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Small Prophets

Small Prophets is a 2026 British television comedy-drama series created, written and directed by Mackenzie Crook.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Small Prophets is a 2026 British television comedy-drama series created, written and directed by Mackenzie Crook. The series follows Michael Sleep, a man who turns to alchemy and homunculi while searching for his missing girlfriend. It premiered on BBC Two on 9 February 2026 and is available on BBC iPlayer.

Premise

Small Prophets follows Michael Sleep as he searches for answers after his girlfriend disappeared seven years earlier. The plot develops through a mix of comedy, mystery and supernatural elements involving alchemy, homunculi and prophecy, with much of the action set around a garden shed.

Production

The series was created, written and directed by Mackenzie Crook. It was produced for the BBC and filmed in Greater Manchester.

Cast

The lead cast includes Pearce Quigley as Michael Sleep and Sir Michael Palin in a supporting role. Other credited cast members include Lauren Patel, Sophie Willan and Jon Pointing.

Music

The soundtrack was composed by Amelia Baker, who records as Cinder Well. Her original theme song for the series is titled "The Wise Man's Song."

Key facts

  • Small Prophets is a six-part comedy-drama commissioned by the BBC.
  • The series stars Pearce Quigley as Michael Sleep, a man searching for his missing girlfriend.
  • The story incorporates alchemy, homunculi and prophecy.
  • Mackenzie Crook created, wrote and directed the entire series.
  • Amelia Baker (Cinder Well) composed the original score and theme song "The Wise Man's Song."

Frequently asked questions

What is Small Prophets?
Small Prophets is a British television comedy-drama series about a man searching for his missing girlfriend while becoming involved in alchemy and prophecy.
Who created Small Prophets?
It was created, written and directed by Mackenzie Crook.
Who stars in Small Prophets?
Pearce Quigley plays the lead role of Michael Sleep, with Sir Michael Palin among the supporting cast.
Who composed the music for Small Prophets?
Amelia Baker, who performs as Cinder Well, composed the original score and theme song.
When did Small Prophets premiere?
It premiered on BBC Two on 9 February 2026.

References

  1. BBC News — https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0jvj194dg2o
    Supports: Series description, creator, cast, setting, and BBC production details.
  2. Radio Times — https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/comedy/small-prophets-soundtrack-who-wrote-the-theme-song/
    Supports: Music credit and confirmation that Cinder Well composed the theme song and soundtrack.
  3. Bandcamp — https://cinderwell.bandcamp.com/track/the-wise-mans-song-original-theme-from-small-prophets
    Supports: Artist statement that Amelia Baker/Cinder Well composed the original theme and score for Small Prophets.
  4. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/small_prophets/s01/e01/cast-and-crew
    Supports: Premiere date, episode information, and cast listing.