Relative Strangers

Watch Relative Strangers

  • 1999
  • 1 Season
  • 6.7  (84)

Relative Strangers is a British television show that follows the story of three siblings who reunite to attend their mother's funeral after decades of being estranged from each other. The show portrays family dynamics, the impact of secrets, and the various emotions that surround loss and grief.

The show is set in Glasgow, Scotland, and centers around a family whose family members have been fractured for years. The eldest sibling, Helen, played by Brenda Fricker, lives a modest life in the Scottish countryside with her husband John, played brilliantly by Robin Laing. The second sibling, Frank, played by Adrian Dunbar, is a successful businessman who lives and works in London. The youngest sibling, Rosemary, has spent most of her life estranged from her siblings and their mother.

The sudden death of their mother brings the three siblings together, and they find themselves confronted with the past, their family secrets, and their broken relationships. The reunion is not without tension, and the three siblings struggle to reconnect while navigating their different personalities, lifestyles, and personal issues.

As they prepare for their mother's funeral, the siblings begin to unearth hidden secrets, suppressed emotions, and unresolved conflicts. Helen, the eldest sibling, is a quiet and reserved character who struggles with the loss of her mother and the strain between her family members. John, her husband, is an endearing and sensitive character who provides comfort and support throughout the funeral preparations.

Frank, the middle sibling, is portrayed as the polar opposite of Helen. He is charismatic, confident, and successful, but his relationship with his siblings is strained due to past secrets and resentment. He also struggles to cope with his failed marriage and the estrangement from his daughter.

Rosemary, the youngest sibling, is the most complicated and intriguing character in the show. She is resentful and uncertain of her place in the family hierarchy, and her past trauma and secrets keep her distant from her siblings. Her character arcs are some of the most captivating in the show, and her interactions with her siblings offer a lot of insight into the dynamics of the family.

The supporting cast in Relative Strangers plays a vital role in the show's success. The characters are well-written, and the acting is impressive. From the funeral director to the family lawyer, the show creates a realistic portrayal of the Scottish community, their personalities, and the funeral traditions.

While Relative Strangers is a show that revolves around loss and grief, it also has moments of humor and heartwarming interactions. The show explores the complexities of family relationships, the importance of forgiveness, and the need for closure. It is a touching and relatable show that will resonate with audiences who have experienced familial strife.

Overall, Relative Strangers is a well-written and well-acted show that tells a compelling story about the intricacies of family relationships. The show's pacing is consistent, and the characters are well-developed. It is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys family dramas, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of family, forgiveness, and healing.

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Seasons
Episode 4
4. Episode 4
January 1, 1999
When Maeve's results come back negative, Lena is devastated; Brian is now Jamie's only hope. After his heart-to-heart with his girlfriend, Brian surprises everyone by agreeing to be tested. With the boy's life hanging in the balance, both families must confront the depths of grief, anger, and betrayal that James left behind.
Episode 3
3. Episode 3
January 1, 1999
Maureen refuses to consider helping Lena and Jamie, and her reluctance has unintended consequences for Nora and Sean's relationship. Finally, overcome by emotion, Maureen confesses everything to Brian, who agrees that they should have nothing to do with his father's other family. But when Maeve finds out about Jamie's illness, she wants to undergo testing to see if she could be a donor.
Episode 2
2. Episode 2
January 1, 1999
Maureen clandestinely follows Lena and Jamie around before confronting Lena with the brutal truth. When one of Lena’s friends comes to see Maureen, Maeve overhears their argument and runs off. Meanwhile, back in Germany, Brian has decided to take charge of the family’s financial situation, but he remains in denial about his father’s failings.
Episode 1
1. Episode 1
January 1, 1999
Irish ex-pat Maureen Lessing is a married secretary with two kids and a comfortable life in Germany, but her world is upended when her husband, James, suddenly dies from a heart attack. In the aftermath, she discovers that not only was James deeply in debt, but he also had a mistress and five-year-old son back in Ireland.
Description
  • Premiere Date
    January 1, 1999
  • IMDB Rating
    6.7  (84)