Chance in a Million

[Alan Brady's Hair]

I've been watching this show recently, three series and just 18 episodes, shown 1984-86. It got some play in the US, but not as much as some other shows. I always liked it, and still do.

Simon Callow plays Tom Chance, an eccentric fellow who life is plagued by coincidences. Brenda Blethyn is Alison Little, Tom's new girlfriend. She's quiet and shy, but has the core of steel needed to manage the chaos that surrounds Tom wherever he goes. Both became bigger stars later, both are just great in these roles.

The show's very good-natured and funny. I find it interesting today. It's usually a criticism to say that a sitcom contains a lot of ridiculous coincidences, and I think it was inspjred to turn that on its head and make a show that's nothing but coincidence.