A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story air date confirmed for real-life drama

The four-episode series, titled “A Fine Day for a Hanging: The Real Ruth Ellis Story,” is a dramatization by Kelly Jones based on Carol Ann Lee’s biography. It will delve into the circumstances that ultimately led Ruth Ellis to shoot and kill her abusive boyfriend, race driver David Blakely.

The story is predominantly set in 1955 and portrays her glamorous life as a nightclub manageress in London, before the event took place. It also delves into her intense legal battle for clemency that followed, culminating in her execution at Holloway Prison when she was only 28 years old.

I’m thrilled to be part of the ensemble for this new series, alongside some exceptionally talented individuals! Among them are Toby Jones from Mr. Bates vs The Post Office, Arthur Darvill who graced our screens in Doctor Who, Mark Stanley from Happy Valley, and many others. Laurie Davidson (Mary & George), Joe Armstrong (Fool Me Once), Juliet Stevenson (Wolf), Toby Stephens (Lost in Space), and Amanda Drew (The Gold) are also joining us. Can’t wait to work with this incredible group!

In this adaptation, Jones portrays John Bickford, Ruth’s lawyer, who becomes deeply involved in her case. He gradually uncovers the extent of the abuse inflicted by David Blakely (Davidson). Meanwhile, Stanley assumes the role of Desmond Cussen, a long-term admirer and occasional lover of Ruth, who finds himself entangled in her complex love triangle with Blakely.

When the series was initially unveiled in 2023, Boynton stated: “Ruth Ellis’s tale is incredibly captivating. It has always stirred strong feelings, and with Kelly’s skillful writing, I can’t wait to offer a fresh viewpoint, appealing not only to those already familiar with her role in British history but also to those who may be unaware of it.