Colin from Accounts
Colin from Accounts is an Australian romantic comedy-drama television series created, written, and starring real-life couple Patrick Brammall and Harriet Dyer as Gordon and Ashley, respectively, two complex individuals brought together by a car accident that injures a stray dog they name Colin and decide to co-parent.[1][2] The series, which premiered on 1 December 2022 on Binge in Australia and later aired internationally on platforms like Paramount+ and BBC Two, explores the couple's evolving relationship amid personal flaws, family dynamics, and everyday absurdities in Sydney.[3][4] The show blends sharp wit with emotional depth, following Ashley, a free-spirited medical student, and Gordon, a more reserved microbrewery owner, as they navigate cohabitation, past traumas, and the challenges of caring for their three-legged dog.[1] Season 1, consisting of eight episodes, introduces their meet-cute and initial bonding over Colin, while Season 2, released in 2024, delves deeper into their committed relationship and the return of the beloved dog after a temporary absence.[2] Critically acclaimed for its authentic dialogue, relatable characters, and balance of humor and heart, the series holds a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on reviews praising its "charming" and "genuine" portrayal of modern romance.[3][4] Produced by Easy Tiger Productions and CBS Studios for the Foxtel Group, Colin from Accounts draws from Brammall and Dyer's personal experiences, infusing the narrative with insider humor about Australian life and relationships.[1] As of September 2025, the creators have confirmed development on a third season, promising further adventures for Ashley, Gordon, and Colin.[5] The series has garnered international fans for its fresh take on rom-com tropes, avoiding clichés in favor of flawed, endearing protagonists.[3]Cast and characters
Main cast
Harriet Dyer portrays Ashley Molden, a 29-year-old medical student from a privileged family background, depicted as impulsive yet idealistic in her approach to life and relationships.[6] As co-creator of the series alongside Patrick Brammall, Dyer infuses Ashley with a character arc that evolves from post-breakup recklessness—exemplified by her flashing at a stranger in the pilot episode—to gradual maturity in navigating romantic commitments and personal vulnerabilities across the seasons.[7] This growth highlights Ashley's journey toward balancing her youthful optimism with the realities of interdependence, particularly in her evolving bond with Gordon.[8] Patrick Brammall plays Gordon "Flash" Crapp, a 40-something microbrewery owner characterized by his awkward demeanor and underlying kind-heartedness, often grappling with personal insecurities stemming from recent heartbreak.[6] As co-creator with Dyer, Brammall draws on Gordon's professional life running the Echo Park Brewery to explore themes of distraction and self-doubt, portraying a man whose well-intentioned but clumsy efforts in relationships reveal deeper anxieties about aging and stability.[9] Gordon's arc traces his transition from emotional isolation to tentative openness, especially through co-parenting the injured dog that catalyzes his meeting with Ashley in the series premiere, where a car accident involving the stray pup brings the pair together.[10] The titular Colin, the injured stray dog central to the narrative, is played by Border Terriers Zak Feddersen and Buster Feddersen, whose portrayal symbolizes the fragile yet unifying bond between Ashley and Gordon throughout the series.[11] Introduced in the pilot as the paraplegic victim of the car crash that unites the leads—who name him after a bureaucratic mix-up—Colin serves as a non-human anchor, requiring the couple's collaborative care and representing their shared commitment amid personal chaos.[7] His wheeled mobility and affable presence underscore the show's themes of resilience and unconventional family formation.[12]Supporting and recurring cast
The supporting and recurring cast of Colin from Accounts includes a diverse ensemble of characters who drive subplots centered on family tensions, friendships, and romantic entanglements, often delivering sharp comic relief through awkward encounters and witty banter that complements the leads' central relationship.[13] Emma Harvie plays Megan, initially introduced as Gordon's ex-girlfriend and later Ashley's supportive colleague at the hospital, whose sarcastic commentary and evolving flirtation with Chiara add layers of humor and queer representation to the group's social dynamics across both seasons. She appears in 15 episodes, frequently mediating conflicts and highlighting the characters' vulnerabilities.