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March 12, 2026

A Woman of Substance review

Barbara Taylor Bradford’s 1979 novel became a massive TV hit in the 1980s. Now, Brenda Blethyn has donned a fabulous wig to whisk us back to the age of excess and escapism

A Woman of Substance review

TL;DR

  • A new television adaptation of Barbara Taylor Bradford's novel 'A Woman of Substance' has been released.
  • The series aims to capture the escapism and extravagance of 1980s television.
  • Brenda Blethyn stars as the older Emma Harte, a wealthy businesswoman facing a crisis.
  • The story begins in the late 1970s with Emma dealing with leaked medical records and a plummeting stock price.
  • Flashbacks to 1911 Yorkshire reveal Emma's impoverished beginnings and the complex relationships at the Fairley manor.
  • Key characters in the flashback include Mr. Adam Fairley, his wife Adele, Adele's sister Olivia, Master Gerald, his lover Polly, and Mac O'Neill.
  • Emma's early ambition and skill in dressmaking are highlighted as crucial to her future success.
  • The review compares the series to 'Dallas' and 'Rivals', noting its nostalgic appeal but lack of humor.
  • The adaptation is available on Channel 4.

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