Chewing Gum (TV series)
Imagine a world where faith, family, and a fierce yearning for experience collide in the most uproarious and insightful ways. That's the heart of 'Chewing Gum', Michaela Coel's brilliant British sitcom that introduced a truly unique comedic voice to global audiences. It's a journey of self-discovery, sexuality, and spirituality, all wrapped in sharply observed humor that will leave you both laughing and thinking. Michaela Coel created, wrote, and starred in 'Chewing Gum', launching her as a singular talent in television. The show fearlessly explores themes of virginity, religion, and urban life through the eyes of its unforgettable protagonist, Tracey Gordon. 'Chewing Gum' achieved widespread critical acclaim, earning prestigious BAFTA awards and cultivating a dedicated international following.
AI Summary
Imagine a world where faith, family, and a fierce yearning for experience collide in the most uproarious and insightful ways. That's the heart of 'Chewing Gum', Michaela Coel's brilliant British sitcom that introduced a truly unique comedic voice to global audiences. It's a journey of self-discovery, sexuality, and spirituality, all wrapped in sharply observed humor that will leave you both laughing and thinking.
- Michaela Coel created, wrote, and starred in 'Chewing Gum', launching her as a singular talent in television.
- The show fearlessly explores themes of virginity, religion, and urban life through the eyes of its unforgettable protagonist, Tracey Gordon.
- 'Chewing Gum' achieved widespread critical acclaim, earning prestigious BAFTA awards and cultivating a dedicated international following.
Meet Tracey Gordon
At the core of 'Chewing Gum' is Tracey Gordon, a 24-year-old shop assistant navigating the vibrant, chaotic streets of an East London estate. Tracey is deeply religious and a virgin, yet she possesses an unshakeable, often hilariously awkward, desire to explore sex and the wider world beyond her sheltered upbringing.
This acclaimed British sitcom was the brainchild of the incredibly talented Michaela Coel, who not only created and wrote the series but also took on the starring role as Tracey. Her vision brought to life a character that is at once naive, bold, and utterly relatable in her quest for understanding.
From Stage to Screen
'Chewing Gum' originated from Coel's 2012 play, 'Chewing Gum Dreams', which explored similar themes through a one-woman show. The transition to television allowed her to expand the world of Tracey Gordon, introducing a colorful cast of characters and a broader canvas for her unique storytelling.
A Global Phenomenon
The series first graced British screens on E4 in October 2015, quickly captivating audiences with its fresh take on the sitcom genre. Its international reach expanded dramatically when Netflix picked it up in the United States in October 2016, introducing Tracey's adventures to a global viewership.
Though it briefly left Netflix in 2020, fans rejoiced when 'Chewing Gum' found a new streaming home on HBO Max in February 2021, ensuring that Tracey's journey of self-discovery remained accessible to new and returning viewers alike.
Behind the Scenes
The journey of 'Chewing Gum' began in August 2014, when Channel 4 announced Michaela Coel would be writing and starring in a new sitcom inspired by her play. Teaser shorts, known as 'C4 Comedy Blaps', were released in September 2014, building anticipation for the full series debut.
Filming for the series brought Tracey's world to life in various London locales. Iconic locations included the West London Film Studios and the Andover Estate in Holloway, North London, grounding the show's often surreal humor in a tangible, vibrant urban setting.
The Cast of Characters
Michaela Coel assembled a fantastic ensemble to bring Tracey's world to life, each character adding their own layer of humor and heart to the narrative. Their performances perfectly complemented Coel's distinctive writing style.
