I really only have room for one (at most two) shows in my life at a time, but BSG kept me occupied in the years before I discovered House, and with the exception of maybe a couple of stinkers, had me riveted for every episode. Lots of character-driven drama and forbidden 'ships and food for philosophizing. It is kind of grim, definitely. But there's a hopeful note as well. It is one long extended and complicated plot, though, so it's pretty critical to start at the beginning and watch in order.

Update: I just read the second chapter of parrotfic's series, and am commenting now; it's even better than the first.

No problem at all, thank you for including your rec! I did actually start reading "Amends" when stormseller posted a recent chapter, and I remember thinking, damn, this is good, and I should go back and read the rest, and then I got distracted or something. And, um, best of luck with your brother!