The Quiet Triumph of 'Trying': Why This Underrated Gem Deserves Your Attention
There’s something profoundly satisfying about stumbling upon a show that feels like a well-kept secret. Trying, Apple TV’s quietly brilliant comedy-drama, is exactly that. Now in its fifth season, it’s a series that has consistently flown under the radar, despite its near-perfect Rotten Tomatoes score and critical acclaim. Personally, I think this is part of its charm. It’s not a show that screams for attention; it’s one that invites you to linger, to reflect, and to care deeply about its characters. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it manages to tackle universal themes—parenthood, relationships, ambition—with such warmth and wit, without ever feeling saccharine or predictable.
At its core, Trying is a story about Nikki and Jason, a couple in their 30s navigating the complexities of building a family. What many people don’t realize is how rare it is to see such an ordinary, relatable pair at the center of a TV show. They’re not glamorous, they’re not flawed in a way that feels contrived—they’re just two people trying their best. Their journey from infertility struggles to adopting siblings Princess and Tyler is both heartwarming and painfully real. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a story that could be happening in any suburban home, and that’s precisely what makes it so compelling.
One thing that immediately stands out in Season 5 is the introduction of Kat, the biological mother of Princess and Tyler. Her arrival disrupts the family’s hard-won stability, and Nikki’s fear of losing her place as a mother is palpable. A detail that I find especially interesting is how the show handles this dynamic. It doesn’t villainize Kat; instead, it explores the messy, complicated emotions that arise when biological ties intersect with adoptive bonds. This raises a deeper question: What does it mean to be a parent? Is it about blood, or is it about the love and effort you put in?
Meanwhile, Nikki’s newfound attraction to her colleague Kerry adds another layer of tension. In my opinion, this storyline isn’t just about potential infidelity—it’s about self-discovery. Nikki is at a crossroads, juggling motherhood, a new career, and her own desires. What this really suggests is that even in a seemingly stable relationship, there’s always room for growth, doubt, and change. It’s a reminder that life doesn’t stop evolving, even when you think you’ve figured it out.
On the other side, Jason’s decision to train as a social worker feels like a natural extension of his character. He’s always been the steady, empathetic one, and this career shift feels authentic. From my perspective, this is where the show’s writing shines—it doesn’t force dramatic arcs for the sake of it. Instead, it lets characters grow in ways that feel true to who they are.
What makes Trying even more impressive is its ensemble cast. The addition of Celia Imrie as Harriet, an eccentric hoarder, and Phil Davis as Jason’s DIY-obsessed dad, Vic, brings a richness to the show’s world. These characters aren’t just side notes; they’re fully realized individuals who add depth and humor. Personally, I think this is a testament to the show’s ability to balance multiple storylines without losing focus on its core.
But let’s not forget the heart of the show: the relationship between Nikki and Jason. Nikki’s high-strung perfectionism and Jason’s laid-back demeanor create a dynamic that’s both comedic and deeply touching. Their chemistry is effortless, and their love feels earned. What many people don’t realize is how rare it is to see a couple on TV who genuinely like each other, flaws and all. It’s a refreshing change from the usual drama-driven relationships we’re used to.
If you take a step back and think about it, Trying is more than just a show about parenthood—it’s a show about life. It’s about the small victories, the quiet struggles, and the everyday moments that make us human. In a world where TV often feels the need to be loud and flashy, Trying is a breath of fresh air.
As the season unfolds, I find myself reflecting on the broader implications of its storytelling. Why do we gravitate toward shows like this? Perhaps it’s because they remind us that life isn’t about grand gestures, but about the steady, often unglamorous work of showing up for the people we love. Trying doesn’t offer easy answers, but it does offer something far more valuable: a sense of connection.
Long may it continue, indeed.