Michaela Coel as Tracey Gordon Danielle Isaie as Candice, Tracey's best friend Robert Lonsdale as Connor Jones, Tracey's love interest John MacMillan as Ronald, Tracey's devout and long-term boyfriend Tanya Franks as Mandy, Connor's mother Kadiff Kirwan as Aaron, Candice's boyfriend Susan Wokoma as Cynthia, Tracey's naive and uptight sister Shola Adewusi as Joy, Tracey and Cynthia's religious mother Maggie Steed as Esther, Candice's outspoken grandmother Olisa Odele as Ola Sarah Hoare as Karly Raven Abby Rakic-Platt as Kristy Raven
Notable Guest Appearances
Cynthia Erivo as Magdalene (series 1) Jonathan Bailey as Ash (series 2) Vera Chok as Penelope (series 2)
Series One: The Quest Begins (2015)
Sex and Violence
Determined to avoid becoming like her uptight sister Cynthia, Tracey sets out to lose her virginity to her long-term religious boyfriend, Ronald. A Beyoncé-inspired makeover and a new encounter with street poet Connor quickly complicate her plans, igniting unexpected emotions.
Binned
With Connor now in her sights, Tracey decides to 'bin' Ronald, but a chance meeting with Connor's mother reveals unsettling details about his romantic past. However, a visit to Ronald in the hospital, where his attention is surprisingly fixed on his male nurse, provides Tracey with a clearer, albeit surprising, path forward.
Possession
Tracey seizes an opportunity to advance her career at a recruitment day, only for it to take a sour turn, leading to a potentially regrettable deal. Meanwhile, Cynthia covers Tracey's shop shift, and Candice, along with her Nan, Esther, attempts to make some quick cash by hosting a sex-toy party.
The Unicorn
Tracey and Connor face challenges in the bedroom, prompting Tracey to seek unconventional solutions. She discovers a new app and orchestrates a threesome with someone known only as 'Sacha the Unicorn.' Back home, Cynthia's innocent research on Tracey's laptop takes an unexpected turn when she meets the desperate Seb.
The Last Supper
Tracey attempts to showcase Connor's hidden talent in a performance poetry show, but it culminates in disaster. Adding to the chaos, Tracey's cousin, Boy Tracey, arrives with an unexpected and challenging 'prize' for her. Amidst this, Cynthia prepares to reveal a life-altering secret to her family.
Toiled Road
Kicked out by her mother, Tracey moves in with Candice, quickly driving her best friend to distraction. Connor finally secures a job, hoping Tracey will move in with him. On Cynthia and Ronald's wedding day, Tracey races against time to expose Ronald's true feelings and prevent her sister from making a grave mistake.
Series Two: New Beginnings, More Chaos (2017)
WTF Happened?
After three months away, much of it spent in a homeless shelter, Tracey returns to run Deepak's corner shop. When Connor, now with a new girlfriend, comes in for repairs, Tracey desperately tries to make him jealous by claiming to be dating the famous grime rapper Stormzy.
Replacements
Tracey embarks on a mission to replace Connor and Candice with new dates and friends. However, her mother presents her with a series of challenging tasks that must be completed before she can even consider moving back into the family home.
Just Need Some Company
Craving male companionship, Tracey agrees to attend a party with Boy Tracey, hoping to find someone who finds her attractive. The night spirals into chaos when Tracey, Boy Tracey, Candice, and Aaron unexpectedly find themselves at a sex club.
Orlando
Tracey grows weary of spending time with Connor and his new girlfriend. Meanwhile, Cynthia demands an apology from Ronald. Esther is mistakenly identified as Candice during an online date, and Tracey forms an unusual friendship with a local dog named Orlando.
Road Trip
Tracey and Ola crash Aaron and Candice's 'meet the parents' weekend, leading to plenty of awkward encounters. Candice becomes frustrated with Aaron's lack of assertiveness. Ola encounters exciting new people, and Cynthia finally experiences her long-awaited sexual awakening.
Age Ain't Nothing but a Number
More desperate than ever to lose her virginity, Tracey joins a book club, hoping to meet men different from her usual type—but, as always, things don't go to plan. Karly is about to go into labor, and the entire estate rallies together to uncover the father's identity.
Critical Acclaim and Legacy
'Chewing Gum' was met with overwhelmingly positive reviews, earning critical acclaim from the moment it premiered. On Rotten Tomatoes, both seasons proudly boast a perfect 100% approval rating, a testament to its consistent quality and unique voice.
