The Downton Abbey star looks completely different in the first look at Channel 4’s historical drama

Channel 4 has shared a first look at its new 80s drama. Brian and Margaret – and it looks gripping.

With Harriet Walter (Succession, Downton Abbey) and Steve Coogan (The Reckoning, Philomena), the two-part series profiles the final television interview of former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and journalist Brian Walden and asks “whether the slow death of full-length political television interviews endangers modern democracy.”

While Harriet plays the formidable Iron Lady, Steve takes on the role of the “dreaded inquisitor” Brian, a BAFTA award-winning journalist and former Labor MP best known for presenting ITV’s political program. weekend world. Meanwhile Oscar nominee and BAFTA winner Stephen Frears (A Very English Scandal, Florence Foster Jenkins, Philomena) is at the top as director.

In one photo, Harriet is pictured in a dark blue ensemble and sporting Margaret’s signature quiff, while Steve wears a dark suit.

In another snap, Harriet sits at a desk in a dimly lit room in front of a wall that says “Strong and Free” and a poster that says “Vote for Margaret Thatcher.”

The series was written by Sherwood And quiz Author James Graham and based on the book by political editor and TV producer Rob Burley, Why is this lying bastard lying to me?: In search of the truth in political television.

© Channel 4 / Matt Frost

The official synopsis reads: “1989. When Brian and Margaret sat down for their final television interview, little did they know they were about to embark on one of the most famous political exchanges of all time. The 45-minute showdown became a national topic of conversation and triggered a series of events that ended with Margaret’s resignation. After that they never spoke to each other again…”

While a release date has not yet been announced, the two-parter will appear on Channel 4 next year.

© Channel 4 / Matt Frost

When the show was first announced in June, Harriet said of her role: “I have to travel a long way to reach Maggie Thatcher, but with James’ brilliant script, Stephen Frears as my guide and Steve Coogan as my accompaniment.” I have the dream team to help me achieve it.”

Steve added: “It’s great to tell a story from the time of the sorely missed forensic interview – two giants of their time fighting each other to determine the future of Britain. Starring alongside Harriet Walter with a script by James Graham and directed by Stephen Frears is a challenge of the best kind!”

© Channel 4 / Matt Frost

Meanwhile, James teased the series as an “epic series full of love and betrayal.” “I think audiences will be surprised by a lot of it. I know it was me,” he said.