ITV unveils captivating first look at Lucy Boynton as Ruth Ellis in new true crime drama

Virgin Radio

19 Feb 2024, 16:55

Lucy Boynton takes the spotlight as Ruth Ellis in A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story.

ITV has offered a tantalising glimpse into its upcoming true crime drama, A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story, starring Lucy Boynton as the enigmatic Ruth Ellis.

The series delves into the turbulent life of the last woman to be hanged in the UK, exploring the complex web of love, crime, and societal judgment.

The unveiled image transports viewers to 1955, where Lucy Boynton graces the screen as Ruth Ellis, a 28-year-old club owner entangled in a toxic romance with racing driver David Blakely.

The photograph captures Boynton's transformation, clad in a coral dress with a radiant smile, epitomising the character's highs and lows.

"On trial for his murder, Ruth was condemned to hang by a system which judged her for far more than her crime," reads the tantalising synopsis, promising a narrative that delves beyond the courtroom drama.

A Cruel Love boasts an impressive cast, including Toby Jones, Laurie Davidson, and Mark Stanley.

Executive produced by Silverprint Pictures, known for hits like Vera and Shetland, the drama is based on Carol Ann Lee's biography, A Fine Day for a Hanging: The Real Ruth Ellis Story, with Kelly Jones, the creative force behind Des and Baptiste, adapting the narrative for television.

Kate Bartlett, executive producer for Silverprint Pictures, commends Boynton's portrayal, stating: "Lucy Boynton is absolutely mesmerising as Ruth Ellis, pictured here at the height of her success as London's youngest club manager."

The production aims to capture the essence of Ruth's life, love, and the tragic consequences of an intoxicating love triangle.

Previously speaking on taking on such a layered real-life role, Boynton said she was hoping to bring 'a new perspective' on the controversial case.

"Ruth Ellis' story is a fascinating one," the Bohemian Rhapsody star said last year.

"Both she and this complex case have always evoked a strong reaction, and with Kelly's insightful scripts I'm looking forward to bringing a new perspective to both familiar audiences as well as those who are unaware of her mark on British history."

While the release date for A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story remains shrouded in mystery, the buzz surrounding Lucy Boynton's transformation and the riveting narrative promises an engaging exploration of a chapter in British history that still reverberates today.

Stay tuned for a journey into the captivating world of Ruth Ellis, where love and crime intersect in a gripping tale yet to unfold on ITV.

A release date for A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story is yet to be announced.