Ep 3. Episode 3

Tony (Ricky Gervais), a writer for the local newspaper, struggles with his grief over the death of his wife Lisa (Kerry Godliman) and contemplates suicide. In the opening of episode 3, Tony is seen lying in bed, complaining about his hangover and how much he hates his life. His dog Brandy keeps bothering him, but Tony is too angry and upset to pay her any attention.

At work, Tony's colleague Sandy (Mandeep Dhillon) is given the task of attending a local school assembly to take photos for the paper. Tony begrudgingly offers to go instead, which surprises Sandy. On the day of the assembly, Tony arrives and takes photos of the children and staff. He notices a young boy sitting alone, looking sad and disengaged, and takes a photo of him. After the assembly, Tony approaches the boy, who tells him that his dad is in prison and that he is bullied because of it. Tony is moved by the boy's story and decides to use his platform to bring attention to the issue by writing an article about the boy's situation.

Meanwhile, Tony's brother-in-law Matt (Tom Basden) tries to convince him to accompany him to a comedy club. Tony initially refuses, but eventually agrees after Matt offers to pay for his drinks. At the club, Tony overhears a comedian making fun of suicide, which infuriates him. He confronts the comedian, who tells him that he is a comedian, not a therapist, and that he shouldn't take everything so seriously. Tony storms out of the club, upset and angry.

Back at work, Tony's boss Kath (Diane Morgan) asks him to write an obituary for a woman who has just died. Tony visits the woman's husband, who tells him about the incredible life his wife led, which includes working as a spy during WWII and being a member of the Royal Society of Chemistry. Tony learns that the woman was also a writer and had always wanted to write a novel, but never had the chance. This inspires Tony to take action and write the woman's novel posthumously, using her notes and the stories her husband shared with him.

As the episode comes to a close, Tony receives a call from his therapist (Paul Kaye), who reminds him of the importance of finding purpose and meaning in life, and encourages him to keep writing. Tony reflects on his experiences over the past few days, and realizes that he has the power to make a difference in other people's lives through his writing.

Overall, episode 3 of After Life explores themes of grief, purpose, and empathy. Through Tony's interactions with the young boy, the woman's husband, and his therapist, the show emphasizes the importance of human connection, finding meaning in life, and serving others. The episode also continues to develop Tony's character and his journey towards healing and acceptance.