Sky 1, 2011, 6 episodes
Based on the novel by Martina Cole, this gritty drama, set in the sleazy world of 60s and 70s London, focuses on the doomed romance of East London kids Cathy (Joanna Vanderham) and Eamonn (Jack O’Connell), who, although unrelated by blood and having grown up as brother and sister, embark on a secret relationship.
The couple are torn apart when Cathy is sent into care, but she manages to escape and finds her way onto the streets of Soho. Befriended by colourful transvestite Desrae (Alan Cumming), Cathy grows up in the heart of London’s underworld, while Eamonn is drawn into a life of crime and ultimately flees to New York. When the pair are finally drawn back together their future is far from safe.
Principal Cast:
Cathy Connor: JOANNA VANDERHAM; Eamonn Doherty: JACK O’CONNELL; Desrae: ALAN CUMMING; Danny Dixon: KEITH ALLEN; Joey Pasqualino: KEN STOTT; Richard Gates: BURN GORMAN; Madge: KIERSTON WAREING; Eamonn Doherty Snr: MARK WOMACK; Tommy Pasqualino: MAX IRONS.
Awards:
Nominee: International Emmy Best Actress – Joanna Vanderham
Nominee: Rose D’Or – Best Series
Reviews:
‘A real winner. With world-class acting talent, this six-part series is simply unmissable.’ – The Sun
‘ A blisteringly good new crime series which rivals everything the Yanks have sold us over on Sky Atlantic. One of the best-acted dramas of the year.’ – Scottish Daily Record
‘Eye-catching cast, gritty set-up, violent edge.’ – The Times
‘Brilliant, if brutal, drama.’ – Daily Star
‘Great casting and a gripping yarn’ – The People