Season 2 • Episode 11
LatestThoughts of Katie bring Jon back from the brink of his second suicide attempt. With an overwhelming sense of responsibility to his daughter, he knows he's got to sort his life out. She's all he's got left now, and whatever it takes, he wants her back. Emma's in turmoil about her pregnancy, with boyfriend Carl admitting he's got a low sperm count, and having recently succumbed to the advances of her ex, Andy. She's certain the baby has to be Carl's and when she tells him he's about to become a father, his delight reassures her she's doing the right thing. It doesn't take long for Andy to find out the news - and put two and two together. He's straight round demanding a blood test. In desperation and confusion, Emma deals the ultimate blow, and tells Andy that if she thought the baby was his - she'd get rid of it. Resentful and bitter, Andy can't hold back any longer. During an argument with Carl, knowing it will crush him, he tells him about his night with Emma. Carl is ready to kill And
Carl, Jon and Andy have been mates forever. They are Generation X-hardened party animals but their party train is grinding to a halt. Andy is getting married. They never thought it would come to this. They have spent 10 years running away from responsibility but now they've reached 30 it has suddenly hit them between the eyes.
Writing
Matt Greenhalgh captures Manchester ladspeak with painful accuracy.
Acting
Ash and Coghill sell 10 years of history in every bickering scene.
Creator
Matt Greenhalgh
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Burn It arrived just as 'lad culture' was dying; it's essentially a funeral for 1990s Mancunian hedonism. The title comes from the mates' pact to destroy incriminating photos before any wedding.
Greenhalgh later wrote Control and Film Stars Don't Die in Liverpool; this was his practice run at Manchester male melancholy. BBC Three cancelled it after two seasons despite decent ratings.
GB
