Channel 4 unveils first look at Emma Harte from A Woman of Substance starring Brenda Blethyn and Jessica Reynolds

Based on the multi-million bestselling novel and global phenomenon written by Barbara Taylor Bradford, first look images of the iconic character Emma Harte have been released for A Woman of Substance, a brand-new adaptation of the classic novel. Previously Emmy-nominated and Channel 4’s biggest ever drama when it was made 40 years ago, this new revenge romp feels as searingly relevant today as it did back then.

Coming to Channel 4 next year, the images feature Brenda Blethyn and Jessica Reynolds as the two versions of Emma Harte; a housemaid turned-mogul, daughter, mother, lover, fighter and a 20th century feminist icon who refused to know her ‘place’.

1911. Emma Harte, an impoverished ambitious maid in Yorkshire, England goes on a dizzying journey to become the world’s richest woman, gazing down from a sprawling luxury New York penthouse. A rags-to-riches tale of women through the 20th century, Emma defies the expectations of her society, fearlessly challenging the roles she’s given, smashing glass ceilings, and never, ever deviating from her masterplan: Get to the top. Whatever it takes.

Produced by The Forge Entertainment (National Treasure, The Buccaneers, Marriage), a Banijay UK company, the eight-part series is written by Katherine Jakeways and co-written by Roanne Bardsley. A Woman of Substance will be distributed internationally by Banijay Rights.

A Woman of Substance was commissioned for Channel 4 by Rebecca Holdsworth, Commissioning Editor and Gwawr Lloyd, Acting Head of Drama. Executive producers are

Beth Willis, Joe Innes, George Faber, Katherine Jakeways and The Barbara Taylor Bradford Trust. Roanne Bardsley is co-executive producer, and Charlie Palmer is the producer. John Hardwick directs block one, Samantha Harries for block two and Richard Senior for block three.

Filming took place in Yorkshire and transmission details will be announced in due course.