Watch Sharpe

Sharpe is a British historical TV series that aired on ITV from 1993 to 2008. The show is based on the historic fiction novels written by Bernard Cornwell, which follow the career of Richard Sharpe, a British soldier in the Napoleonic Wars. Sharpe, played by Sean Bean, is a complex character who begins the series as a lowly private in the British army. However, he proves himself to be a brave and talented soldier and is soon promoted to the rank of sergeant. Throughout the series, Sharpe fights in many of the major battles of the Napoleonic Wars, including Waterloo, Talavera, and Trafalgar.

The show also features a cast of memorable supporting characters, including Sharpe's loyal friend Sergeant Patrick Harper, played by Daragh O'Malley, and the strict but fair Colonel Sir Henry Simmerson, played by Hugh Fraser. Assumpta Serna also stars in multiple episodes as Teresa Moreno, a Spanish guerrilla leader who becomes a love interest for Sharpe.

One of the unique aspects of Sharpe is the way it portrays both the British and their enemies, such as the French, Spanish, and Portuguese. The show doesn't shy away from depicting the brutality and horror of war, but it also highlights the human side of the conflict. The characters on both sides of the war are given depth and complexity, and the show explores the ways in which the events of the war affect the soldiers and civilians caught up in it.

At its heart, Sharpe is an action-packed adventure series that combines historical accuracy with thrilling storytelling. Each episode is a standalone story, but together they form a cohesive narrative of Sharpe's remarkable career in the British army. The series is notable for its impressive battle sequences, which are expertly choreographed and filmed, showcasing the chaos and intensity of war.

In addition to its exciting action and authentic historical setting, Sharpe also features strong writing and performances. Sean Bean is perfectly cast as the brooding, complex hero Sharpe, and he brings a quiet intensity to the role. O'Malley is also a standout as Harper, providing comic relief and emotional depth in equal measure.

Overall, Sharpe is a must-watch for fans of historical fiction, action, and adventure. With its engaging characters, thrilling action, and nuanced storytelling, it's a series that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.

Sharpe is a series that ran for 7 seasons (18 episodes) between May 12, 1993 and on ITV