Widowed and penniless, Riah Millican flouts convention when she allows her employer, the reclusive Percival Miller, to educate her children beyond their class. It’s an act of kindness which has tragic consequences for the Millican family…
Filmed for British television in 1991, Black Velvet Gown is a two-part adaptation of Catherine Cookson’s novel. The story begins in 1834; Riah Millican (Janet McTeer), left penniless by her husband’s death, is evicted from her home along with her children. She takes a job as housekeeper for Percival Miller (Bob Peck), the reclusive master of Gulmington Mansion. Soon Riah is ruling the roost, as it were, and is in a position to hire and fire servants on her own. Part Two involves the arrival of illiterate serving girl Biddy (Geraldine Somerville), and the ensuing consequences. Black Velvet Gown was telecast in the US in 1993 on PBS’ Masterpiece Theatre. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi
One of England’s most widely read authors, Dame Catherine Cookson penned more than ninety historical novels during her celebrated career. Set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many of her masterpieces have been brought to life in mini-series productions boasting lavish costumes and stunning on-location photography of Northeast England.
Shown on PBS Masterpiece Theatre.
Starring Jean Anderson, Aran Bell, Christopher Benjamin, Caspar Berry, Donald Bisset.