Grief Encounter

The death of a beloved spouse isn’t usually the stuff of comedy, but there’s plenty to laugh about in Netflix’s new US series Dead to Me.

- Richard McClure

Following Ricky Gervais’ After Life, the streaming service’s new 10-parter also revolves around bereavement and friendship, and stars Christina Applegate as newly widowed Jen, who wants justice after losing her husband in a hit-and-run incident.

Spurning the touchy-feely sympathy of her friends and neighbours, Jen tries to deal with her anger and bitterness by attending a grief support group, where she meets the mysterious and free-spirited Judy (Mad Men’s Linda Cardellini), who has suffered her own tragic loss.

As the pair bond over their grief, a strong friendship blossoms between them, despite their different personalities. However, Judy has a dark past and seems to be hiding a big secret. Will it destroy the women’s relationship?