumbs laid by the creator suggest that the characters are likely headed toward a definitive, if complicated, conclusion. The emotional wreckage caused by Alice’s actions could force a permanent re-evaluation of her long-standing bond with Steve, potentially altering their friendship beyond repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the main characters in the series?
The series stars Nicola Walker as Alice, Jemaine Clement as Steve, and Yali Topol Margalith as Izzy.
What is the premise of the relationship between Steve and Izzy?
Steve is a 50-year-old celebrity stylist who begins a relationship with 26-year-old Izzy, the daughter of his best friend, Alice. The story emphasizes that Izzy is the one who initiates the relationship.
Who is the creative force behind the show?
The series was created by Sophie Goodhart, known for her work on Sex Education, and directed by Tom Kingsley.
How do you think long-term friendships are tested when personal boundaries are crossed in such a significant way?