Lytton's Diary

Watch Lytton's Diary

  • 1985
  • 2 Seasons
  • 6.9  (57)

Lytton's Diary is a British drama series that aired on ITV from September 1985 to March 1986. The show revolves around a London-based publisher, Lytton (played by Peter Bowles), as he navigates the often cutthroat world of the publishing industry. Over the course of the series, Lytton must contend with various challenges and obstacles, both personal and professional. He must balance his work with his complicated personal life, which includes a strained relationship with his ex-wife and his tumultuous romantic entanglement with his assistant, Georgina (played by Holly De Jong).

At the same time, Lytton must navigate the tricky political and social landscape of the publishing world. He must deal with difficult authors and temperamental editors, while also trying to maintain the integrity of his own publishing house. Along the way, he faces a number of ethical dilemmas and difficult decisions that test his character and his convictions.

The show is set against the backdrop of 1980s London, with its vibrant culture, bustling streets, and ever-changing social landscape. It offers a window into the world of literature and publishing, as well as the inner workings of one man's mind and heart as he tries to make his way in a world that is sometimes unforgiving and always challenging.

The series features a talented cast, including Peter Bowles as the charismatic and charming Lytton, who is both flawed and endearing in equal measure. Holly De Jong shines as Georgina, Lytton's assistant and confidante, bringing both depth and nuance to her portrayal of a woman torn between her loyalty to Lytton and her own desires.

The show explores a range of themes and topics, from love and betrayal to loyalty and ambition. It also delves into the often murky world of the publishing industry, shedding light on the power dynamics at play and the challenges faced by those who pursue their passion for words and ideas.

Although the show only lasted for one season, it remains a memorable and engaging portrayal of life in 1980s London. With its compelling characters, complex plot twists, and nuanced exploration of the human experience, Lytton's Diary is a must-see for fans of British drama and literature alike.

Lytton's Diary
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Seasons
What a Wonderful World
6. What a Wonderful World
February 12, 1986
An international beauty competition offers Lytton a little in the way of a story, until sabotage, corruption, and perhaps even murder enter the fray. Back at the Daily News offices, the owner throws his weight around, determined to win a battle with the printers' union.
National Hero
5. National Hero
February 5, 1986
The new editor hires a trendy young reporter for the diary, but Lytton's own interests are stuck firmly in the past--on a revered war hero with skeletons in his closet. Meanwhile, a professional rivalry gets personal with Lytton's competitor at the Post.
The Miracle Man
4. The Miracle Man
January 29, 1986
It seems like everyone's trying to tell Lytton what to do. His publisher has all kinds of fixes for his first draft, and his young new editor wants him to cover more pop stars in his column. Lytton prefers to focus on a faith-healer evangelist instead.
The Ancien Regime
3. The Ancien Regime
January 22, 1986
The owner of the Daily News makes Lytton an offer he can't refuse--or can he? While Lytton deliberates, he continues to pursue his hottest story: the link between a notorious French actress and a murderous Central American dictator.
Rules of Engagement
2. Rules of Engagement
January 15, 1986
Lytton puts a new reporter on the trail of a tennis star leaving his wife and kids, while Lytton himself investigates an Old Bailey judge with close ties to a known criminal. However, neither situation is quite what it seems.
The Ends and the Means
1. The Ends and the Means
January 8, 1986
When an old friend's husband commits suicide, Lytton wonders why the successful government official would have killed himself. He focuses on an elegant mystery woman who attends the funeral, but the widow asks him to call off his inquiry.
Description
  • Premiere Date
    January 9, 1985
  • IMDB Rating
    6.9  (57)