Watch Fanny by Gaslight

Fanny by Gaslight is a six-part BBC drama miniseries that originally aired in 1981. The show is based on a novel of the same title by Michael Sadleir, which was first published in 1940. The story is set in the Victorian era of London and follows the life of a young woman called Fanny Hopwood.

Fanny Hopwood is the illegitimate child of a wealthy lawyer named Sir Hector Skerritt and his former mistress, Emma, who was forced to abandon Fanny in a workhouse after Sir Hector refused to acknowledge her. Fanny is raised by a loving but poor family until she is eventually taken in by her father's other illegitimate daughter, Lady Barbara Skerritt. Lady Barbara is a vain and manipulative socialite who enlists Fanny's help in her schemes to gain status and power.

As Fanny grows older, she begins to uncover the truth about her parentage and the circumstances that led to her being abandoned. She vows to seek revenge on Sir Hector and Lady Barbara, but her plans are complicated by her love for the kind-hearted and generous Lord Manderstoke, who is engaged to Lady Barbara.

Throughout the series, Fanny navigates the complicated social hierarchy of Victorian London, encountering both kindness and cruelty from those around her. She is torn between her desire for revenge and her growing love for Lord Manderstoke, who she knows will never be able to fully accept her due to her illegitimate status.

The show is a captivating and well-crafted period drama, full of intricate plot twists, complex characters, and stunning cinematography. The attention to detail in the sets, costumes, and props immerses the viewer in the rich and vivid world of Victorian London.

The performances of the ensemble cast are top-notch, with Cheryl Campbell giving a standout performance as the determined and conflicted Fanny. John Welsh and Sylvia Kay are excellent as Sir Hector and Lady Barbara, respectively, providing a convincing portrayal of their wealthy and socially privileged characters.

Overall, Fanny by Gaslight is a gripping and emotionally charged drama that explores themes of class, privilege, and identity in Victorian London. The show's strong writing, stunning visuals, and excellent performances make it a must-watch for fans of historical drama.

Fanny by Gaslight is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (4 episodes). The series first aired on September 24, 1981.