In a playful critique aimed at the most fervent supporters of the beloved series Fleabag, Andrew Scott, affectionately known to the show’s fans as the “hot priest,” has offered some tongue-in-cheek counsel for those who can’t seem to move on from the critically acclaimed comedy. Five years after its finale, Scott still finds fans wallowing in the show’s bittersweet moments and has a bit of advice for them.
“Go out and get some fresh air,” Scott humorously suggested during an interview with Entertainment Weekly. “Stop watching. Stop crying. Stop crying in your room with your curtains closed. Do something better with your life. It’s a great show, we all love it, but come on now, pull yourself together. Open the curtains and go outside.”
The show in question, a co-production between BBC Three and Amazon Studios, won the hearts of its audience over two memorable seasons. Fleabag was penned and brought to life on screen by the multi-talented Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who stars as the titillating protagonist, navigating a maze of personal and professional ups and downs set against the bustling backdrop of London.
The series boasted an outstanding cast with the likes of Sian Clifford, the Academy Award-winning Olivia Colman, and Brett Gelman, who collectively brought a delightful mix of sharp wit and honest depictions of life to the fore. Despite the limited number of episodes, a mere dozen, Fleabag made an indelible mark on the landscape of television, garnering a slew of accolades and cultivating an ardent following.
Andrew Scott’s career trajectory has continued to soar post-Fleabag with noteworthy performances, including starring in last year’s much-celebrated production, All Of Us Strangers, and most recently taking on the titular role in Netflix’s Ripley.
Fleabag’s conception by Waller-Bridge is a testament to her brilliance as a writer and actress, demonstrating her capacity to blend comedy with raw emotional narratives. The show intricately illustrates various themes including love, grief, and forgiveness, resonating deeply with viewers.
Waller-Bridge’s Fleabag character is complex and layered, often breaking the fourth wall, offering viewers a glimpse into her tumultuous inner world. Waller-Bridge’s portrayal garnered her multiple awards, cementing her status as a powerhouse in television. The series itself was widely celebrated, with its second season amassing six Emmy Awards.
Although Fleabag has concluded, its effects on fans and the television industry are lasting. The show’s raw storytelling and unique humor left an enduring legacy and continue to influence upcoming productions. It pushed boundaries by addressing taboo topics with sensitivity and humor, paving the way for similar bold storytelling in future shows.
Scott, while lightheartedly addressing the devotees of Fleabag, reflects on the bittersweet nature of being part of a cultural phenomenon that, while finished, has not been forgotten. He acknowledges the attachment fans have to the series, yet humorously suggests that there’s an entire world outside their devotion to the heartache and hilarity Fleabag has provided.
While fans may chuckle at his comments, Scott’s invitation to step back from the comfort of their screens hints at a broader conversation about the impact of television on our lives and the importance of balance. His plea for fans to let go a little and engage with the world directly is both a celebration of the show’s success and a reminder of the abundant experiences life offers beyond beloved fictional narratives.
Fleabag’s ascent from a one-woman show to an international TV phenomenon serves as a beacon of inspiration for creatives and fans alike. As it stands, the series continues to be a topic of discussion and adoration, proving that truly touching storytelling has the power to resonate with audiences long after the final scene fades to black.
So, as Andrew Scott jests, perhaps it’s time for some to look beyond the walls that enshrine their favorite series and discover what adventures await in the unpredictable but thrilling theater of the real world. After all, isn’t that what Fleabag would do?