[14][15] Genevieve Hegney portrays Chiara, Gordon's free-spirited younger sister, who injects chaotic energy into family gatherings and offers unsolicited advice to the couple, enriching the exploration of sibling bonds and personal growth; her role spans 12 episodes in Seasons 1 and 2.[14][13] Helen Thomson recurs as Lynelle, Ashley's pragmatic mother, whose overprotective nature and dry humor create comedic friction in family subplots, particularly around Ashley's life choices and relationships, appearing prominently in both seasons.[13][16] Michael Logo embodies Brett, Ashley's affable but somewhat oblivious father, contributing lighthearted domestic humor through his interactions with Lynelle and the extended circle in multiple episodes across the series.[17][13] Annie Maynard appears as Yvette, a no-nonsense veterinarian and Gordon's former partner who treats the injured dog Colin, sparking tense yet funny ex-partner dynamics that underscore themes of moving on; her arc is notable in Season 1 with recurring tension in subsequent episodes.[18][19] In Season 2, Celeste Barber joins as Katie Crapp, a bold acquaintance whose brief but memorable appearances deliver rapid-fire sarcasm and escalate social awkwardness in group settings, enhancing the season's focus on expanded friendships.[20][21] Justin Rosniak plays Heavy (also credited as Alistair), Gordon's boisterous brother whose disruptive visits in Season 2 introduce rowdy family chaos and blunt revelations that propel emotional subplots, appearing in two key episodes.[22][13] Additional guest stars with notable arcs include Virginia Gay as Rumi, a vibrant new friend who amplifies the comedic ensemble in Season 2 social scenes.[20][23]Plot and episodes
Premise
Colin from Accounts is an Australian romantic comedy-drama television series centered on two imperfect singles, Ashley and Gordon, who are unexpectedly drawn together following a car accident that injures a stray dog they subsequently name Colin and jointly adopt. This shared responsibility forces them into frequent interactions, sparking an unlikely romance as they navigate their personal shortcomings and growing connection.[2][24] Set in contemporary Sydney, Australia, the series examines the nuances of modern relationships, everyday mishaps, and interpersonal dynamics within a romantic comedy-drama framework. It portrays the protagonists' lives amid urban routines, emphasizing relatable conflicts and the messiness of adulting. Ashley, a 29-year-old medical student with a penchant for drinking, and Gordon, a mid-40s microbrewery owner, embody contrasting personalities that highlight their differences in age, lifestyle, and outlook.[24][25] The narrative explores themes of vulnerability and authenticity, with Colin the dog acting as a pivotal catalyst that compels the characters to confront their flaws and foster genuine honesty in their budding partnership. The show's tone blends awkward, cringe-worthy humor with tender, heartfelt exchanges and sharp, realistic dialogue, reflecting the creators' intent to capture the chaos of real-life romance. Created and written by real-life couple Harriet Dyer and Patrick Brammall, who also star as Ashley and Gordon, respectively, the series prioritizes emotional depth over idealized tropes.[26][6][25]Season 1 (2022)
The first season of Colin from Accounts consists of eight half-hour episodes that premiered simultaneously on the Australian streaming service Binge on December 1, 2022.[27] Created, written, and starring real-life couple Patrick Brammall and Harriet Dyer, the episodes were directed primarily by Trent O'Donnell (episodes 1–3), with additional direction by Trent O'Donnell and Madeleine Dyer (episode 4) and Matthew Moore (episodes 5–8).[22] Each episode runs approximately 25–30 minutes.[1] Throughout the season, medical student Ashley (Harriet Dyer) and microbrewery owner Gordon (Patrick Brammall) form an unlikely romance after Gordon, distracted by Ashley flashing her breast at a bar, accidentally hits a stray dog with his car; they name the injured animal Colin and agree to share responsibility for his care and veterinary bills.[28] Their budding relationship faces tests from Ashley's meddlesome mother Lynelle, Gordon's supportive but intrusive brother Martin, workplace stresses including Gordon's brewery supply issues, and Colin's ongoing recovery needs, building to a climax where commitment anxieties lead to a breakup, though they ultimately secure Colin's future together.[29] Key events unique to the season include the chaotic accident scene that unites the leads, awkward family introductions during social gatherings, and escalating conflicts like a misguided explicit photo and a disruptive birthday party that exposes relational strains.[30] The episodes are as follows:| No. | Title | Director(s) | Original air date | Synopsis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Flash | Trent O'Donnell | December 1, 2022 | Gordon's bad day escalates when, distracted by Ashley at a bar, he hits a stray dog with his car, leading them to bond over the injured animal's care.[31] |
