The Mayor of Casterbridge
“The Dennis Potter adaptation of Thomas Hardy's classic tale”
Series Overview
The Mayor of Casterbridge is a 1978 BBC seven-part serial based on the eponymous 1886 book by the British novelist Thomas Hardy. The six-hour drama was written by dramatist Dennis Potter and directed by David Giles, with Alan Bates as the title character. Michael Henchard, an out-of-work hay-trusser, gets drunk at a fair and, for five guineas, sells his wife and child to a sailor. When the horror of his act finally sets in, Henchard swears he will not touch alcohol for twenty-one years. Through hard work and acumen, he becomes rich, respected, and eventually the mayor of Casterbridge. But eighteen years after his fateful oath, his wife and daughter return to Casterbridge, and his fortunes steadily decline.
Broadcast Schedule & Network Information
Airing status, episode counts, upcoming schedule, and network syndication.
1 Season • 7 Episodes
50 min per episode
1978 – 1978
Premiered: Sun, Jan 22, 1978
Dennis PotterLatest Aired Episode
Season 1, Episode 7: “Part Seven”
Lucetta has died, the victim of an evil trick. Henchard's conciliation with Elizabeth is short-lived: when her father comes to claim her Henchard pretends she is dead.
Seasons & Episodes Breakdown
Cast & Creators
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Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Dennis Potter
Dennis Potter, Betty Willingale, Thomas Hardy
Carl Davis
Neil Pittaway
Jonathan Powell
Department Leadership Roster
Jonathan Powell
Producer
Neil Pittaway
Editor
Christine Rawlins
Costume Design
Peter Kindred
Production Design
Dennis Potter
Screenplay
Thomas Hardy
Writer
Carl Davis
Original Music Composer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Mayor of Casterbridge.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Mayor of Casterbridge
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What is The Mayor of Casterbridge about?
The Mayor of Casterbridge is a 1978 BBC seven-part serial based on the eponymous 1886 book by the British novelist Thomas Hardy. The six-hour drama was written by dramatist Dennis Potter and directed by David Giles, with Alan Bates as the title character. Michael Henchard, an out-of-work hay-trusser, gets drunk at a fair and, for five guineas, sells his wife and child to a sailor. When the horror of his act finally sets in, Henchard swears he will not touch alcohol for twenty-one years. Through hard work and acumen, he becomes rich, respected, and eventually the mayor of Casterbridge. But eighteen years after his fateful oath, his wife and daughter return to Casterbridge, and his fortunes steadily decline.
How many seasons does The Mayor of Casterbridge have?
The Mayor of Casterbridge comprises 1 season available to explore.
Who stars in The Mayor of Casterbridge?
Key cast members in The Mayor of Casterbridge include Alan Bates, Janet Maw, Jack Galloway.
Who created or directed The Mayor of Casterbridge?
The Mayor of Casterbridge was developed and directed by Dennis Potter.