Changing Ends: Alan Carr’s 80s coming-of-age comedy returns for a third series

Alan Carr’s Changing Ends Returns for Third Series

The Carr family is back, bringing fresh stories of growing pains, football drama, and teenage crushes as Alan Carr’s semi-autobiographical sitcom moves into a new decade.

New Series Launch and Reception

Alan Carr’s Changing Ends returns for a third series later this month on ITVX, ITV1, and STV. The show continues to deliver warmth, wit, and nostalgia set in Northampton. Since its debut, the BAFTA-nominated series has accumulated over 14 million streams on ITVX and won an RTS Award earlier this year. This success highlights how Carr’s touching and humorous portrayal of 1980s adolescence resonates with a wide audience.

Plot Overview: Summer 1989

Series three unfolds in the summer of 1989, with young Alan, portrayed by Oliver Savell, now fully navigating his teenage years. He confronts the challenges of adolescence—raging hormones, shifting identity, and a new crush named Jake, which stirs his emotions even more.

Family and Football Struggles

Meanwhile, Alan’s father, Graham (played by Shaun Dooley), faces pressures as the manager of Northampton Town football club. The team is struggling, slipping down to Division Three. The series skillfully contrasts these difficulties on the football field with the emotional trials of growing up, blending humor and heartfelt moments.

Alan’s Teenage Challenges

Dealing with the awkwardness of sleepovers and swimming lessons
Navigating difficult social situations on nights out
Deciding whether to hide or express his feelings for Jake

“Since its debut, the BAFTA-nominated series has racked up over 14 million streams on ITVX and bagged an RTS Award earlier this year — proof that Carr’s bittersweet blend of 80s awkwardness and heart has struck a national chord.”

“Series three picks up in the summer of 1989, with young Alan — played by Oliver Savell — now a fully fledged teenager navigating the trickier corners of adolescence.”

The show gently balances the personal and sporting struggles with Alan Carr’s trademark humor and warmth.

Author’s Summary

Alan Carr’s Changing Ends returns with a heartfelt third series capturing the trials of 1980s teenage life and the pressures of football management, blending humor and nostalgia.

ATV Today - — 2025-11-04