Vera’s Brenda Blethyn transforms into iconic character in first glimpse at ’70s-set British drama reboot

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In the initial photographs, actress Brenda Blethyn as Vera can be seen in the new take on the Channel 4 show titled “A Woman of Substance.

In 1984, a television series was created, drawing inspiration from the 1979 novel with the same title. This series tells the captivating tale of Emma Harte, a housemaid from Yorkshire who eventually ascends corporate ranks and establishes a thriving department store dynasty.

In the main character position, Blethyn is featured, with Jessica Reynolds cast as her youthful counterpart. Previously, roles similar to these were portrayed by Deborah Kerr and Jenny Seagrove in a 1984 Emmy-nominated adaptation for Channel 4.

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Fresh footage captures Blethyn acting as Harte on location, sporting a lengthy beige overcoat, a decorative scarf, shades, and a waterproof hat. For this part, her hairstyle has been adapted to suit a period-piece production.

Regarding my part, Blethyn expressed: “It’s a delight to embrace this legendary role, following in the footsteps of the magnificent Deborah Kerr.

As a devoted admirer of author Barbara Taylor Bradford, the chance to portray the strong-willed Emma Harte is one I wouldn’t want to miss.

For me, it would be a dream come true to join the cast of “A Woman of Substance” and take on the role that Emma plays. Reynolds expressed this sentiment.

I’m thrilled about the exceptional team and actors involved, and can’t wait to translate the captivating scripts from this remarkable literary work into a visual spectacle on screen.

In addition to the main cast, we have Emmett J Scanlan from MobLand as Adam Fairley, Lydia Leonard from Gentleman Jack playing Olivia Wainwright, Sophie Bould from Call the Midwife taking on Elizabeth Harte, and Leanne Best and Will Mellor from Line of Duty as Adele Fairley and Jack Harte. Lenny Rush, known for Doctor Who, is also part of this production, along with Ewan Horrocks, Harry Cadby, Niall Wright, Robert Wilfort, Toby Regbo, Hiftu Quasem, and Georgina Sadler.

The eight-part series was penned by The Buccaneers writers Katherine Jakeways and Roanne Bardsley.

Revealingly, Channel 4’s drama commissioning editor, Rebecca Holdsworth, stated that the impressive acting lineup we have secured is a clear demonstration of the outstanding writing skills shown by Katherine and Roanne in their scripts.

We’re thrilled to share a vibrant, daring take on a classic novel with you all on Channel 4.

A Woman of Substance does not yet have a release date.

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2025-06-03 14:51