About this season
Second thoughts is a British sitcom that ran from 3 May 1991 to 14 October 1994. It was broadcast on ITV and made by LWT. It was followed by a sequel, Faith in the future. Second thoughts followed the lives of two middle-aged divorcees, Bill MacGregor and Faith Greyshott, from very different backgrounds trying to develop a relationship, despite the pressures pulling it apart. Second thoughts was based upon the real-life relationship of the writers, husband and wife Jan Etherington and Gavin Petrie. It originally aired as a radio series on BBC Radio 4 broadcast between 1 November 1988 and 23 July 1992. The radio series consisted of four series and a Christmas special broadcast in 1992 with a total of 31 episodes. The radio scripts were used for the television series on ITV. The fifth series was considered weaker than the first four series; it was the only series not to be based on the original radio scripts. Second thoughts ended on 14 October 1994, but has since been repeated on ITV3. The original radio series is often replayed on BBC7.
Episodes (15)
1. Sleeping Partner
Aired 18 October 1992 • 30 min
While collecting her daughter from university, Faith is shocked to discover that Hannah has been sleeping with her boyfriend.
2. Youth and Consequences
Aired 25 October 1992 • 30 min
What with Bill worrying about his image and Hilary's new toy boy, Faith is beginning to feel old.
3. Vice Principle
Aired 1 November 1992 • 30 min
Bill decides to work on ideas for a new magazine at home for a week. But with Faith working there as well, there are problems abound.
4. Double Booked
Aired 8 November 1992 • 30 min
Faith and Bill spend a night away from home in a nearby hotel in the hope of a romantic break.
5. Is Everybody Happy?
Aired 15 November 1992 • 30 min
Bill is fed up with Joe being inconsiderate, and Faith contrives to reunite Richard and Marjorie.
6. Occupational Hazard
Aired 22 November 1992 • 30 min
Faith is looking forward to having a holiday with Bill, but her plans may have to be put on hold when news of Bill's new business venture comes through.
7. Hello, Goodbye
Aired 29 November 1992 • 30 min
When Faith finds out Bill is coming home for a few days, she plans a romantic weekend for them both.
8. Labour of Love
Aired 13 December 1992 • 30 min
Now redundant, Bill decides on a complete change of career, starting with a bit of DIY.
9. Short Change
Aired 20 December 1992 • 30 min
Faith asks Richard to give Bill his job back, while Bill is considering moving upmarket.
10. Sobering Thoughts
Aired 8 January 1993 • 30 min
Liza has been appointed editor of Vista, much to Bill's dismay. Meanwhile, Richard seems to have found a new vocation in life.
11. Old Problem
Aired 15 January 1993 • 30 min
Liza gets taken in, Joe gets a job, and Bill gets a year older.
12. Heartburn
Aired 22 January 1993 • 30 min
Bill's doctor advises him to relax, but with Hannah having boyfriend troubles, it's not that simple.
13. Faint Possibility
Aired 29 January 1993 • 30 min
Hannah's fainting in the wine bar causes Richard to set Bill thinking about what may be the cause of it.
14. Otherwise Engaged
Aired 5 February 1993 • 30 min
Everyone is dismayed by Joe's decision to marry Louise. Could an old face from the past change his mind?
15. Management Decision
Aired 12 February 1993 • 30 min
Bill and Faith's relationship is going through a sticky patch. Matters aren't helped when he and Liza are sent on a management training course in Wales.