Edward the King

Edward the King is a compelling historical drama series produced by ITV in 1975, drawing viewers into the captivating life and reign of the British Monarch, King Edward VII. Spanning thirteen episodes, the series takes a deep dive into the complex life of the British ruler, his personal challenges, political episodes, and his significant relationships that shaped his reign. At the centre of this drama series is veteran actor Timothy West, who brilliantly portrays the complex figure of Edward VII from the perspective of both a human and a ruler.

The series commences with the early years of Edward's life, focusing on his challenging upbringing, and the tribulations he faced under the watchful eye of his parents, Queen Victoria (played by Annette Crosbie) and Prince Albert (portrayed by Robert Hardy). This time of his life is laden with high expectations and the burden of royal duties, a narrative brought to life with exceptional veracity by the cast.

West's towering portrayal of Edward VII's life from childhood to his death, exemplifies the transformation he undergoes, from the playful “Bertie”, the Prince of Wales into the incredible monarch, Edward the King. He balances the royal persona with the flawed human being underneath the crown, highlighting Edward's lavish lifestyle, his amiable personality and political tact. Furthermore, his relationships with an array of women - from his wife, Princess Alexandra played by Helen Ryan, to various high-profile mistresses - add to the allure of his character.

Aside from Timothy West, the series boasts an epic ensemble cast. Annette Crosbie as Queen Victoria offers profound nuance and pathos, epitomising the domineering, yet mournfully isolated matriarch. Robert Hardy as the idealistic and earnest, Prince Albert contributes an earnest performance while Helen Ryan's performance as the loving but neglected wife of Edward, Alexandra, is emotionally gripping.

The role of Alice Keppel, Edward's last mistress and confidante, is masterfully portrayed by Deborah Grant. Christopher Neame impresses as Edward's eldest son, Duke of Clarence and Jane Lapotaire brings undeniable charisma to her role as his other long-standing mistress, actress Lillie Langtry. A younger Charles Dance, probably best known for his later role in Game of Thrones, has a minor part to play in the series as Edward's personal secretary. This exemplifies the depth of talent in every actor in the myriad of roles embodied in the show.

Scripted by David Butler and dramatized by John Elliot, the series does a commendable job at amalgamating detailed historical research with the compelling arcs of storytelling, resulting in a multi-dimensional characterisation of Edward VII. The script cleverly navigates the era’s political turmoil and international intrigues, as well as the intimate trajectory of Edward's personal life.

Beyond the intricate character portrayals, the lavish costume and set design deserve special mention. The period-evocative sets do a remarkable job of transporting viewers back to the era of Edwardian England, further enriched by the luxurious and detailed costumes.

Moreover, the series masterfully contrasts Edward's hostile childhood, filled with a pressure-packed relationship with his parents, with his later life filled with lavish parties, indulgences, loving mistresses and a suppressed longing for his mother’s affection. It is this interplay of pathos and pomp, power and pretence, that makes Edward the King a captivating watch.

In summary, Edward the King is a monumental ITV historical drama that skillfully brings to life the complexities of King Edward VII's personality and reign. Richly textured with periodic details, a stellar cast, and an engaging storyline, the series paints a vibrant portrait of the man behind the monarchy. For history devotees or aficionados of royal dramas, this series offers a historically accurate and intriguing glimpse into the life of one of Britain's most fascinating monarchs.