Watch Edward and Mrs Simpson

Edward and Mrs Simpson is a British television drama series that aired on ITV in 1978. The show is based on the events surrounding the relationship between King Edward VIII and American divorcee Wallis Simpson, which ultimately led to Edward's abdication from the throne in 1936.

The show follows the story of Edward and Wallis, played by Edward Fox and Cynthia Harris respectively, as they fall in love and navigate the challenges of their taboo relationship in the highly scrutinized British royal family. The series does an excellent job of portraying the complicated and nuanced nature of their relationship, exploring the emotional turmoil that both characters face as they try to balance their love for each other with their sense of duty and loyalty to the British monarchy.

The cast of Edward and Mrs Simpson includes a number of talented actors, each of whom delivers a powerful performance. Nigel Hawthorne plays Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin, who is tasked with overseeing the crisis surrounding Edward's abdication, and brings a level of gravitas and depth to the role that makes him a standout in the series. Andrew Ray and Wensley Pithey play the brothers David and Bertie, who would ultimately become King George VI, and give compelling performances as they struggle with their own feelings about their older brother's decision to give up the throne.

Peggy Ashcroft and David Waller play Queen Mary and King George V, respectively, and bring an air of grandeur and regality to the series that help to ground the story in a sense of historical authenticity. John Shrapnel, Charles Keating, and Patricia Hodge also deliver excellent performances as various members of the royal household, each of whom has their own opinions and perspectives on the events unfolding around them.

Cherie Lunghi plays Thelma Furness, Wallis's close friend and confidante, and brings a sense of warmth and empathy to the role that helps to counterbalance the more negative portrayals of Wallis that are often found in historical accounts. Ed Devereaux, Gerald Sim, Hugh Fraser, John Kidd, Richard Waring, Terence Rigby, and Tony Church also turn in strong performances in their respective roles, rounding out a talented and versatile ensemble cast.

One of the strengths of Edward and Mrs Simpson is its attention to historical detail, with the series accurately portraying the costumes, settings, and landscapes of the time period in which the story takes place. The show also does an excellent job of exploring the psychological and emotional motivations behind the decisions made by the characters, giving viewers a deeper understanding of the complex and often conflicting interests at play.

Overall, Edward and Mrs Simpson is a compelling and well-crafted television drama that offers a nuanced and insightful look into one of the most controversial and fascinating events in British history. With its talented cast, attention to detail, and engaging storytelling, the series is sure to captivate viewers and leave a lasting impression.

Edward and Mrs Simpson is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (7 episodes). The series first aired on November 8, 1978.