Hedda Gabler (ITV 1981, Diana Rigg, Denis Lill)

In Hedda Gabler, the Norwegian period drama by Ibsen, Hedda arrives in her new home with new husband George Tesman, a scholar who is more caught up in his work than Hedda. Meanwhile Eilert Lovborg, who was once a lover of Hedda’s, is George’s main rival for a professorship and has also just published a successful book. Hedda is determined to prove that she still has a hold over Lovborg and she leads the former alcoholic straight back into dissolution, leading to a tragic end for both Hedda and Lovborg.

This was something of a heavyweight production, lots of big guns, from adapter Osborne to star players like Diana Rigg, Alan Dobie and Denis Lill.

Diana Rigg, in all her imperious gorgeousness, is superb as Hedda, all haughty ice maiden but able to turn on the charm when she wants something. Surely Hedda is one of the most manipulative characters of all time. Denis Lill turns in a fantastic performance too, by turns eager and bewildered, his George is no match for Hedda who has him wrapped around her little finger.

classic quote
“Why does everything I touch become vulgar, absurd and commonplace”

production details
UK / ITV Network – Yorkshire / 1×75 minute episode / Broadcast 3 March 1981

Writer: John Osborne / Play: Henrik Ibsen / Costumes: Charles Knode / Production Design: Eileen Diss / Producer: Pat Sandys / Director: David Cunliffe

cast
DIANA RIGG as Hedda Tesman
DENIS LILL as George Tesman
ALAN DOBIE as Judge Brack
PHILIP BOND as Eilert Lovborg
ELIZABETH BELL as Thea Elvsted
KATHLEEN BYRON as Aunt Juliana
ROSALIE WILLIAMS as Berthe

Alastair James is the editor-in-chief of Memorable TV, leading the charge in covering today's must-see television. A lifelong television enthusiast, his passion began with a deep dive into the world of classic sci-fi, culminating in his role as editor of "Beyond the Static," a publication devoted to celebrating iconic sci-fi series. While his love for classic television remains, Alastair's focus at Memorable TV is firmly on the present, analyzing the latest trends in the television landscape, from gripping crime dramas to the ever-evolving strategies of Survivor. His insights have been featured in numerous publications. At Memorable TV, Alastair's goal is to provide readers with sharp commentary, engaging reviews, and in-depth analysis of the shows dominating the current conversation.