Ep 2. Gregory's Beard

Mark finally takes the plunge and decides to join a meditation retreat, hoping to find some inner peace and clarity amidst the chaos of his life. Meanwhile, Jeremy uses this opportunity to grow a beard and embrace his newfound "zen" persona.

In "Gregory's Beard," the second episode of Peep Show's ninth season, Mark's mid-life crisis comes to a head as he seeks solace in the practice of meditation. Convinced that enlightenment is the answer to his troubles, he signs up for a weekend retreat led by the charismatic and enigmatic Gregory. Mark convinces himself that this experience will be transformative, believing that it will provide him with the answers and direction he so desperately seeks.

As Mark embarks on his spiritual journey, Jeremy sees this as an opportunity to reinvent himself. Inspired by his friend's newfound interest, Jeremy decides to embrace the "bearded mystic" persona in an attempt to impress women and feel more connected to himself. He grows out a scruffy beard, hoping it will give him an air of wisdom and authenticity. However, his attempts at appearing spiritual and deep prove to be as misguided as ever, leading to a series of hilarious situations.

Meanwhile, Mark finds himself struggling with the realities of meditation. As he attempts to clear his mind and achieve enlightenment, his inner thoughts and insecurities become magnified. We witness his internal struggle as his neurotic and pessimistic mindset clashes with the supposed tranquility of meditation. Mark's introspective and self-critical nature makes it challenging for him to truly embrace the practice, leading to some humorous and relatable moments.

Back at the retreat, Gregory's unconventional and unpredictable teaching methods raise more questions than answers for Mark. Mark becomes increasingly paranoid and suspicious of Gregory's motives, wondering if he is being manipulated or if the whole retreat is just an elaborate scam. His skepticism and distrust collide with his desire for self-improvement, creating a tumultuous inner battle.

As the episode progresses, Mark's frustrations and doubts intensify, pushing him to confront Gregory and demand answers. This confrontation serves as a turning point for Mark, forcing him to question the validity of his own beliefs and to reevaluate the importance of finding external validation. Mark's journey ultimately teaches him that true enlightenment cannot be found through others' teachings or by seeking answers from outside sources but rather by looking inward and embracing his own flaws and uncertainties.

In parallel, Jeremy's attempts to embody the bearded mystic persona become increasingly absurd. From awkward encounters with women who are not impressed by his newfound facial hair to attempts at dispensing spiritual advice he knows nothing about, Jeremy's quest for authenticity turns into a comedic escapade. His misguided efforts highlight the contrast between his superficial desire for change and Mark's genuine inner turmoil.

"Gregory's Beard" masterfully blends comedy and introspection as it explores themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and the pitfalls of seeking enlightenment. This episode epitomizes Peep Show's unique style, combining its signature cringe-worthy humor with profound observations about the human condition. Mark and Jeremy's parallel journeys of self-improvement provide both laughs and moments of reflection, showcasing the show's ability to navigate between light-hearted entertainment and thought-provoking storytelling.

In this season 9 episode, Peep Show continues to shine with its refreshingly honest and character-driven approach. As Mark and Jeremy navigate the unpredictable paths of personal growth, viewers are treated to a mixture of hilarity and insight that has made Peep Show a beloved and critically acclaimed series for almost a decade. "Gregory's Beard" offers both fans and newcomers alike a delightful and thought-provoking glimpse into the hilarious world of Mark and Jeremy.