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Gracie! was a six-part television series created by BBC Scotland and broadcast on BBC Two in 2009. It was a musical drama set in the 1930s and followed the fictional character of Gracie Fields, a Lancashire-born singer and actress who rose to fame during the interwar years in Britain.

Jane Horrocks, the acclaimed actress known for her performances in Absolutely Fabulous and Little Voice, played Gracie Fields in the series. Her portrayal of the singer was praised for capturing the vivaciousness and charisma that made Fields such a beloved performer. Tom Hollander (Pride and Prejudice, The Night Manager) played Archie Pitt, Fields' real-life husband and manager, who steered her career through the ups and downs of show business.

The first episode of Gracie! introduced viewers to a young Gracie living in Rochdale, where she worked in local mills and dreamed of a career on the stage. Her talent for singing and comedy began to be noticed, and she soon secured a gig at a local theatre. From there, her star continued to rise as she played in venues across the country and charmed radio audiences with her wit and charm.

One of the key themes of the show was the tension between Gracie's working-class roots and her rapid ascent to celebrity. Her fame brought her into contact with wealthy and powerful people, but she never lost touch with her fans or her humble beginnings. This dynamic was explored through Gracie's relationships with her husband, Archie, and her friends and family.

Throughout the series, Gracie faced a range of challenges – from jealous rivals trying to sabotage her career to the outbreak of World War II – but she always remained resilient and optimistic. Her songs, which were woven into the narrative of the show, showcased her charm and humour, as well as her ability to connect with audiences.

In addition to Horrocks and Hollander, the show featured a talented ensemble cast, including Annette Crosbie, John Bowe, and Ellie Haddington. The sets and costumes were also praised for their attention to detail, capturing the glamour and nostalgia of the 1930s.

Gracie! was praised by critics for its entertaining performances, strong writing, and expertly crafted musical numbers. It depicted a bygone era of show business with grace and affection, while also exploring the social and cultural changes that were transforming Britain during the interwar years.

For fans of Horrocks and Hollander, Gracie! was a must-see series that allowed them to show off their formidable talents. For those who were unfamiliar with Gracie Fields and the music of the 1930s, it was an engaging and nostalgic introduction to a time when entertainers were larger-than-life personalities who captivated audiences with their charm and charisma.

Overall, Gracie! was a charming and engaging series that kept viewers entertained with its mix of drama, music, and comedy. Its talented cast, strong writing, and attention to historical detail made it a standout period drama that continues to be fondly remembered by viewers today.

Gracie! is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between November 23, 2009 and on BBC