| 2 | Benedict Cumbercrapp | Trent O'Donnell | December 1, 2022 | Ashley disrupts Gordon's organized sock drawer, prompting a shopping trip to Costco with Colin, Gordon's sister-in-law Megan, and Ashley's mother Lynelle to replace furniture.[32] |
| 3 | Toyota Cressida | Trent O'Donnell | December 1, 2022 | Gordon accidentally sends Ashley an explicit photo and scrambles to delete it, while they navigate early relationship awkwardness and Colin's vet visits. |
| 4 | Bubbly Sophie | Trent O'Donnell, Madeleine Dyer | December 1, 2022 | An uncomfortable intimate encounter causes Ashley and Gordon to pull away from each other, straining their connection amid social obligations. |
| 5 | My Amiga | Matthew Moore | December 1, 2022 | During a blackout at their shared space, Ashley steps up to manage the situation, earning respect from Gordon's friends while deepening their bond. |
| 6 | The Good Room | Matthew Moore | December 1, 2022 | Ashley invites Gordon to her birthday dinner at her parents' home, where family dynamics and revelations test their compatibility. |
| 7 | Bandit | Matthew Moore | December 1, 2022 | Ashley's wild friends crash a gathering at Gordon's brewery, pushing their relationship to the brink with jealousy and party chaos. |
| 8 | High Needs People | Matthew Moore | December 1, 2022 | After breaking up over commitment issues, Ashley and Gordon search for a new home for Colin, reflecting on their journey and parting ways. |
Season 2 (2024)
The second season of Colin from Accounts picks up shortly after the events of the first, with Ashley Crapp (Harriet Dyer) and Gordon Crapp (Patrick Brammall) now living together as a couple while navigating the challenges of cohabitation and attempting to reclaim their beloved special needs dog, Colin, from his new owners.[33] The eight-episode arc delves deeper into their relationship dynamics, introducing conflicts stemming from ex-partners, professional pressures, and family obligations, all amid the show's signature blend of awkward humor and emotional authenticity. Ashley begins her medical internship, adding stress to her daily life, while Gordon explores opportunities to expand his microbrewery business, highlighting the couple's contrasting approaches to ambition and compromise.[34][4] New subplots enrich the narrative, including interactions with Ashley's and Gordon's extended families during events like weddings, and the introduction of guest characters who complicate their efforts to retrieve Colin, such as the dog's new caregiver played by Celeste Barber. The season escalates comedic mishaps through scenarios involving ethical dilemmas, family secrets, and unexpected alliances, with Colin remaining a central source of chaos and connection. Guest stars including Virginia Gay as Rumi, Justin Rosniak as Alistair, Lynne Porteous as Dawn, and John Howard as Brian bring fresh energy to supporting roles, amplifying the relational tensions.[33][35] Production on the season faced delays due to the 2023 Writers Guild of America strike, which impacted international scripting and scheduling, though filming ultimately wrapped in early 2024 for its Australian premiere.[13]| Episode | Title | Australian Premiere Date (Binge) | Synopsis |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.01 | Blessings | May 30, 2024 | Ashley and Gordon adjust to living together and initiate plans to get Colin back, facing initial resistance from his new family.[36][8] |
| 2.02 | Bacon in the Drawer | June 6, 2024 | Tensions rise as the couple deals with household quirks and an awkward encounter involving Gordon's ex.[36][8] |
| 2.03 | Heavy | June 13, 2024 | Ashley's internship begins amid family pressures, while Gordon grapples with business decisions that test their partnership.[36][8] |
| 2.04 | Ethical Porn | June 20, 2024 | A moral quandary at work forces the couple to confront differing values, complicating their retrieval efforts for Colin.[36][8] |
| 2.05 | Waterfall | June 27, 2024 | An outing turns chaotic as past relationships resurface, revealing vulnerabilities in Ashley and Gordon's bond.[36][8] |
| 2.06 | Yass King | July 4, 2024 | The pair visits extended family, where wedding preparations expose deeper incompatibilities and humorous mishaps.[36][8] |
| 2.07 | Wawam | July 11, 2024 | Gordon channels frustration into a community event for Colin's cause, while Ashley navigates internship challenges.[36][37] |
