Netflix's upcoming comedy-drama The Duchess isn't what you would expect. What some might assume is an original rom-com centered around a royal is actually a much deeper look into the complexities of a single mom [1] — Katherine — who is trying to navigate the relationship with her boyfriend and the decision to have a second child with her ex.
In the six-episode series, Katherine — who also wrote, created, and directed the show — plays a single mother living in London whose daughter, Olive, is the center of her world. With her heart set on having a second child [2] — and doing so alone — Katherine debates whether or not to have one with Olive's dad, a guy named Shepherd Knight (played by Irish actor Rory Keenan), a washed-up former boy-band star who lives on a houseboat in Camden. In addition to offering up lots of laughs and a few cringey (yet hilarious) moments, from the trailer, it also appears we're going to get some serious fashion inspiration from Katherine's wardrobe, which is full of designer bags, statement headbands, and a few cheeky sweatshirts.
Known best for her stand-up comedy and hilarious guest appearances on panel shows like 8 Out of 10 Cats, QI, and Have I Got News For You, The Duchess is Katherine's first scripted TV series. Fans of the Canadian-born, UK-based actor, however, will recognize in her character the same deadpan, self-deprecating humor that characterizes her stand-up routines — two of which you can currently watch on Netflix: Katherine Ryan: Glitter Room and Katherine Ryan: In Trouble.
Above, watch the trailer for The Duchess, which will be available on Netflix starting Sept. 11.