75 minSeason 1 • Episode 4
LatestRoger returns from Africa after Osborne's death to find his sister-in-law and his nephew living at their home as well. Cynthia has accepted the proposal of lawyer Mr Henderson, while Roger seems to have his heart set on Molly.
The life of doctor's daughter Molly Gibson changes gradually after her widowed father chooses to remarry. The union brings into her once-quiet life an ever-proper stepmother and flirtatious stepsister, Cynthia, while a friendship with the local squire brings about an unexpected romance.
Acting
Keeley Hawes makes Cynthia's selfishness devastatingly magnetic.
Writing
Davies adapts unfinished novel with infuriatingly perfect restraint.
Costume
Molly's dull frocks vs Cynthia's brilliance = visual storytelling.
Creator
Andrew Davies
Justine Waddell
Molly Gibson
Keeley Hawes
Cynthia Kirkpatrick
Michael Gambon
Squire Hamley
Tom Hollander
Osborne Hamley
Anthony Howell
Roger Hamley
Bill Paterson
Mr Gibson
Francesca Annis
Mrs Hyacinth Gibson (née Kirkpatrick)
Iain Glen
Mr Preston
Barbara Flynn
Miss Browning
Deborah Findlay
Miss Phoebe
Emily McKenzie
Maria
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Elizabeth Gaskell died before finishing the novel; the 1999 ending is pure Davies invention that fans largely accept as canon.
The series quietly celebrates emerging Victorian science through Roger, making him radical love interest material for 1864.
GB
