Don't Call Me Nelly

From Sally Wainwright who is known more for darker dramas. This is a hybrid of various genres.

The kernel for Renegade Nell lies in Wainwright's previous show, Gentleman Jack. Based on the true story of landowner Anne Lister, who lived a furtive life as a lesbian.

Nell Jackson (Louisa Harland) is a woman we initially see dressed as a man. She is a widow and is off to see her father and sisters. Then she plans to enlist in the army.

Only Nell has some special powers, that she used to fight off some highwaymen. Only later on Thomas Blancheford, the spoilt son of a squire and the local magistrate kills Nell's father, a publican.

Now Nell plans revenge. Only to be falsely accused of murdering Lord Blancheford.

The show has an interesting fantasy angle. Nell's powers through Billy Blind (Nick Mohammed) a sort of Jiminy Cricket type character.

On the other hand Thomas Blancheford wants to dabble in evil through the influence of the Earl of Poynton (Adrian Lester.)

The first episode rattled along nicely. It was pacy, had some good set peices. The villains are hissable.

The fantasy cod historical setting of England in 1705. Allows the show to have the Bridgerton type casting.

I started watching this with my teenage daughter and we were both pleasantly surprised by how quickly Ep 1pulls you in.

It's a clever mix of swashbuckling adventure, period drama, and just a touch of magic. The historical fiction angle works well... the 18th-century setting is convincing without feeling stuffy, and the costumes really pop on screen. There's colour, flair and a bit of grit, so it feels lived-in but still fun to watch.

Nell, played brilliantly by Louisa Harland, is a fantastic lead: bold, witty and a little unpredictable. She brings a modern spark without losing the sense of period. The supporting cast looks promising too, with some sharp turns that hint at bigger roles to come. The action sequences are slick, the production values high, and it manages to balance excitement with accessibility... great for teens, but engaging enough for adults.

What we liked most is that it feels fresh: not another dry history lesson, but a rollicking tale with energy and heart. A strong, stylish start: 8/10 from us, and we'll definitely be watching on.