The BBC period drama has been described as "sensual, fun, and brilliant" and is perfect for fans of Downton Abbey and The Gilded Age. This underrated gem is just waiting to be discovered.
What Is Gentleman Jack?
Gentleman Jack is a British historical drama created by Sally Wainwright, known for Happy Valley and Scott and Bailey. It is a joint venture between BBC One and HBO. The series debuted in the UK in 2019, with a second season in 2022. However, HBO confirmed they would not commission a third season, though the BBC expressed interest in finding new production partners.
The show stars Suranne Jones and Sophie Rundle, who have received widespread acclaim for their performances. They are supported by an ensemble cast including Joe Armstrong, Amelia Bullmore, Rosie Cavaliero, Gemma Jones, Gemma Whelan, and Timothy West.
Plot and Setting
Set in 1832 in West Yorkshire during the Industrial Revolution, the series follows landowner Anne Lister, who is determined to save her ancestral home, Shibden Hall. She bucks society's expectations by reopening coal mines and seeking a wife instead of marrying a man. The show explores Lister's relationships with family, servants, tenants, and industrial rivals.
The real Anne Lister documented her life in personal diaries, with intimate details brought to life in the series.
Critical Acclaim
Gentleman Jack boasts a 92% average rating on Rotten Tomatoes across both seasons. Critics have praised it as "lively, tongue-in-cheek, and enormously playful," calling it "an utter gem of British drama." Another critic described it as "exuberant, fun, and playful," while a third called it "a buoyant, utterly seductive drama." One review stated: "Gentleman Jack is disrupting the conventions of one of our most fiercely loved dramatic forms... It is a masterpiece."
Audience reactions are equally glowing. One IMDB user wrote: "Enjoying every minute of this outstanding series. I rarely give a 10 star rating but this one captures a top rating from me." Another commented: "There are no words that can describe my excitement... Suranne Jones's performance is intoxicating." A Rotten Tomatoes viewer said: "Everything about this show is absolutely brilliant. The production values are as good as anything I've seen."
Where to Watch
Both seasons of Gentleman Jack are available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer. The show's official synopsis notes: "It's 1832 in West Yorkshire... where landowner Anne Lister is determined to save her faded ancestral home... even if it means bucking society's expectations."
With its compelling story, outstanding performances, and critical acclaim, Gentleman Jack is a must-watch for period drama enthusiasts.
