The Thick of It/Heartwarming

Glenn's breakdown under his co-workers constant badgering, where he insists that his ridiculous, thankless job is his life, and that he's not a figure of fun. A moment later, Malcolm enlists him for the final showdown with Dan Miller and Nick Hanway: "I need a man - and you're a man". Finally, Butt Monkey Glenn gets some recognition.
- Robyn is quite sweet in that scene too, offering Glenn her chocolate and suggesting he goes for a run "because that releases endorphins."
When a serious fuck-up has resulted in the headmaster of Nicola's daughter's school getting sacked because of Nicola, even Malcolm realises that this has gone too far, and it is clear he feels genuinely sorry for what's happened, as shown by him trying to break the news to Nicola gently. Since he doesn't really have any experience being gentle and sympathetic, he is very awkward about it, and doesn't really do much to make her feel better, but it's nice to see him make the effort.
Sam's "Happy Birthday, Malcolm" anyone?
- Yes! Made all the sweeter because he tries to brush her off, but you can tell his heart isn't really in it.
Olly on Glenn's plans to stand in the general election: "I am strangely really proud of you".
In series 3, Malcolm apologizes to Glenn for punching him in the face and gives him a hug. Although, since he's Malcolm Tucker, this might more properly be seen as Nightmare Fuel.
Malcolm running to Sam's defense when she's crying in response to him getting sacked. His entire world is imploding, and he's upset because they made Sam cry.

Back to The Thick of It