A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story
A 1950s true crime drama about Ruth Ellis, the last woman in Britain to be hanged. This startling story reveals hidden truths about Ruth's murder of her lover, the legal case surrounding it and those who were also complicit.
Overview
A 1950s true crime drama about Ruth Ellis, the last woman in Britain to be hanged. This startling story reveals hidden truths about Ruth's murder of her lover, the legal case surrounding it and those who were also complicit.
Kate Bartlett
Creator / EP
Angie Daniell
Producer
Episodes
1. Episode 1
Ruth Ellis is arrested for killing her lover, David, with a gun in her hand. While the police see an open-and-shut case, her solicitor, John Bickford, suspects there’s more to the story.
2. Episode 2
At the Old Bailey, Ruth faces judgment shaped by British class and legal biases. Bickford fears she’s withholding vital details that could save her. Outside the courtroom, we uncover her sacrifices for David and a toxic love triangle.
3. Episode 3
Found guilty and sentenced to hang, Ruth reflects on her relationship, lost dreams, and pregnancy, as her lawyer pressures the Home Office for a reprieve. Desperate and reliant on Desmond for her son, Ruth faces the weight of her looming fate.
Cast & Crew
Lucy Boynton
Ruth Ellis
Toby Jones
John Bickford
Laurie Davidson
David Blakely
Mark Stanley
Desmond Cussen
Arthur Darvill
Victor Mishcon
Bessie Carter
Carole Findlater
