Edward and Mrs Simpson

Miniseries

1978 · 7 episodes · 7h 0m in all

While still the Prince of Wales, the future Edward VIII meets the married American socialite, Wallis Simpson. Their relationship causes furor in the palace and in parliament, especially when King George V dies, Mrs. Simpson gets divorced, and King Edward announces his intention to marry her.

Episodes

1. 1

   1. The Little Prince

   8 Nov 1978 · 60 min

   Edward, Prince of Wales, meets Lady Furness and, in East Africa, goes on a private safari with her. Back in England, she becomes hostess at his residence at Fort Belvedere and introduces him to Wallis Simpson.

2. 2

   2. Venus at the Prow

   15 Nov 1978 · 60 min

   In part 2, Edward's growing infatuation with Wallis creates scandal. In Biarritz the couple cross the boundary between friendship and love.

3. 3

   3. The New King

   22 Nov 1978 · 60 min

   In part 3, George V has died. Ernest Simpson tells Edward that Wallis has to choose between them.

4. 4

   4. The Divorce

   29 Nov 1978 · 60 min

   Wallis's divorce is heard at Ipswich, Stanley Baldwin pressures Edward and Beaverbrook persuades the press to keep quiet.

5. 5

   5. The Decision

   6 Dec 1978 · 60 min

   Edward refuses all advice including warnings that press silence cannot last.

6. 6

   6. Proposals

   13 Dec 1978 · 60 min

   Harmsworth suggests that if Wallis marries Edward she should not take on his rank or succession.

7. 7

   7. The Abdication

   20 Dec 1978 · 60 min

   Final part of the seven episode dramatisation of the romance between Edward, Prince Of Wales, and Mrs. Wallis Simpson.