Gentleman Jack, the BBC period drama starring Suranne Jones as landowner Anne Lister, has been hailed as a 'masterpiece' and the 'best of all time' by fans and critics. The series, created by Sally Wainwright for BBC One, is based on Lister's extensive diaries, which run to roughly five million words with about a sixth in secret code, documenting a lifetime of lesbian relationships. Helena Whitbread began decoding and transcribing the diaries in the 1980s, and other transcribers have continued the work since then.
Plot and Setting
Set in 1830s Yorkshire, the series follows Anne Lister, a landowner and industrialist determined to save her faded ancestral home, Shibden Hall, even if it means bucking society's expectations. In addition to reopening coal mines, Lister plans to marry well—but has no intention of marrying a man. The series examines her relationships with family, servants, tenants, industrial rivals, and her would-be wife, Ann Walker, played by Sophie Rundle.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Reactions
Both series of Gentleman Jack have met with critical acclaim, earning a 92% rating from Rotten Tomatoes critics. The critics' consensus states: 'Suranne Jones' boundless charisma brings the indomitable Anne Lister to vivid life in Gentleman Jack, a gently revelatory series that mines terrific humour from the icon's unapologetic forward-thinkingness—although the series isn't as willing to ruffle feathers as she was.'
Screen Rant listed the series in its '20 Best BBC Period Dramas Of All Time'. One fan described it as a 'masterpiece', adding: 'The research that was done to bring this interesting story of Anne Lister's life to the screen was monumental and very well used in creating the script. The acting is excellent, from a very strong cast and led by Suranne Jones (as Ms Lister), who has given such a magnificent performance throughout all eight episodes that she must surely have inspired her colleagues as well as the audience.'
Availability
Gentleman Jack is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