Critics praised Michaela Coel's 'brazen performance' and her 'incredible timing, warmth and gift for physical comedy.' The series was hailed as an 'underrated gem' and celebrated for its ability to deftly balance 'Christian convictions and crude intentions,' creating a truly unforgettable comedic experience.
Award-Winning Talent
The brilliance of 'Chewing Gum' did not go unnoticed by award committees. Michaela Coel garnered significant recognition for her groundbreaking work, firmly establishing herself as a major force in television.
In 2016, Coel won the prestigious BAFTA for Best Female Performance in a Comedy Programme, a monumental achievement for her portrayal of Tracey. She also secured a BAFTA for Breakthrough Talent, acknowledging her exceptional writing for the series. Her talent was further celebrated with multiple wins at the Royal Television Society Programme Awards, including Comedy Performance, Breakthrough Award, and Writer: Comedy.
The show itself also received nominations for Best Scripted Comedy at the British Academy Television Awards in both 2016 and 2018, solidifying its place as a critically adored and culturally significant series.
Despite its success, Channel 4 announced in April 2017 that the show would not return for a third series. Although Coel briefly hinted at a possible return in late 2017, she ultimately confirmed in November 2018 that 'Chewing Gum' had concluded its run, leaving behind a brief but brilliant legacy that continues to inspire and entertain.
Article
Chewing Gum (TV series)
Chewing Gum is a British television sitcom created and written by Michaela Coel, based on her 2012 play Chewing Gum Dreams. It stars Coel as 24-year-old shop assistant Tracey Gordon, a restricted, religious virgin, who wants to have sex and learn more about the world. The show earned Coel the BAFTA for Best Female Performance in a Comedy Programme and Breakthrough Talent.
The first series debuted on E4 on 13 October 2015 and on Netflix in the United States on 31 October 2016. The series was removed from Netflix in April 2020 and became available on HBO Max in February 2021.
Background
Chewing Gum (TV series)
In August 2014, Channel 4 announced that Coel was to star in and write a new sitcom called Chewing Gum, inspired by her play Chewing Gum Dreams. "C4 Comedy Blaps" were released as teasers in September 2014, and the series began on E4 in October 2015. Her performance earned her the British Academy Television Award for Best Female Comedy Performance in 2016; she also won a BAFTA for Breakthrough Talent for writing the show. Chewing Gum received overwhelmingly positive reviews.
Series one premiered on 6 October 2015 until 10 November 2015. On 3 December 2015, E4 ordered a second series; it began broadcasting on 12 January 2017.
In April 2017, it was announced by Channel 4 that the show would not be returning for a third series. However, in November 2017, Coel stated via Twitter that she intended to create a third series at some point in the future. In November 2018, Coel made another statement via Twitter confirming that the show wouldn't return for a third series.
Filming locations have included West London Film Studios and the Andover Estate in Holloway, North London.
