ITV's highly anticipated true crime drama The Lady makes its debut tonight, bringing a gripping royal story to television screens across the nation. The four-part series, which replaces Shaun Evans' spy thriller Betrayal in the Sunday evening slot, premieres on February 22 at 9pm on ITV and ITVX.
The Premise of The Lady
This compelling drama delves into the shocking true story of Jane Andrews, a working-class woman from Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire, who experienced a dramatic rise and fall. After being hired as Sarah Ferguson's royal dresser at Buckingham Palace, her life took a dark turn when she was made redundant in the late 1970s, ultimately leading to the brutal murder of her boyfriend.
Main Cast Members
Mia McKenna-Bruce as Jane Andrews
At the heart of the drama is Mia McKenna-Bruce, who portrays the complex character of Jane Andrews. McKenna-Bruce rose to fame playing Tee Taylor in Tracy Beaker Returns and has since appeared in notable productions including How to Have Sex, Vampire Academy, and Persuasion. Most recently, she played Lady Eileen "Bundle" Brent in Netflix's adaptation of Agatha Christie's Seven Dials.
Natalie Dormer as Sarah Ferguson
The former Duchess of York is brought to life by acclaimed actress Natalie Dormer, best known for her iconic roles as Margaery Tyrell in HBO's Game of Thrones and Anne Boleyn in The Tudors. Dormer also portrayed Cressida in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2. Her performance promises to give viewers insight into the personal relationship between Sarah Ferguson and her dresser before the tragic events unfolded.
Ed Speleers as Thomas Cressman
Ed Speleers plays Thomas Cressman, Jane Andrews' boyfriend who becomes the victim of her violent crime. Speleers, who had the titular role in the 2006 film Eragon and played Jimmy Kent in Downton Abbey, also appears as villain Stephen Bonnet in MGM+'s Outlander. Audiences may recognize him from his roles in Netflix's psychological thriller You and Star Trek: Picard.
Supporting Cast
Claire Skinner and Daniel Ryan as Jane's Parents
The drama explores Jane Andrews' humble beginnings in Lincolnshire, where she lived in poverty with her family. Her mother, June Andrews, is portrayed by Claire Skinner, best known for playing Sue Brockman in the BBC sitcom Outnumbered, with additional roles in Hilda and McDonald and Dodds. Her father, David Andrews, is played by Daniel Ryan, whose credits include The Bay, Mount Pleasant, and Innocent.
Philip Glenister as DCI Jim Dickie
Following the murder, the investigation is led by DCI Jim Dickie, portrayed by Philip Glenister. Glenister is famous for his role as DCI Gene Hunt in the BBC drama Life on Mars and its sequel Ashes to Ashes. He has also appeared in State of Play as DCI William Bell and played Reverend Anderson in Outcast.
Additional Cast Members
The series features several other high-profile actors whose roles have been kept under wraps. These include Laura Aikman from Gavin and Stacey and This City Is Ours, Ophelia Lovibond from Guardian of the Galaxy, and Mark Stanley from Happy Valley. Their contributions add further depth to this already star-studded production.
What to Expect
The Lady promises to be a captivating exploration of privilege, downfall, and crime within royal circles. With its blend of true crime elements and royal intrigue, combined with a talented ensemble cast, the drama is set to become must-watch television. The series not only examines the shocking murder but also provides context about Jane Andrews' background and her relationship with Sarah Ferguson, offering viewers a comprehensive look at this tragic chapter in British history.