| 2.08 | Speedy Susans | July 18, 2024 | In the finale, escalating conflicts culminate in a high-stakes confrontation over Colin, forcing the couple to reassess their future.[36][8] |
Season 3 (TBA)
In April 2025, Paramount+ and Binge announced the renewal of Colin from Accounts for a third season, confirming the continuation of the Australian comedy series created by and starring Patrick Brammall and Harriet Dyer.[38] Production is scheduled to begin in January 2026 in Australia, with a release expected in late 2026.[5][39] The season is expected to consist of eight episodes, matching the format of the previous installments, and will maintain the Sydney setting along with the core cast, including Brammall as Gordon and Dyer as Ashley.[40] Creators Dyer and Brammall have teased that the season will open with a time jump of a couple of years, bypassing the immediate fallout from the Season 2 finale's rejected marriage proposal and exploring the evolving dynamics of Gordon and Ashley's relationship thereafter.[41] This arc builds on unresolved threads from prior seasons, such as the couple's commitment challenges, while delving deeper into Ashley's medical career progression and elements of Gordon's personal history.[41] A trailer for the season was released on November 15, 2025, confirming the 2026 premiere.[42]Production
Development
Harriet Dyer first conceived the idea for Colin from Accounts in 2017, writing the pilot script in four days while in Los Angeles, driven by boredom during her acting career and an initial spark of inspiration from everyday relational dynamics.[43] Encouraged by her husband Patrick Brammall, the couple collaborated to develop the series, drawing from their real-life marriage and experiences such as fostering a dog named Colin, which informed the show's premise of two strangers bonding over an injured stray they decide to care for.[44][7] The project received initial development funding from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), but was ultimately passed over due to concerns about its creators being "two straight white people," as Dyer later recounted.[43] Dyer and Brammall then pitched the series to BINGE (a Foxtel Group platform) and CBS Studios International around 2020–2021, emphasizing its authentic Australian voice and universal themes of flawed relationships to appeal to global audiences.[43][45] In 2021, the series was commissioned for an eight-episode first season as an international co-production between Easy Tiger Productions, CBS Studios, and BINGE, with support from Screen Australia and Screen NSW, marking a key milestone in securing its path to production and worldwide distribution.[45] The formal announcement came in February 2022, highlighting the show's potential for cross-cultural resonance through its blend of humor and heart.[45] Dyer and Brammall wrote all episodes collaboratively, infusing the scripts with personal anecdotes such as the quirks of their long-term partnership and the challenges of pet adoption, which added layers of authenticity to the characters' vulnerabilities.[44][46] Their process often involved spontaneous brainstorming during dog walks or home discussions, though it was punctuated by intense creative disagreements, including one "mega-fight" per season to resolve tensions and refine the narrative.[44][46] At the core of the series' philosophy is the theme of "silly vulnerability," where the creators aimed to protect moments of lighthearted absurdity while exposing characters' emotional rawness, allowing humor to emerge from genuine human flaws rather than contrived setups.[47] This approach, as Brammall noted, ensured the show remained "grounded" yet playful, prioritizing relatable awkwardness over polished romcom tropes.[47]Casting and filming
Harriet Dyer and Patrick Brammall, who are married in real life, were cast as the leads Ashley and Gordon due to their natural on-screen chemistry, which the creators—also Dyer and Brammall—deemed essential for the romantic dramedy.[7] Supporting roles were cast through auditions handled by McGregor Casting in Sydney during 2021 and 2022, with the series earning the Best Casting in a TV Comedy award for its second season from the Casting Guild of Australia in 2024.[48][49] The titular dog, Colin, is a border terrier selected for its relatable, scruffy appearance. Creators reviewed photos of various dogs and chose a highly trainable border terrier to handle the role's demands, including consistent behaviors like sitting or reacting on cue.[50] Filming for Colin's scenes involved animal handlers to ensure welfare, and the production could not use the couple's own dog, Walter, due to international travel restrictions.