Season 1
Tess of the D'Urbervilles is a British television mini-series adaptation of Thomas Hardy's book of the same name written by David Nicholls which tells the story of Tess Durbeyfield, a low-born country girl whose family find they have noble connections.
The series aired in the UK on BBC One from 14 September to 5 October, 2008. There are four hour-long episodes in the series.
Tess of the D'Urbervilles premiered in South Africa on DStv's BBC Entertainment channel on Sunday 13 November 2011, at 20h00. New episodes broadcast weekly.
Synopsis
This is a passionate, sensual and very modern version of Thomas Hardy's famous novel, with a cast combining upcoming acting talent with recognisable and much-loved faces.
As the drama opens, the beautiful and innocent Tess Durbeyfield, dressed in white, dances in the May Day celebrations in her village. She catches a glimpse of a handsome stranger, but he ignores her.
Later Tess is driven by family poverty to claim kinship with the wealthy D'Urbervilles and seek a portion of their family fortune. Here she meets a very different man – the manipulative and fraudulent Alec.
Will her very innocence prove to be her downfall?
One year later a changed Tess watches the May dances. Embarking on a new chapter in her life, she leaves her home, finding work as a dairy maid.
Here Tess meets the stranger from the celebrations – Angel Clare. He seems to offer her love and salvation, but Tess must choose whether to reveal her past or remain silent...
A thrilling story of seduction, murder, cruelty and betrayal unfolds.
Whilst unstintingly gorgeous and romantic, this new adaptation is an intense, moving and provocative depiction of the tragically beautiful story.