The Odd Couple: This Year’s Most Uniquely Soul-Enriching TV Show

I often find myself outside major television studios, shouting through a megaphone. It’s an odd hobby of mine when I’m not busy writing this column. While the BBC wishes I would stop, ITV seems to enjoy the attention. My key message through my military-grade amplifier is simple: there is no substitute for chemistry.

This might sound peculiar, but the lack of chemistry on television has been quite disheartening. Whether it’s guests struggling to keep their eyes open in front of presenters, actors barely pretending to like each other, or almost every episode of Travel Man featuring Richard Ayoade. When the people on screen lack chemistry, it feels like an hour of my life wasted. Small talk falling flat? I can experience that firsthand at any party!

Recently, it seems my noisy pleas have been heard by someone at Channel 4. This week, we’re treated to the delightfully charming one-off show, Dame Judi and Jay: The Odd Couple (18 August, 9pm, Channel 4). It’s an hour of television that’s not only one of the year’s strangest crossover events but also one of its most heartwarming.

The premise is intriguing: Jay Blades from The Repair Shop is best friends with Dame Judi Dench. Yes, you read that correctly. Their friendship began during an episode of The Repair Shop – the BBC’s heartwarming franchise known for its tear-jerking moments and unmissable Christmas specials – about two years ago. They’ve been in touch ever since, hanging out like old pals.

Dame Judi is 89 and received an OBE the same year Jay Blades was born. He once aspired to be a DJ before becoming a notable figure known for his distinctive flat cap and gold tooth. In contrast, Dame Judi is known for her striking blue eyes. Their towering height difference is just one of the many delightful disparities between them. Yet, somehow, their dynamic works, creating magical television.

The show’s structure is simple: they embark on a five-day road trip, though it’s more of a tour around London and a bit beyond. They share glimpses of their lives with each other, visiting places that hold significance for them. For instance, Jay takes Dame Judi to Ridley Road Market, where she ends up working at a plantain stall. Dame Judi, on the other hand, takes Jay to the Old Vic, where she performs captivating Shakespearean monologues to an audience of one.

They stroll arm in arm along canals, drive around in an Aston Martin where Dame Judi looks adorably tiny, and showcase their contrasting yet complementary personalities. The show skillfully emphasizes their differences while highlighting their genuine friendship.

Dame Judi’s quick wit shines throughout. At one point, a producer asks, “What’s the major difference between you two, do you think?” She mischievously responds, “He’s very tall.”

But it’s the heartfelt bond between them that makes this hour of television so enjoyable. Even for someone as cynical as myself, I found myself smiling throughout. “Road trip TV” has become quite popular in recent years, and some pairings work wonderfully (like Rob and Rylan in Grand Tour) while others fall flat (anything involving Jamie Redknapp on Sky).

Often, these shows feel overly scripted, with meticulously planned set pieces and every filming permit draining the spontaneity. But Dame Judi and Jay doesn’t suffer from this. Their genuine delight in each other’s company is palpable – she’s a playful mischief-maker, and he’s incredibly kind. Watching them interact feels like hanging out with old friends.

The hour is filled with delightful moments, from discovering Dame Judi’s 007-themed doormat to Jay teaching her how to DJ with jungle vinyl. These quirky, heartwarming interactions make the show truly special. It may sound bizarre, but the blend of mind-bending oddity and genuine warmth is what makes it so compelling. I’ll gladly take 100 more episodes of it. Truly, there is no substitute for chemistry!

Source: The Guardian