“It’s too far to swim back now.” –Leah
From Sir Lenny Henry comes Three Little Birds. Inspired by stories told by Henry’s mother, the series focuses on two sisters, Leah (Rochelle Neil) and Chantrelle (Saffron Coomber), who set out on a steamboat with their friend Hosanna (Yazmin Belo) from Jamaica to England in 1957.
Upon arriving, the trio must navigate England, namely the racism of many of the country’s citizens toward immigrants. Atop the stresses of leaving Jamaica for a new country and hopefully better lives, the trio is dealing with loved ones left behind, trying to make ends meet and dealing with a plethora of curveballs life continues to throw at them. Whether doing their jobs, going to church, or simply out for a night on the town, prejudice which also means danger, lurks around every corner.
The brilliant writing of the series brings the story to life for the audience, but it wouldn’t be possible without the captivating cast. Although Leah, Chantrelle, and Hosanna may be on different paths and have differing reasons for journeying to England, every viewer will likely relate to each of them, and that is in part due to the fantastic performances of Rochelle Neil, Saffron Coomber, and Yazmin Belo. Regardless of the scene— dramatic or comedic—Neil, Coomber, and Belo fired on all cylinders. All three brought so much depth and liveliness to their characters that you loved and rooted for them every step of the way.
A bonus to the casting was Javone Prince as Aston and Bobby Gordon as Shelton. While the pair both had some funny moments, Prince and Gordon shine in their more emotional scenes. Together, the five actors easily bring Three Little Birds to life, with their casting so pitch-perfect that it is difficult to even think of any others in their respective roles.
Written by Henry in collaboration with Russell T. Davies, Three Little Birds works so perfectly that you often feel that instead of watching television, you’re a fly on the wall that’s been transported through time, and you are privy to everything happening with this tight-knit family. Henry’s care in sharing his family’s story is impactful and personal, tugging on the heartstrings at every turn. It is impossible to look away as the characters in the story make the way for themselves, unknowing that they are paving the way for many after them. Henry ensured never to shy away from the struggles and heartache the main characters navigated throughout the series. It was integral to the story and essential to both show and discuss the racism faced, as well as equally important to show the characters in their joy and laughter.
As someone of Jamaican heritage, Three Little Birds spoke to me like no other series has. I was familiar with the show’s storytelling because I’d heard similar stories from relatives about leaving Jamaica in search of hopefully finding something more promising. Whether it was to become a star like Chantrelle or provide a better life for her family like Leah, there was a relatability to the series that I and many others with Caribbean immigrant grandparents and parents from across the diaspora understand.
Equal parts heart-wrenching and heartwarming, Three Little Birds is a must-watch series.
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