BBC’s Wolf Hall drama attracted over four million viewers in its first week, surpassing the viewership of popular soaps like EastEnders and Emmerdale. This strong debut highlights the show’s appeal, which continues to resonate with audiences, even outpacing long-standing favorites in the competitive television landscape.
The series Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light, featuring Damian Lewis, Kate Phillips, and Sir Mark Rylance, has outperformed all episodes of EastEnders and Emmerdale during the same time period, with a ranking of number 16 in television ratings. In comparison, the top-rated episode of Emmerdale ranks 18th, and EastEnders ranks 24th. This adaptation of the late Dame Hilary Mantel’s novel, detailing the final years of Thomas Cromwell’s life, resonates with classic soap elements despite the predictability of historical events portrayed.
In Wolf Hall, King Henry VIII represents the abusive patriarch of a troubled family, while Cromwell emerges as a compelling villain. The series, which began with the execution of Anne Boleyn, delves into political intrigue, illicit affairs, and violence. Fans praise its storytelling and production quality, particularly Mark Rylance’s captivating performance. Lord Michael Dobbs, known for his political intrigue in House of Cards, lauds the show, describing its detailed portrayal of kings, cardinals, and historical drama as “what’s not to love?”
He further remarked that the series effectively illustrates the inherent risks of power, highlighting that as one ascends, the eventual fall is often more significant. Acknowledging the inevitable conclusion, he expressed anticipation for witnessing the outcome, emphasizing the satisfaction in observing the downfall.
