10.053 minSeason 1 • Episode 6
LatestFinal episode of the adaptation of the Dicken's novel. Jonas is still hounded by Montague Tigg. He constructs an elaborate alibi before travelling to Wiltshire and under cover of darkness, he waylays Tigg and murders him. Back in London, Jonas is accused of the murder of his father, but Chuffey reveals that Anthony knew he intended to kill him and that he died of a broken heart on discovering his son's plot. Tom Pinch finds that his mysterious benefactor is none other than Old Martin Chuzzlewit who now seeks Tom's help to call a family conference. When Nadgett and the police come to arrest Jonas for the murder of Tigg he commits suicide rather than face a trial.
Old Martin Chuzzlewit is nearing his death. Who will inherit his riches? With such a prize to play for, the Chuzzlewit family bring forth all of their cunning, greed and selfishness.
Acting
Paul Scofield's twin performances are masterclass
Writing
Dickens' satire sharpened to dagger point
Production
Victorian decay never looked so gorgeously grim
Creator
David Lodge
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Dickens hated America after his 1842 tour and wrote the satirical Eden subplot as revenge—the book flopped initially because American readers canceled their subscriptions.
Paul Scofield plays both Martin brothers by subtle physical distinction alone, a theatrical tour-de-force that won him a BAFTA for what amounts to a two-hander with himself.
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