Youth: Sharon Horgan’s comedy about dating at 50 is utterly hilarious

by | Sep 19, 2026 | Entertainment

Youth: Sharon Horgan’s comedy about dating at 50 is utterly hilarious

Youth, a new dramedy series arriving on HBO Max from Monday 21 September, centers on Alex, a 50-year-old character portrayed by Sharon Horgan. The show explores contemporary middle age through the lens of a divorcee managing multiple life demands, including her teenage son Ruarí, aging parents, and a career in literary publishing while attempting to re-enter the dating world.

The narrative balances multiple storylines across Alex’s personal and professional spheres. At work, she navigates the publishing industry’s various personalities and projects, ranging from prestigious literary fiction to commercially successful romance novels of questionable quality. In her personal life, she contends with her ex-partner Lorcan, an actor preoccupied with his own career and recently involved with a younger woman, alongside potential romantic interests of varying suitability. Her son Ruarí receives support from various father figures in his life, creating a complex family dynamic.

The series employs humor to examine contemporary experiences of aging, intimacy, and self-perception. A central theme addresses how societal pressures and dating culture affect individuals navigating their fifties, particularly around physical appearance and romantic relationships. The show addresses the gap between expectations and reality when pursuing connection later in life.

Another significant subplot focuses on the practical demands of elder care, depicting the often unglamorous reality of supporting aging parents through logistical challenges and medical concerns. The series takes a realistic approach to family relationships, portraying both the frustrations and genuine affection that characterize parental bonds. The ensemble cast includes Tim McInnerny in a supporting role, while Aran Murphy performs as Ruarí.

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