The Dry

The Dry

Series 1

Full series available on ITVX

Series 1 overview

From the producers of Normal People, this moving comedy-drama is an irreverent, sharp and funny depiction of a family in various forms of denial. The story centres on 35-year-old Shiv, the eldest daughter, as she returns to Ireland for her grandmother’s wake, taking a break from London and her ‘career’ (with a small ‘c’) in art. Shiv is six months sober, and it is fair to say her life is not going as planned. Shiv’s family – who have never really dealt with or talked about the damage caused by the sudden death of her adored elder brother, not to mention her parents’ failing marriage or Shiv’s own chaotic behaviour – are wary of having her back. To make matters worse there’s also her charmer of an ex-boyfriend Jack, who has the uncanny knack of always appearing when she’s at her most vulnerable. His charming presence reminds Shiv of the excitement and thrill of excess from her youth – to call him a trigger would be an understatement. Can Shiv come to terms with her true addiction and the realities of her life, amid a dysfunctional yet loveable family who are each individually facing their own demons?

Episode 3

Shiv bonds with her new sponsor Karen, who encourages her to do a ‘moral inventory’. Afterwards she is horrified when she happens upon her dad and his acupuncturist in the throes of passion in a city alleyway.  Bernie becomes increasingly worried about her missing neighbour Pam.  Ant dons a suit and interviews at an estate-agent’s, where he nabs the job thanks to some old-fashioned nepotism. Caroline agrees to go for a drink with a senior consultant at her hospital. Appalled at her dad, Shiv calls a ‘family meeting’ for the following day. Shiv’s ex, Jack, helps her get a job at an art gallery.