[51][52] Principal photography for the first season took place in 2021 across various Sydney suburbs, including Marrickville, Leichhardt, Redfern, and Camperdown, with interiors like the microbrewery set constructed in Marrickville to capture the show's urban Australian vibe.[53][54][55] The second season was shot in 2023 and early 2024 in similar inner-west locations such as Ultimo, Surry Hills, Pyrmont, and Glebe, wrapping production by mid-2024.[56][57][58] The series was renewed for a third season in April 2025. Season 3 is produced by Easy Tiger Productions and CBS Studios, with Dyer and Brammall returning as writers, stars, and executive producers. As of November 2025, preparations are underway, with filming scheduled to begin in Sydney later in the year; it is slated for release in late 2026 on BINGE in Australia.[38][59] Production faced challenges from COVID-19 protocols during the first season's shoot in 2021, including restricted crew sizes and testing requirements on location.[55] Working with the dog actor added logistical hurdles, such as multiple takes to accommodate the animal's energy levels and ensuring comedic timing in scenes involving unpredictable pet behaviors.[50][60] The single-camera style demanded precise blocking to balance the show's witty dialogue and physical comedy, particularly in multi-character ensemble sequences.[52]Broadcast and distribution
Australian broadcast
Colin from Accounts premiered in Australia on the streaming platform Binge on 1 December 2022, with all eight episodes of the first season released simultaneously.[61] The series, produced by Easy Tiger Productions for Binge—a subscription video-on-demand service owned by the Foxtel Group—was positioned as a flagship Australian original comedy.[45] The second season followed a similar release strategy, debuting on Binge on 30 May 2024, again dropping all eight episodes at once for binge-viewing.[62] This approach allowed audiences immediate access to the full season, aligning with Binge's model for premium local content.[63] The show achieved significant domestic success, becoming the most-watched original scripted series in the Foxtel Group's history, with season 2 maintaining strong streaming performance comparable to the first.[64] Binge's marketing campaign featured trailers that spotlighted the series' rom-com dynamics, including awkward encounters and character-driven humor, released in the lead-up to each season's launch.[65] Promotional efforts also included tie-ins with the TV Week Logie Awards, leveraging the show's nominations and wins to boost visibility among Australian viewers.[66]International distribution
Paramount Global Content Distribution handles the international rights for Colin from Accounts outside Australia and New Zealand. In the United States, Paramount+ acquired the series, with Season 1 premiering on November 9, 2023, followed by weekly episodes.[67] Season 2 launched exclusively on the platform with all eight episodes available on September 26, 2024.[68] In the United Kingdom, the BBC acquired the rights, airing Season 1 on BBC Two starting April 11, 2023, and making it available on BBC iPlayer.[69] Season 2 premiered on the same channel on September 3, 2024, with full availability on iPlayer.[70] Across Europe and other regions, the series streams primarily via Paramount+, including markets like Canada where it is also accessible on CBC Gem.[71] In select Asian territories, it has been distributed through various local platforms.[72] By 2025, Colin from Accounts had reached audiences in over 150 countries through these deals.[73] The renewal for Season 3, announced on April 8, 2025, was secured by Paramount+ for global distribution outside Australia, enhancing international co-financing and ensuring broader market expansion.[38]Reception
Critical reception
Colin from Accounts has garnered widespread critical acclaim for its blend of romantic comedy and drama. The series holds a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 51 critic reviews across both seasons, with Season 1 earning perfect scores from 29 reviews and Season 2 from 22. On IMDb, it maintains an 8.0 out of 10 rating from over 14,500 users. Critics have praised the show's authentic portrayal of modern relationships, highlighting the natural chemistry between leads Harriet Dyer and Patrick Brammall, who also created the series.[3][29][8][1] Reviewers have lauded the writing for its sharp, cringeworthy humor reminiscent of Curb Your Enthusiasm, combined with an egalitarian approach to messy character dynamics. The Guardian described the series as a "delightful romcom [that] doesn't shy from drama or toilet humour," emphasizing how drama underpins the comedy in a seamless manner. Variety commended the leads for bringing "an uncommonly light touch to even the more outré material, and [magicking] an oddly winning, befuddled chemistry," while noting its roots in the tradition of shows like Catastrophe. The show's Australian setting infuses it with a breezy, relatable wit that captures everyday awkwardness without exaggeration.