Gemma Jones

This 1970s series, with 31 episodes spread across two seasons, offers much for those of us who hark back to the days when TV drama could afford to take a more leisurely approach. The settings for this story of an East End girl's rise to working for 'high society' in various capacities are convincing and the acting mostly very good. Gemma Jones is a bit of an acquired taste but she is probably ideal for the combative Louisa. There is good support from Richard Vernon and others who become part of the hotel in Duke Street. Many of the writing and production team (and some of the cast) were from Upstairs, Downstairs, and the pedigree is clear.… (mere)