Features
Classic TV Revisited: The Lakes
Cracker creator Jimmy McGovern penned this dark tale of murder, debt, sexual tension and family strife. The critically acclaimed drama proved a launch-pad for many distinguished acting careers. John Simm, Emma Cunniffe, Mary Jo Randle, Paul Copley, Robert Pugh, Elizabeth Bennett starred and the series ran from 1997-1999.
The Story
Lovable rogue Danny Kavanah is an itinerant gambler and perpetual loser. He decides to leave his native Liverpool and try a fresh start in the Lake District. He imagines a quiet, uneventful life surrounded by beautiful countryside, but is soon caught up in a series of horrifying events, including the death of three schoolgirls, which he appears to be connected to.
Critical Acclaim
The series was applauded by critics and went on to receive a number of Bafta nominations. It’s considered one of the finest dramas of the 1990s, and many admired the show’s decision, particularly in the second series, to tackle dark, controversial subjects.
After the Show
John Simm went on to star in the films 24 Hour Party People, Human Traffic and Wonderland and the acclaimed TV series State of Play and Life on Mars. Many of Simm’s co-stars have become regular faces on British TV, appearing in The Bill, Coronation Street, Holby City, Peak Practice, Clocking Off and many more.
Trivia
The setting for the hotel featured in the show is The Ullswater Hotel, Glenridding. Much of the location filming took place around Patterdale and Ullswater.