More than two decades on, one of the BBC's most cherished historical drama miniseries continues to be held in the highest regard by viewers across the nation. North and South, adapted from Elizabeth Gaskell's 1855 Victorian novel, charts the journey of Margaret Hale (Daniela Denby-Ashe), who is uprooted from her comfortable existence in the South of England.
After her father abandons his position as a clergyman, he moves his family away from their tranquil rural surroundings and into the gritty industrial town of Milton. As Margaret battles to adjust to the grinding poverty of northern factory life, everything changes when she encounters cotton mill owner John Thornton (Richard Armitage). Though the pair are initially at loggerheads, a slow-burning romance gradually takes hold between them — one that devoted fans believe rivals Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, reports Wales Online.
Richard Armitage Reflects on 20th Anniversary
Two years ago, to mark the 20th anniversary of the beloved period drama, Richard Armitage reflected on the profound effect that portraying John Thornton had on his life and career. Posting a photograph on Instagram of his character tenderly touching Margaret's face, the actor took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the show's loyal fanbase. He captioned the post: "I'm giving all of the 2004 BBC adaptation of 'North and South' family, friends, and fans, a big smacker on the lips today to say thank you for the last 20 years of love and support. Thornton was a career-changing role and one that I'll never forget."
Fans Declare It a 'Must-Watch'
Singing the show's praises online, one viewer remarked: "It is amazing...acting, scenery, story, etc. It is simply mesmerising. I read the book after watching the series and personally liked the series better." Echoing the sentiment, another wrote: "This is one of the best, if not the best period miniseries to come out of Britain in recent years. Being an avid Pride and Prejudice (and Colin Firth fan), this is better."
A further viewer enthused: "Fantastic. Absolutely gorgeous period drama! As a huge fan of the BBC's Pride and Prejudice, this has quickly become my favourite!" Another added: "Accurate casting, fantastic costumes, authentic settings and the soundtrack really add to the quality of the series. It has all the passion that Pride and Prejudice (Bless it!) lacks."
Yet another chimed in: "I love it! I absolutely adore 95 Pride and Prejudice, but the kiss at the end always slightly disappointed me. It must be a bit tricky in a moving carriage. North and South kisses are just heaven!" Wholeheartedly agreeing, a fellow viewer declared: "THAT KISS LIVES RENT FREE IN MY HEAD. The North and South one, the Pride and Prejudice one, is just okay."
North and South is available to watch on Channel 4 and U.
