Skip to main contentSkip to footer
harlots 6

Downton Abbey star Jessica Brown Findlay's new period drama Harlot is here: meet the cast 

Are you tuning in to watch Harlots? 

Emmy Griffiths
TV & Film Editor
August 5, 2020
Share this:

Harlots seasons one to three will be premiering on BBC Two on Wednesday evening, and with an all-star cast including the likes of Downton Abbey's Jessica Brown Findlay and Lord of the Rings actress Liv Tyler, we already know it's going to be a spectacular hit with viewers!

READ: Downton Abbey star Lily James' new period drama revealed - get the details

BBC's synopsis for the new period drama reads: "Set against the backdrop of 18th century Georgian London, Harlots is a powerful family drama offering a brand new take on the city’s most valuable commercial activity - sex. Inspired by the stories of real women, the series follows Margaret Wells and her daughters, as she struggles to reconcile her roles as mother and brothel owner." 

WATCH: Harlots trailer for season one is here

The cast is seriously impressive and is led by Fantastic Beasts star Samantha Morton as brothel owner Margaret Wells, while Lesley Manville, who has been cast as Princess Margaret in The Crown for seasons five and six, plays her main rival, Lydia Quigley. Meanwhile, Jessica will play Margaret's eldest daughter, much-coveted courtesan Charlotte.

harlots cast

Lesley stars in the series as Lydia Quigley

Liv Tyler joined the cast in season two, and plays Lady Isabella Fitzwilliam. Eagle-eyed viewers may also spot Fleabag star Hugh Skinner, who will portray aspiring Parliament member Sir George Howard. 

READ: Agatha Christie's Poirot: how does Hercule Poirot die on the show?

harlots hugh skinner

Hugh plays Sir George Howard

Speaking about the cast, BBC Head of Programme Acquisition Sue Deeks said: "Aided by a truly magnificent cast, Harlots brings 18th Century London to life with enormous style, wit, intelligence and humour. BBC viewers will become immersed in the gripping lives of businesswomen Margaret Wells and Lydia Quigley as they make their way in London’s grimy, decadent world.”

Sign up to Off Camera for all the gossip and goings-on from the wonderful world of TV and film

By entering your details, you are agreeing to HELLO! Magazine User Data Protection Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more information, please click here.

More TV and Film

See more