Cast
Chewing Gum (TV series)
• Michaela Coel as Tracey Gordon • Danielle Walters as Candice, Tracey's best friend • Robert Lonsdale as Connor Jones • John MacMillan as Ronald, Tracey's boyfriend for six years • Tanya Franks as Mandy, Connor's mother • Kadiff Kirwan as Aaron, Candice's boyfriend • Susan Wokoma as Cynthia, Tracey's naive sister • Shola Adewusi as Joy, Tracey and Cynthia's religious mother • Maggie Steed as Esther, Candice's grandmother • Olisa Odele as Ola • Sarah Hoare as Karly Raven • Abby Rakic-Platt as Kristy Raven
Guest
• Cynthia Erivo as Magdalene (series 1) • Jonathan Bailey as Ash (series 2) • Vera Chok as Penelope (series 2)
Episodes
Series 1 (2015)
<table><thead><tr><th>No. overall</th><th>No. in series</th><th>Title</th><th>Directed by</th><th>Written by</th><th>Original release date</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>"Sex and Violence"</td><td>Tom Marshall</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>6 October 2015 (2015-10-06)</td></tr><tr><td>In hope of not becoming her uptight younger sister, Cynthia, Tracey becomes determined to lose her virginity to Ronald, her strictly religious boyfriend of six years. Following a Beyoncé-inspired makeover by her best friend Candice, Tracey goes on a venture to seduce Ronald, but when street poet Connor catches her eye, emotions become mixed, especially when she meets him at a party.</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>"Binned"</td><td>Tom Marshall</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>13 October 2015 (2015-10-13)</td></tr><tr><td>Connor is Tracey's goal now, and she wants to bin Ronald to fulfill her relationship needs. She runs into Connor's mother, Mandy, and is given some off-putting information about his history in romance. However, once she visits Ronald, who is recovering from a car accident, she sees the light when all he can think about is the male nurse aiding him.</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>3</td><td>"Possession"</td><td>Tom Marshall</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>20 October 2015 (2015-10-20)</td></tr><tr><td>During a shift at the shop, Tracey is able to grab a chance to improve her future in a recruitment day. When it turns sour, a member of staff tries to make a deal she might regret. Meanwhile, Cynthia covers Tracey's shift in the shop while she is gone and Candice and her Nan, Esther, attempt to make some money hosting a party selling sex-toys.</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>4</td><td>"The Unicorn"</td><td>Tom Marshall</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>27 October 2015 (2015-10-27)</td></tr><tr><td>Connor and Tracey are having some problems in the bedroom. In order to save what they have, Tracey tries to get advice from her friends but comes across a new app and plans to hold a threesome with a "Unicorn" known as Sacha. Back at home, Cynthia is using Tracey's laptop for some sex-related research but soon is introduced to desperate and strange Seb.</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>5</td><td>"The Last Supper"</td><td>Tom Marshall</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>3 November 2015 (2015-11-03)</td></tr><tr><td>Tracey thinks she can expose Connor's hidden talent in a show for performance poetry, but it goes terribly wrong. Also, Tracey's cousin, Boy Tracey, comes over to visit and gives her a prize she was never expecting to have to face. Cynthia has a life-changing secret to tell her family.</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>6</td><td>"Toiled Road"</td><td>Tom Marshall</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>10 November 2015 (2015-11-10)</td></tr><tr><td>Tracey is kicked out by her mum and is left to move into Candice's house, but is soon driving her crazy. Connor finally gets a job in hope that Tracey will eventually move in with him. It's also the wedding day of Cynthia and Ronald; Tracey must figure out a way to expose Ronald's homosexual feelings and stop her sister from making a terrible mistake.</td></tr></tbody></table>
Series 2 (2017)
<table><thead><tr><th>No. overall</th><th>No. in series</th><th>Title</th><th>Directed by</th><th>Written by</th><th>Original release date</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1</td><td>7</td><td>"WTF Happened?"</td><td>Tom Marshall & Simon Neal</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>12 January 2017 (2017-01-12)</td></tr><tr><td>After three months away, including time in a homeless shelter, Tracey returns to run Deepak's corner shop in his absence. Connor comes in to do repair work and, learning that he has a new girlfriend, Tracey attempts to make him jealous by claiming to be dating famous grime rapper Stormzy.</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>8</td><td>"Replacements"</td><td>Simon Neal</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>19 January 2017 (2017-01-19)</td></tr><tr><td>Tracey is busy replacing Connor and Candice with new dates and friends, but her mum sets her some challenging tests before she can move back into the family home.