Hard Times
Series Overview
Hard Times is a four-part British television drama miniseries based on Charles Dickens' 1854 novel of the same name, a survey of English society and a satirisation of 19th century social and economic conditions. Wealthy, retired Coketown merchant Thomas Gradgrind devotes his life to a philosophy of rationalism, self-interest, and fact. He raises his eldest children, Louisa and Tom, according to this philosophy and never allows them to engage in fanciful or imaginative pursuits.
Broadcast Schedule & Network Information
Airing status, episode counts, upcoming schedule, and network syndication.
1 Season • 4 Episodes
53 min per episode
1977 – 1977
Premiered: Tue, Oct 25, 1977
Latest Aired Episode
Season 1, Episode 4: “Episode 4”
Louisa's breakdown forces her father to reevaluate his worldview. From love for Louisa, Sissy delivers Harthouse an ultimatum. From rage, Bounderby delivers a different ultimatum to Louisa and Gradgrind. The town's search for Blackpool ends in tragedy. When the circus returns to Coketown, it is the setting wherein truth can finally emerge and Gradgrind can find hard-won wisdom.
Seasons & Episodes Breakdown
Cast & Creators
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Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Arthur Hopcraft
Charles Dickens, Arthur Hopcraft
Malcolm Arnold
Jac Venza, Peter Eckersley, Ron Maxwell
Department Leadership Roster
Jac Venza
Producer
Peter Eckersley
Producer
Malcolm Arnold
Original Music Composer
Arthur Hopcraft
Writer
Ron Maxwell
Producer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Hard Times.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hard Times
Key facts, seasons breakdown, and credits for search engines and AI assistants.
What is Hard Times about?
Hard Times is a four-part British television drama miniseries based on Charles Dickens' 1854 novel of the same name, a survey of English society and a satirisation of 19th century social and economic conditions. Wealthy, retired Coketown merchant Thomas Gradgrind devotes his life to a philosophy of rationalism, self-interest, and fact. He raises his eldest children, Louisa and Tom, according to this philosophy and never allows them to engage in fanciful or imaginative pursuits.
How many seasons does Hard Times have?
Hard Times comprises 1 season available to explore.
Who stars in Hard Times?
Key cast members in Hard Times include Patrick Allen, Timothy West, Jacqueline Tong, Richard Wren, Rosalie Crutchley.
Who created or directed Hard Times?
Hard Times was developed and directed by Arthur Hopcraft.