About a Boy (2014)
A footloose bachelor's carefully constructed life of leisure gets wonderfully complicated when an earnest boy and his free-spirited mother arrive next door.
About a Boy - Series Information
- Original Title: About a Boy
- First Air Year: 2014
- Last Air Year: 2015
- Created by: Nick Hornby
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Comedy, Drama
- Content Rating (US): TV-PG
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (21 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Number of Episodes: 33
- Status: Canceled
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: February 22, 2014 (United States - TV-PG), February 22, 2014 (Germany - 16), February 22, 2014 (France - 16), February 22, 2014 (India - U), February 22, 2014 (Brazil - 12), February 22, 2014 (Mexico - A), February 22, 2014 (Spain - 13)
- Networks: NBC
- Production Companies: Tribeca Productions, Working Title Television, Universal Television, True Jack Productions
- Production Countries: United States of America, United Kingdom
About a Boy - Plot
Will Freeman lives a charmed existence as the ultimate man-child. After writing a hit song, he was granted a life of free time, free love and freedom from financial woes. He's single, unemployed and loving it. So imagine his surprise when Fiona, a needy single mom and her oddly charming 11-year-old son, Marcus, move in next door and disrupt his perfect world. When Marcus begins dropping by his home unannounced, Will's not so sure about being a kid's new best friend, until, of course, Will discovers that women find single dads irresistible. That changes everything and a deal is struck: Marcus will pretend to be Will's son and, in return, Marcus is allowed to chill at Will's house. Before he realizes it, Will starts to enjoy the visits and even finds himself looking out for the kid. In fact, this newfound friendship may very well teach him a thing or two that he never imagined possible - about himself and caring for others.
About a Boy - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see what makes this unlikely friendship so irresistible:
You don't have to be family to be family
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About a Boy - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Nick Hornby
Main Cast
- David Walton
- Minnie Driver
- Benjamin Stockham
- Al Madrigal
- Annie Mumolo
- Adrianne Palicki
- Izabela Vidovic
- Aaron Fernando
- Chris Diamantopoulos
- Ava Davila
Writers
- Mark Kunerth
- David M. Israel
- Carrie Kemper
- Cara DiPaolo
- Jason Katims
About a Boy - FAQs
Is About a Boy based on a book or film?
The series is adapted from Nick Hornby's beloved 1998 novel of the same name, which was also the basis for the acclaimed 2002 film starring Hugh Grant. The TV version transplants the story to San Francisco and reimagines the characters for an American audience while keeping the novel's warm, comedic spirit.
Where can you stream About a Boy?
About a Boy is available to stream on Peacock Premium and Peacock Premium Plus. You can also purchase episodes on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home. Free ad-supported viewing is available on Xumo Play.
Why was About a Boy cancelled after two seasons?
NBC cancelled About a Boy in 2015 after two seasons, citing declining ratings. Despite a loyal fanbase and positive critical reception, the show struggled to grow its audience in a competitive primetime landscape. The cancellation came as a disappointment to many viewers who had embraced its warmth and humor.
Who are the main cast members of About a Boy?
The series stars David Walton as the charming slacker Will, Minnie Driver as his neurotic neighbor Fiona, and Benjamin Stockham as Marcus, the precocious 11-year-old who turns Will's world upside down. Supporting cast includes Al Madrigal, Annie Mumolo, Adrianne Palicki, and Chris Diamantopoulos.
How many seasons and episodes does About a Boy have?
About a Boy ran for two seasons on NBC, totaling 33 episodes. Season 1 comprised 13 episodes, while Season 2 expanded to 20 episodes before the network cancelled the series in 2015.
Is About a Boy worth watching?
For fans of warm, character-driven comedies, absolutely. The show earns genuine laughs while delivering surprisingly touching moments about friendship and growing up — at any age. David Walton and Benjamin Stockham share an effortlessly likable chemistry, and Minnie Driver brings real heart to what could have been a one-note role.
What is the content rating for About a Boy?
About a Boy carries a TV-PG rating in the United States, making it suitable for general family audiences with parental guidance suggested for younger viewers. The show's humor and themes are light and accessible, though some adult situations and mild language are present throughout the series.
What shows are similar to About a Boy?
If About a Boy hit the spot, you might enjoy The Flatshare, How I Met Your Father, or Shifting Gears for similarly warm comedic vibes. Classic sitcom fans could also explore The Vicar of Dibley or The Good Life, which share the show's blend of quirky characters and heartfelt humor.
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