ITV's The Lady Drama Unites Viewers in Praise for Mia McKenna-Bruce
ITV viewers have been united in their response after watching the channel's latest true crime series, The Lady. The programme, featuring Natalie Dormer as Sarah Ferguson alongside Mia McKenna-Bruce as Jane Andrews, delves into the authentic account of the former royal aide who would ultimately be found guilty of killing her boyfriend.
Audience Acclaim for Mia McKenna-Bruce's Performance
Whilst the drama has captivated viewers with its disturbing narrative, fans were unanimous in highlighting Mia's performance as the show's emotional core. Social media erupted with acclaim following the broadcast of episode two.
One impressed viewer commented: "Great series. The lead actress is brilliant."
Another enthused: "Mia McKenna-Bruce's performance in this is captivating. 10/10. No notes."
A third declared: "Mia McKenna-Bruce is phenomenal in #TheLady. Absolutely outstanding performance.", reports the Express.
Deep Dive into Jane Andrews' Downfall
Monday evening's instalment delved further into Jane Andrews' downfall, tracing the devastating sequence of events that unfolded after her departure from royal employment and propelled her towards a perilous trajectory.
Audiences witnessed Jane's difficulties adapting following her dismissal, as her perception of status and self rapidly disintegrated. Stripped of the security palace life provided, she descended into emotional and financial turmoil, desperately clinging to notions of a more prestigious existence whilst circumstances deteriorated around her.
Jane also finds herself caught up in a new romantic entanglement after meeting suave entrepreneur Luis Castillo. This follows a Greek getaway where Jane endured a devastating public break up that left her emotionally stranded and humiliated.
Upon her return, viewers were then introduced to Tommy Cressman, the affluent business figure who would become pivotal to her narrative.
Controversial Timing and Natalie Dormer's Stance
Social media users had previously expressed unease about the programme's debut, with one describing it as: "Quite possibly, the worst-timed launch of a TV series, ever," considering the heightened focus on the Royal Family following Prince Andrew's arrest and continuing public discourse surrounding his historical associations with Jeffrey Epstein - links that also extend to Sarah Ferguson's social sphere.
The scheduling has created such awkwardness that Natalie Dormer, cast as the Duchess in the production, has completely dissociated herself from the project and refused any promotional activities.
In conversation with Variety last year, the performer outlined her stance in remarkably candid language. She stated: "When I agreed to take the role in The Lady, I knew portraying the script's Sarah Ferguson would require nuance. People are layered, their journeys are full of highs and lows, and as an actor, my job is to lean into those elements and bring them to life with honesty and empathy."
"Since completing the project, new information has come to light that makes it impossible for me to reconcile my values with Sarah Ferguson's behavior, which I believe is inexcusable. For that reason, I will not be taking part in the promotion of the project."
"In keeping with my commitment to the wellbeing of children, I have donated my entire salary from this project to the National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC) and the Centre of Expertise on Child Sexual Abuse (hosted by Barnardo's)."
The Lady is available on ITV1 and ITVX.
