Masterpiece ITV period drama ‘like no other’ fans say is ‘miles ahead of The Crown’
Viewers have praised this 1978 drama and urged other history fans to tune into this "fascinating" period drama.
Period drama fanatics have raved about this award-winning ITV drama which first landed on screens in 1978 and depicted the allure of the Victorian era. The mini-series Lillie starred Francesca Annis as the titular character, portraying a complex woman who became one of the most notorious and respected figures of the Victorian era. As well as her rise in popularity, the story followed her transformation from being trapped in a loveless marriage to taking full advantage of her beauty and attracting many lovers and admirers, including the Prince of Wales (played by Dennis Lil) and Oscar Wilde (Peter Egan).
Throughout 13 episodes, viewers raved about the never-before-told storyline, its stellar cast and praised the detail to depict the era through costume and scenery. Among the other star-studded cast are Anthony Head, Annette Crosbie, Anton Rodgers and Catherine Feller. With a flurry of admiration from its viewers, one fan described Lillie as a “fascinating portrait of a woman ahead of her time.”
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While another shared: “I found this biographical series truly fascinating.”
A third added: “Another forgotten classic 1978? Can't be! Remember like it was yesterday. Loved it, I was 18 at the time. We have always been great at making dramas like this. Long may it continue.”
One fan shared: “If you enjoy period English drama, love seeing the beautiful costumes, and want to get enveloped into the delicious, fabulous, tawdry, decadent, funny, sad life of a woman who reinvented herself more than once and survived the times, this is for you.”
As a fifth echoed: “The story of Lillie, the woman ahead of her time, is compelling and maintains interest throughout. The performances are top-notch, with Francessca Annis outstanding as Lillie, playing her with grace, determination and a great deal of charm.”
Sharing their love for the mini series, another fan added: “I have just watched the entire series and can only say how wonderful it was. Great acting (Annis and Egan in particular), great scenery and costumes. Fantastic detail.
“Nice to see appearances by Annette Crosbie, Michael Shannon and Stephanie Cole. Cameo appearance from Desmond Llewellyn, too.”
As well as viewers, Lillie was a huge hit with critics as Annis won the BAFTA Television Award for Best Actress for the role in 1979.
While Lillie Langtry was a real socialite from born in Jersey is 1853, the series is loosely based on her real life as she went on to become a stage actress and producer.
