The Hardacres star breaks down transformation for rags-to-riches drama

The Hardacres star breaks down transformation for rags-to-riches drama

As an avid fan of period dramas, I am absolutely thrilled about the upcoming Channel 5 series, The Hardacres. The rags-to-riches tale of the Hardacre family, based on CL Skelton’s novels, promises to be a captivating journey through the harsh realities and triumphs of working-class life in Yorkshire during the 1890s.


On Channel 5, there’s an upcoming period drama titled “The Hardacres.” This series narrates the inspiring story of a humble working-class family from Yorkshire, as they rise from poverty to prosperity.

This six-episode series delves into a story inspired by the works of CL Skelton, with Claire Cooper and Liam McMahon portraying the main characters Mary and Sam Hardacre, who are a married couple. Additionally, Julie Graham plays the role of Mary’s mother in this production.

Throughout the series, as it delves into a story of going from poverty to wealth, there’s a noticeable transformation in the characters’ wardrobes. This aspect has been particularly appreciated by lead actress Claire Cooper, who commends the work of the costume designer, Allison Byrne.

She described it as possessing such beauty and elegance, and her ability to communicate complex ideas in a way that everyone can understand, thus reflecting our unique perspectives,” she said during the interview.

Alison was a great help during my journey. I don’t mind simple clothing. I found comfort in those worn-out garments. The numerous scars on my hands were visible when they shot some close-ups, so it was clear that Mary has endured a tough life, as her hands bear the marks of handling knives while preparing fish like herring.

The Hardacres star breaks down transformation for rags-to-riches drama

According to the summary, “The Hardacres” series chronicles the lives, romances, and destinies of its titled characters as they transition from a gritty fishing port to a sprawling countryside manor in the 1890s, within the setting of Yorkshire.

Cooper elaborated by saying “Yorkshire folk are hardworking,” and it was crucial for the characters to portray this trait.

She added: “The textures, the colors, the intricacies were all meticulously planned. The same care was shown in the hair and makeup. Every member of the team was exceptional. Yet, what I found captivating was our transformation, moving from a humble beginning to an extravagant era. They managed this transition gracefully, which Mary appreciates too.

I really enjoyed witnessing the gradual unfolding of the process, as it was skillfully paced in the initial episode. This is due to the use of time jumps, which allows us to observe how they began with a little extra funds and enhanced their looks over time.

The brand-new series starts on October 7th, featuring the first episode about Sam Hardacre, a document worker, who experiences a regrettable incident resulting in him and his family losing their jobs. In a desperate search for employment, they risk becoming homeless if they don’t find work soon.

In the summary for episode 1, it states that “Mary, their wife, along with their daughter Liza and mother-in-law Ma, embark on a journey to the grand mansions of Thornton Hall, seeking employment within its opulent interiors.

The Hardacres begins on Channel 5 on Monday 7th October at 9pm.

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2024-10-06 23:33