Danny Dyer, an actor synonymous with the gritty realism of British television through his iconic role in EastEnders, has once again captivated audiences, this time in the critically acclaimed comedy series Mr Bigstuff. Having successfully transitioned from the tumultuous world of Walford’s Queen Victoria pub to a new, darkly humorous landscape, Dyer’s latest venture showcases his remarkable versatility and continues to solidify his standing as one of the UK’s most compelling performers.

For nearly a decade, Danny Dyer was a cornerstone of BBC’s flagship soap opera, EastEnders, playing the beloved and complex Mick Carter. As the landlord of the Vic, Mick navigated a myriad of dramatic storylines, from family feuds and marital struggles to devastating abuse revelations and a harrowing battle with depression. Dyer’s portrayal was lauded for its raw emotional depth and authenticity, earning him a dedicated fanbase and numerous accolades. His departure from the show, marked by a dramatic and ambiguous presumed death at sea on Christmas Day 2022, left a significant void in the soap’s fabric, leaving many wondering what his next career move would entail. The role of Mick Carter was not just a job for Dyer; it was a defining period that cemented his status as a national treasure, an actor capable of conveying vulnerability and strength in equal measure, often with his characteristic East End charm. This background is crucial, as it set high expectations for his subsequent projects, particularly a pivot into comedy.

Enter Mr Bigstuff. Launched in 2024, the series quickly emerged as a significant hit for Sky, with Dyer’s chaotic performance earning him a prestigious BAFTA award, a testament to his ability to transcend genres. The show sees Dyer reprise his role as Lee, an estranged brother to series creator Ryan Sampson’s character, Glen. This project represented a deliberate shift for Dyer, moving from the relentless pace and heavy drama of a soap opera to a more contained, character-driven comedy. The contrast is stark, yet Dyer appears to thrive, embracing the comedic timing and nuanced absurdity required for the role.

The premise of Mr Bigstuff itself is a masterclass in dark comedy, skillfully blending domestic farce with deeper themes of family dysfunction and personal crises. Set in suburban Essex, the series introduces Glen, a nervy carpet salesman attempting to lead a quiet life and overcome personal challenges, including erectile dysfunction, for the sake of his fiancé, Kirsty. His carefully constructed world is irrevocably disrupted by the unexpected arrival of his estranged brother, Lee. Lee, portrayed by Dyer, is a whirlwind of reckless energy, grappling with a prescription drug addiction and burdened by a bizarre and symbolic biscuit tin filled with what appears to be their late father’s ashes. On the run from his own troubles, Lee assumes Glen will be his salvation. However, as Lee imposes himself on the couple, their seemingly perfect lives unravel at an alarming rate, exposing cracks and secrets beneath the surface with every chaotic interaction. The show cleverly uses the confined setting of Glen and Kirsty’s home to heighten the tension and comedic clashes between the brothers, highlighting their vastly different approaches to life and their unresolved familial baggage.

While the second season of Mr Bigstuff has reportedly received mixed reviews from critics, fan enthusiasm remains overwhelmingly positive, bordering on obsessive. Social media platforms have been abuzz with viewers admitting to binge-watching the entire series in a single sitting. The initial two episodes were made available on Sky Max, with the subsequent four released weekly. However, for many eager fans, the allure of streaming the full season via Sky Go and NOW proved irresistible, leading to widespread “sofa day” viewing marathons.

This immediate consumption pattern highlights a significant shift in contemporary television viewing habits. Audiences, accustomed to the immediate gratification offered by streaming services, often prefer to immerse themselves fully in a series rather than enduring weekly waits. For Mr Bigstuff, this binge-ability seems to be a key component of its success, fostering a fervent, engaged fanbase. Viewers have consistently praised the show, with many describing it as “absolutely brilliant” and “hilarious,” declaring it “just as good as the first series” and “thoroughly enjoyed.” The sentiment that the show is “great medicine” and makes them “laugh out loud” underscores its effectiveness as an escapist, entertaining experience. One fan, in particular, noted their enjoyment in “playing spot the Brassic character (and EastEnders),” highlighting the cross-over appeal for audiences familiar with British comedy and drama.

Despite the widespread acclaim for its entertainment value, a common complaint among fans has been the series’ brevity. With just six episodes, each lasting around 30 minutes (reducing to 20-25 minutes with adverts), many viewers felt the show ended too soon, longing for more content. This desire for longer episodes or more extensive seasons speaks volumes about the show’s engaging nature and the strength of its characters and storyline.

Much of the praise has also been directed at Ryan Sampson, the series creator, whose vision and execution have been widely lauded. Fans have hailed Sampson as a “genius,” commending the “brilliant” characters and storyline that drive the show’s comedic success. The collaborative effort between Sampson and Dyer, along with the rest of the cast, has clearly resonated deeply with audiences, creating a memorable and highly anticipated series.

Mr Bigstuff not only provides a comedic outlet for Danny Dyer’s talents but also serves as a compelling exploration of family dynamics, societal pressures, and the often-hilarious chaos that ensues when dysfunctional relatives collide. Its success underscores Dyer’s enduring appeal and his impressive ability to transition seamlessly between diverse roles, proving that his charisma and acting prowess extend far beyond the East End’s cobbled streets. As fans eagerly await news of a third season, Mr Bigstuff stands as a testament to the power of well-crafted British comedy and the magnetic draw of an actor at the peak of his craft.