</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>9</td><td>"Just Need Some Company"</td><td>Simon Neal & Tom Marshall</td><td>Michaela Coel & Rob Hayes</td><td>26 January 2017 (2017-01-26)</td></tr><tr><td>In need of some male company, Tracey agrees to go to a party along with Boy Tracy in an attempt to find someone who thinks she's attractive. Chaos ensues when Tracey, Boy Tracy, Candice, and Aaron end up at a sex club.</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>10</td><td>"Orlando"</td><td>Simon Neal</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>2 February 2017 (2017-02-02)</td></tr><tr><td>Tracey is tired of spending time with Connor and his new girlfriend. Cynthia demands an apology from Ronald. Esther gets mistaken for Candice when she sets up a date with a guy she met online. Tracey befriends local dog Orlando.</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>11</td><td>"Road Trip"</td><td>Simon Neal</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>9 February 2017 (2017-02-09)</td></tr><tr><td>Tracey and Ola crash Aaron and Candice's "meet the parents" weekend. Candice is fed up of Aaron not being man enough for her. Ola meets some new and exciting people. Meanwhile, Cynthia finally has her sexual awakening.</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>12</td><td>"Age Ain't Nothing but a Number"</td><td>Simon Neal</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>9 February 2017 (2017-02-09)</td></tr><tr><td>Now more desperate than ever to lose her virginity, Tracey joins a book club in the hope that she will meet men different from the type she usually goes for, yet as usual not all goes to plan. Karly's due in labour any time now, and the estate pull together to find out who the father is.</td></tr></tbody></table>
Reception
Critical response
The series received critical acclaim upon its release. On review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, the first season holds an approval rating of 100%, based on 14 reviews, with an average rating of 9/10. The website's critics consensus reads, "Deftly juggling its Christian convictions and crude intentions, Chewing Gum is balanced by a brazen performance from series creator Michaela Coel." Filipa Jodelka from The Guardian praised Micaela Coel's performance commending her "incredible timing, warmth and gift for physical comedy". Reid Nakamura from The Wrap called the program an "underrated gem is worth a watch".
The second season was also received positively. On review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, the second season holds an approval rating of 100%, based on 16 reviews, with an average rating of 8/10. The website's critics consensus reads, "Chewing Gum's surreal charm and button-pushing comedy are doubled in its absurdly brilliant second season" Writing for The Guardian, Sam Wollaston called the show "hilariously filthy", praising Coel's performance and involvement in the program. Mike Hale from The New York Times praised the season though he considered the first season better, he commented that while towards the last few episodes "Ms. Coel starts to run short of ideas", there are episodes and moments "equal of the tremendous first season".
Accolades
<table><thead><tr><th>Year</th><th>Award</th><th>Category</th><th>Nominee</th><th>Result</th><th>Ref.</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>2016</td><td>British Academy Television Awards</td><td>Best Scripted Comedy</td><td>Chewing Gum</td><td>Nominated</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Best Female Comedy Performance</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>Won</td></tr><tr><td>British Academy Television Craft Awards</td><td>Best Breakthrough Talent</td><td>Won</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Royal Television Society Programme Awards</td><td>Comedy Performance</td><td>Won</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Breakthrough Award</td><td>Won</td></tr><tr><td>Writer: Comedy</td><td>Won</td></tr><tr><td>2017</td><td>Royal Television Society Craft & Design Awards</td><td>Director - Comedy Drama / Situation Comedy</td><td>Tom Marshall</td><td>Nominated</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>2018</td><td>British Academy Television Awards</td><td>Best Scripted Comedy</td><td>Chewing Gum</td><td>Nominated</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Black Reel Awards for Television</td><td>Outstanding Comedy Series</td><td>John Pocock, Michaela Coel, Kelly McGolpin, Nana Hughes, Jon Rolph</td><td>Nominated</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Outstanding Actress, Comedy Series</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>Nominated</td></tr><tr><td>Outstanding Writing, Comedy Series</td><td>Michaela Coel (for "Age Ain't Nothing But a Number")</td><td>Nominated</td></tr><tr><td>Royal Television Society Programme Awards</td><td>Scripted Comedy</td><td>Chewing Gum</td><td>Nominated</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Comedy Performance</td><td>Michaela Coel</td><td>Nominated</td></tr><tr><td>Writer: Comedy</td><td>Nominated</td></tr></tbody></table>