Watch The Life and Crimes of William Palmer

The Life and Crimes of William Palmer is a television film that was originally broadcast on ITV on January 14, 1998. The film was directed by Alan Dossor and stars Keith Allen in the titular role of William Palmer. The cast also includes Linda Bassett, Ian McNeice, and Jayne Ashbourne, among others.

The film is based on the true story of William Palmer, a doctor who was convicted of murdering several people in the mid-19th century. Palmer was born in 1824 in Staffordshire, England, and trained as a doctor at the University of London. He was popular in his small town and was well-respected as a physician. However, Palmer was also a compulsive gambler and had serious debts. To pay off his debts, he turned to fraud and started forging checks.

Palmer's illegal activities soon caught up with him, and he was forced to move from town to town to avoid detection. In 1849, he settled in Rugeley, where he quickly became embroiled in a scheme with a local bookmaker named George Fletcher. Fletcher had insured his life for a large sum of money, and Palmer convinced him to name him as the beneficiary of the policy.

When Fletcher died suddenly in November 1855, suspicions were raised about Palmer's involvement. An investigation was launched, and it was discovered that Palmer had also been responsible for the deaths of his wife and brother, as well as several other people who had been in his care as a doctor.

The Life and Crimes of William Palmer is a gripping drama that tells the story of Palmer's downfall. Keith Allen is excellent in the lead role, capturing both Palmer's charm and his menace. Linda Bassett is also outstanding as Palmer's long-suffering wife, who is caught up in his web of deceit.

The film is set in the mid-19th century and features beautiful period costumes and settings, which add to its authenticity. The supporting cast is also strong, with Ian McNeice giving a standout performance as the investigating magistrate in charge of the case.

The Life and Crimes of William Palmer is a fascinating exploration of a notorious criminal case from British history. It provides a glimpse into the mind of a compulsive gambler and fraudster who was willing to kill to cover his tracks. The film is tense, dramatic, and sad, and it offers a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and deception. Overall, this film is a must-watch for anyone interested in true crime or historical dramas.

The Life and Crimes of William Palmer is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (2 episodes). The series first aired on March 3, 1998.