Lucy Fallon

An underrated period drama based on one of the most influential books of all time is available to watch for free

Viewers shouldn’t miss out on this incredible four-part drama based on a classic novel, as it’s available to watch without spending a penny.

This breathtaking adaptation was originally aired in 2023 on ITV and PBS Masterpiece in the US and has developed a passionate cult following despite not receiving critical fanfare at the time.

Based on the novel by Henry Fielding, Tom Jones brings the seminal 1749 novel to life like never before with an ensemble cast of British legends.

William Tell’s Solly McLeod portrays the titular downtrodden hero, a young man with mysterious parentage who falls in love with his spirited neighbour Sophia Western (played by Sophie Wilde).

Sophie decides to flee her arranged marriage to be with Tom, but the pair are kept apart by a series of increasingly fraught misadventures.

They’re accompanied by some of the most recognisable names from the British screen, including Coronation Street’s Lucy Fallon, Harry Potter’s Shirley Henderson, New Tricks’ Alun Armstrong and Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham.

Many viewers consider the drama an essential watch and it’s still currently available to stream for free on ITVX.

One 10/10 review from an IMDb user declared it “Gorgeous viewing with a top notch cast”.

They continued: “The cast list is like a who’s who of the cream of British talent, topped by two lovely and good looking leads.

“The episodes fair gallops on its way, cutting through the boring exposition and getting quickly to the important stuff, the love story between Tom and Sophia.”

The review continued to particularly praise Waddingham’s performance as Lady Bellaston, declaring “Seriously, put this woman in EVERYTHING”.

“If you get a chance, watch it in one go, it’s perfect lazy weekend viewing,” the reviewer concluded.

Another warned that fans of the book should expect some changes to the narrative, but admitted: “Even though the story is not like really really the one from the book is one pretty entertaining and very fun to watch. The choice of actors was really good and they did a great job.

“I really recommend for you to watch it if you want some light series combined with romance, a bit of jealousy and of course some British scenery.”

And a 9/10 review said: “This is what you want from English costume drama – and more. I really liked it.

“Fans of historical dramas and literary adaptations will find Tom Jones a must-watch, as it stays true to the spirit of the novel while making it accessible and enjoyable for modern audiences.”

In the mood for a cosy period romance with plenty of laughs and scenery-chewing performances from British greats? Look no further.

Tom Jones is available to stream on ITVX.

Coronation Street’s Audrey Roberts, played by Sue Nicholls, recently celebrated a birthday on the soap and fans have been left shocked after realising the actress’ real age

Coronation Street viewers have been left stunned after discovering the actual age of Sue Nicholls, who portrays beloved character Audrey Roberts.

Audrey first appeared on the cobbles back in 1979 as Gail Platt’s mum (Helen Worth), and has since become an absolute favourite amongst fans, featuring in numerous major storylines.

Throughout the decades, audiences have experienced both heartache and happiness alongside Audrey, witnessing her wedding to Alf Roberts (Bryan Mosley) in 1985 and mourning his devastating passing in 1999.

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Fans have also watched Audrey evolve into a great-grandmother to characters such as Bethany Platt (Lucy Fallon), whilst seeing her collaborate with grandson David Platt (Jack P Shepherd) at Audrey’s hair salon.

More recently, she was left heartbroken when daughter Gail departed the cobbles last year following 25 years on the street, embarking on a fresh chapter in France with husband Jesse Chadwick (John Thompson), reports Leicestershire Live.

During this week’s episodes, Audrey marked her 85th birthday with a special meal at The Bistro, surrounded by her family including grandchildren Sarah (Tina O’Brien) and David.

Yet fans have been absolutely flabbergasted upon learning actress Sue’s true age.

On a Corrie Facebook fan page, discussing character Audrey’s recent birthday festivities, one person posted: “Aw, happy 85th birthday Audrey!”.

Another fan responded: “She looks good for her age, Sue who plays her is 81 in real life.” A third viewer exclaimed: “No way!”. Meanwhile, a fourth admiring fan declared: “She’s barely aged.”

Before her time on Corrie, Sue had a hidden singing career and landed her first soap role in the legendary Crossroads.

In 1968, she released a track titled ‘Where Will You Be?’, which climbed to number 17 in the UK Music Charts, and it’s said that she also performed in a cabaret club in Vienna during her younger years.

She became a familiar face on our telly, featuring in ‘The Rise and Fall of Reginald Perrin’ alongside Leonard Rossiter from 1976-1979, and as Nadia Popov in ‘Rentaghost’ from 1981-1984.

Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX