EastEnders Star Cast as Brenda Blethyn’s Daughter in New Drama Remake
Channel 4 is set to release a new adaptation of the beloved novel *A Woman of Substance*. This eight-part series features a star-studded cast, including Brenda Blethyn, known for her role in *Vera*, and Jo Joyner, a former cast member from *EastEnders*. The show is based on Barbara Taylor Bradford’s novel, which tells the compelling story of Emma Harte, a woman who rises from hardship to immense wealth.
Star-Studded Cast of *A Woman of Substance*
Brenda Blethyn takes on the lead role of Emma Harte, who embarks on a dramatic “rags to riches” journey. She shares this pivotal role with Jessica Reynolds, who portrays the younger version of Emma. Notably, this adaptation resonates with the 1985 version that featured Deborah Kerr and Jenny Seagrove.
Jo Joyner’s Role
- Character: Elizabeth Harte Ainsley
- Background: Elizabeth is the daughter of Emma Harte.
- Plot Twist: She betrays her mother, leading to significant conflict.
The series will chronicle Emma’s transformation from a struggling maid in 1911 to becoming the wealthiest woman in the world. The plot highlights her ambition and determination to overcome societal barriers.
Additional Cast Members
*A Woman of Substance* also features a diverse cast, including:
- Emmett J. Scanlan (*Mobland*)
- Lydia Leonard (*Wolf Hall: The Mirror and The Light*)
- Will Mellor (*Mr Bates vs the Post Office*)
- Lenny Rush (*Am I Being Unreasonable?*)
- Robert Wilfort (*Gavin & Stacey*)
- Leanne Best (*This City Is Ours*)
- Ewan Horrocks (*The Last Kingdom*)
- Harry Cadby (*In Flight*)
- Toby Regbo (*A Discovery of Witches*)
- Hiftu Quasem (*The Witcher*)
- Georgina Sadler (*Boarders*)
- Niall Wright (*Slow Horses*)
Production Team
This adaptation is crafted by a talented team that includes screenwriters Katherine Jakeways and Roanne Bardsley. Director John Hardwick helmed the initial filming, aiming to bring a fresh perspective to this classic narrative. Rebecca Holdsworth, Channel 4’s commissioning editor, expressed excitement over the high-caliber cast, attributing it to the quality of the scripts.
Upcoming Release
*A Woman of Substance* is set to premiere soon on Channel 4. Viewers can look forward to an engaging storyline along with strong performances from its cast. Fans of the novel and drama series alike should keep an eye on this adaptation.
Stay tuned for further updates as more details about the release date become available.