[25][74] For Season 1, critics celebrated its fresh take on the rom-com genre, reviving the form with authentic, unfiltered dialogue drawn from the creators' real-life marriage. Polygon called it "the year's best rom-com," attributing its success to the genuine rapport between Dyer and Brammall that makes the improbable premise believable. Season 2 built on this foundation, delving into deeper emotional layers while maintaining comedic momentum; The Guardian noted it as "the smash-hit Aussie comedy... better than ever," with heightened stakes in the characters' evolving relationship. The Los Angeles Times highlighted its exploration of dysfunctional romance, praising how the series balances laughs with heartfelt moments around an injured dog that catalyzes the central bond.[75][4][76] Deadline and other outlets have underscored the show's global appeal, crediting its universal themes of flawed love and quirky family dynamics for its breakout success beyond Australia. With Season 3 renewed amid continued praise and production set to begin in January 2026, anticipation remains high for further development of its emotionally resonant narrative. This critical consensus has contributed to the series' recognition at major awards, including AACTA honors.[67][77][5]Audience response and viewership
Colin from Accounts garnered significant audience engagement upon its debut, becoming Foxtel Group's most watched original series on Binge in Australia during its first season in late 2022.[78] Fans have expressed enthusiasm on social media, with notable buzz on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit praising the relatable characters and the series' awkward, heartfelt portrayal of romance.[79] The dedicated subreddit r/ColinFromAccounts features threads lauding the chemistry between leads Ashley and Gordon, alongside memes centered on Colin's clumsy escapades as the injured dog at the story's heart.[80] The second season, released in 2024, sustained this momentum, contributing to a swift renewal announcement for a third season in April 2025, underscoring robust viewer support ahead of further production.[38] Beyond metrics, the series has influenced cultural conversations around class differences and interpersonal relationships, as explored in podcast interviews with creators Patrick Brammall and Harriet Dyer.[81]Awards and nominations
AACTA Awards
"Colin from Accounts" has received substantial acclaim at the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) Awards, earning multiple wins and nominations across its two seasons in categories spanning production, writing, direction, editing, and performance. These honors underscore the series' excellence in narrative comedy and its contributions to Australian television.[82] For its first season, the series triumphed at the 13th AACTA Awards in 2024, winning Best Narrative Comedy Series for producers Ian Collie, Rob Gibson, Patrick Brammall, and Harriet Dyer, as well as Best Acting in a Comedy for both Dyer (as Ashley) and Brammall (as Gordon). The ceremony took place on the Gold Coast, celebrating the show's innovative storytelling and character-driven humor.[82] The second season earned nominations at the 14th AACTA Awards in 2025, including for Best Narrative Comedy Series (which was awarded to Fisk). The event, hosted in Sydney, also featured nominations for Best Screenplay in Television for Brammall and Dyer, as well as Best Acting in a Comedy for Brammall and Dyer, Best Guest or Supporting Actress in a Comedy for Celeste Barber, Best Direction in Drama or Comedy for Trent O'Donnell, and Best Editing in Television, reflecting the show's consistent high production values.[83][84][85]| Year | Category | Recipient(s) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Best Narrative Comedy Series | Ian Collie, Rob Gibson, Patrick Brammall, Harriet Dyer | Won |
| 2024 | Best Acting in a Comedy | Harriet Dyer | Won |
| 2024 | Best Acting in a Comedy | Patrick Brammall | Won |
| 2025 | Best Narrative Comedy Series | Ian Collie, Rob Gibson, Patrick Brammall, Harriet Dyer | Nominated |
| 2025 | Best Screenplay in Television | Patrick Brammall, Harriet Dyer | Nominated |
| 2025 | Best Acting in a Comedy | Patrick Brammall | Nominated |
| 2025 | Best Acting in a Comedy | Harriet Dyer | Nominated |
| 2025 | Best Guest or Supporting Actress in a Comedy | Celeste Barber | Nominated |
| 2025 | Best Direction in Drama or Comedy | Trent O'Donnell (episode-specific) | Nominated |
| 2025 | Best Editing in Television | (team) | Nominated |