The BBC has unveiled a fresh batch of first-look images from the upcoming second series of ‘Funboys,’ alongside the news that acclaimed comedian and actor Steve Coogan will appear in a guest role.
The “soft bellied boys” are back, and life in rural Ballymacnoose is, at least briefly, looking up. After grappling with grief, questionable pharmaceutical choices, and their own chaotic impulses last season, the gang seems to have emerged… slightly more evolved.
Callum, played by Ryan Dylan, is sporting a bold new perm, while Gemma (Ele McKenzie) and Lorcan (Lee R James) are deep in a whirlwind romance, clocking in seven smooches a day. Meanwhile, Jordan, portrayed by Rian Lennon, has gone an impressive four months without a full-volume meltdown directed at his Daddies. Growth, of a sort.
But Ballymacnoose rarely stays sunny for long.
Also in news – ‘Spider-Man Beyond the Spider-Verse’ first look images reveal epic final chapter
Dark clouds gather as the gang belatedly entangles themselves in Irish history, with predictably disastrous results. The new series promises a cocktail of absurdity and biting humour, tackling everything from bigotry and balding anxieties to the surprisingly intense world of competitive robot combat.
There’s also the small matter of identity and self-discovery. Lorcan begins to explore new romantic territory, raising questions not just about the town’s readiness, but his own. Elsewhere, Jordan faces a follicular crisis that he insists is merely a “double crown” rather than impending baldness. Denial is a powerful styling product.
The looming question: can the boys’ teletubby-soft hearts withstand the emotional and cultural curveballs ahead, or are they destined to become the “doneboys”?
Adding an extra layer of dysfunction is Steve Coogan as Phillip, a bitter, washed-up actor relegated to performing as a member of the landed gentry at a folk museum. Phillip is pompous, cruel, and delightfully unhinged, blurring the line between performer and persona as he unleashes his petty tyranny on unsuspecting visitors.
The returning ensemble also includes Brian Devlin, Owen Colgan, Paul Bazely and Richard Croxford. Joining the new series alongside Coogan are Nicky Harley, Saorlaoith Brady, Lalor Roddy, Donal O’Hanlon and Amanda Doherty.
The series is written by Rian Lennon and Ryan Dylan, who also serve as executive producers, alongside Simon Mayhew-Archer. Rian Lennon directs, with Lauriel Martin producing.
