Fans of the long-running BBC crime drama Silent Witness were introduced to a compelling new character at the start of last year, with actress Francesca Mills joining the cast as crime analyst Kit Brooks. Her performance quickly endeared her to viewers, becoming a fan-favourite in a series that has recently kept audiences on edge regarding the fate of a beloved character.
A Dramatic Transformation
However, before her forensic work on the BBC show, Francesca Mills showcased her versatility in a strikingly different role. The 29-year-old actress appeared in the popular period drama Harlots, portraying sex worker Cherry Dorrington. This series, set in 18th-century London, presents a stark contrast to the modern crime-solving environment of Silent Witness.
The World of Harlots
Harlots follows the turbulent life of brothel owner Margaret Wells, played by Samantha Morton, and her two daughters, Charlotte (Jessica Brown-Findlay) and Lucy (Eloise Smyth). The narrative centres on a brutal conflict that erupts when Margaret's business is attacked by ruthless rival madam Lydia Quigley, portrayed by Lesley Manville. This sparks a war over London's most profitable commercial activity during that era.
A synopsis of the series explains: "Margaret is determined to fight back and protect her business, even if it puts everything else at risk, including her family." The drama first aired in 2017 and captivated audiences across three series until its conclusion in 2019, leaving many fans disappointed by its end.
Critical Acclaim and Availability
Over the years, Harlots has garnered significant praise from viewers and critics alike. One enthusiastic fan remarked: "Indulge yourself and watch this series!!! The rating doesn't do it any justice! I found that I became further enthralled as the show progressed. Brilliant acting, with a fabulous cast. A very well-written series indeed."
Another viewer celebrated the series' diverse appeal, stating: "Sex. Drinking. Swearing. Romance. Comedy. Tear-inducing drama. I'm totally in love with this series." A third praised the performances: "I just love this series, and the acting was outstanding. Jessica Brown Findlay was so sexy in this series. Remember her from Downton Abby? Lesley Manville and Samantha Morton did some of the best acting I've ever seen."
For those interested in historical dramas with strong female leads, one recommendation highlighted: "If you love historical dramas, look no further. If you like strong female leads, look no further. While the title implies you're going to be getting a lot of sex, that is not the case. I binged the whole first season in one day, it's that good."
Free Streaming Opportunity
While Harlots is available on subscription services like Netflix and Amazon Video, there is now an excellent opportunity to watch it without cost. The entire series is currently streaming completely for free on the platform U, allowing both new viewers and fans to revisit Francesca Mills' earlier work and enjoy this acclaimed period drama.
This provides a perfect chance to explore the actress's range, from the gritty historical setting of Harlots to the contemporary forensic investigations of Silent Witness, showcasing her talent across different genres and eras.
