During the Victorian Era, women lived by a long list of rules.
The new Masterpiece/PBS series, Miss Scarlet and the Duke, premiered last night. Eliza Scarlet (Kate Phillips) was raised by her widower father, Henry (Kevin Doyle) in what was a unconventional manner for 1882 England. She believes that one day, she will take over the family business. But when he dies suddenly, and in debt, Eliza feels like she has no choice but to pick up where he left off.
But not everyone accepts the idea that Eliza can follow in her father’s footsteps. William Duke (Stuart Martin), her father’s protégé who is now a police detective is not sold on the idea. Following up on a promise he made to Henry years ago to protect Eliza, he tries to convince her to give up her detective work. But Eliza will not be swayed.
If I had to make a list today of the best new television shows of 2021, Miss Scarlet and the Duke would be near the top. Martin and Phillips have an undeniable Hepburn and Tracy like chemistry. I love how strong and single minded Eliza is, and how frustrating it is for William.
Do I recommend it? Absolutely.
Miss Scarlet and the Duke airs on PBS Sunday nights at 8PM.
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