'Brilliant' Toby Jones comedy drama to leave Netflix on Sunday

One of the most quietly brilliant and beloved British comedy dramas of the past decade is about to vanish from Netflix, giving fans just a few days to enjoy its gentle humour and warm-hearted storytelling before it goes.

First broadcast on BBC Four in 2014, Detectorists became a word-of-mouth hit thanks to its beautifully observed characters, understated comedy, and stunning rural setting.

The series follows two amateur metal detectorists, Andy (played by Mackenzie Crook, who also wrote and directed the series) and Lance (played by Toby Jones), as they search the English countryside for buried treasures while dealing with their own everyday struggles and hopes.

Unlike many modern comedies, Detectorists delivers a calm, measured style of humour, steering away from slapstick or shock value. Its tone is refreshingly gentle and intelligent, which has won it dedicated fans around the world.

One viewer praised it on Google, writing: "I admit I have rewatched the whole series several times now and still laugh at the same things. The acting is wonderful as is the rapport between the various characters and the witty dialogue still sounds fresh and real."

Others have highlighted how the show stands apart from other contemporary comedies, describing it as "a refreshing change from the often juvenile and comic-book type 'comedies' that are out there. This is for adults who appreciate intelligent yet hilarious and gentle humour that has something to say."

Set against the gentle backdrop of a fictional Essex village, Detectorists explores themes of friendship, loyalty, dreams, and disappointments, all while keeping its tone consistently kind and respectful.

As one reviewer described it, "A calm, beautiful show which shows utmost kindness to its characters. It makes you cry, laugh, fall in love with characters, learn to take life a bit easy and be a little kinder to yourself and others."

The chemistry between Jones and Crook is one of the show's greatest strengths, and their portrayal of these quiet hobbyists is filled with authenticity and warmth.

The rest of the ensemble - including Rachael Stirling, Aimee-Ffion Edwards, Gerard Horan, and Sophie Thompson - help to build a believable and funny community around the metal-detecting club, which one fan called "such a funny gem of an idea."

Toby Jones, a BAFTA-winning actor known for a huge range of roles from Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy to Captain America, is often singled out for his subtle, humane performance as Lance. His ability to play an everyman with relatable worries and quiet courage is a key reason the show resonates with so many viewers.

The show's visuals and music have also drawn praise. Its folksy theme, composed and performed by Johnny Flynn, is regularly highlighted by audiences.

As one review put it, "Even the accompanying music is a joy to listen to and fits like a glove, unlike many music scores that overwhelm or try to dictate emotional responses." Another viewer remarked, "The shots throughout are beautiful and the show itself is so grasping and entertaining."

Detectorists won the BAFTA for Best Scripted Comedy in 2015 and remains one of the most highly rated British comedies of recent years, earning a loyal audience that often returns to rewatch it. One fan summed up its appeal perfectly: "What a beautiful idea behind the entire series! It takes little things in life and brings out the beauty in them."

Detectorists, starring Toby Jones and Mackenzie Crook, will be leaving the streaming platform on July 6.