Belgravia: The Next Chapter is set in 1871 (Image: ITV)
Get ready for high society drama as ITVX welcomes Belgravia: The Next Chapter, set in the year 1871 where the charming Lord Frederick Trenchard encounters the enchanting Clara Dunn. This period piece breathes new life into a younger crowd amongst the opulent London district, historically linked with the upper crust of 19th-century London society.
Scriptwriter Helen Edmundson, with a fervent interest in Victorian literature and notably its heroines, was ecstatic to develop a series featuring a young woman from that era embroiled in an intensely romantic yet challenging relationship. Collaborating closely with Julian Fellowes of Downton Abbey fame, Helen unearthed insights into this slice of history, stating: “1871 offered me a great deal in terms of it being the time of the Paris Commune.”
She reflects on the broad impact, commenting: “So not only was that everything in complete disarray in France, but there were ripples of that coming across the Channel. The industrial revolution was also in full swing, so that offered me some opportunities in terms of Frederick’s business empire. It was a time of very socialist ideas, which I also wanted to pick up on in the series – it was a very exciting time.”
While the narrative doesn’t mimic an exact true story, it embeds itself within an authentic cultural backdrop of the era.
Edward Bluemel plays Doctor Stephen Ellerby (Image: ITV)
Edward Bluemel, who portrays Doctor Stephen Ellerby on the show, lauds Julian Fellowes for his precise depiction of historical events.
The actor highlighted the meticulous production values in Carnival and Julian Fellowes’ works, emphasising the attention to detail: “Just like in other Carnival and Julian Fellowes productions, the thing that sets them apart is the accuracy, and the care that is taken with each scene, the costumes, the set and where we put our hands.”
He went on to describe the disciplined environment on the set: “Everything is so controlled in a way that is very rigid, but a completely different way of performing.”
The star shared insights into the importance of historical accuracy in period dramas, particularly ‘Belgravia’, saying: “With these period dramas – and Belgravia in particular – the protocol has to be accurate, so that when the rules are broken – in the rare moments that they are – it makes it all the more special and interesting to watch.”
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Sophie Winkleman plays the Duchess of Rochester (Image: ITV)
French actress Claude Perron, who plays Marquise D’Etagnac, confessed her initial unfamiliarity with the Paris Commune era but recounted her extensive research for the role. Historical advisor Alastair Bruce proved integral to the cast, with Claude divulging: “I had questions about the etiquette of women at this time and Alastair confirmed that my character would act a little bit different because of her standing in society, and that was fun to play.”
Sophie Winkleman, also known as Lady Frederick Windsor in her portrayal of the Duchess of Rochester, depended heavily on Alastair’s guidance. She expressed her gratitude, stating: “Alastair Bruce has been my mainstay for this whole series – he’s been magnificent.
“I think I’ve asked him questions every single day, from how to you pick up that stem, how do you lay your knife and fork in between eating, everything. I find it’s such a joy and luxury to have someone like that on set every day.”
Belgravia: The Next Chapter is available to watch on ITVX