BBC’s new period drama series, Dope Girls, promises to be a visual treat for fans of historical crime sagas. With a cast that reads like a who’s who of television talent, the series transports viewers back to the gritty underworld of 1920s London. Leading the charge is Julianne Nicholson, famed for her roles in *Mare of Easttown* and *Law & Order*. In *Dope Girls*, she portrays Kate Galloway, a single mother pushed into the criminal underbelly post-World War I.
Joining her in this evocative narrative is Eliza Scanlen, known for her performances in *Little Women* and *Babyteeth*. Scanlen steps into the shoes of Violet Davies, one of London’s pioneering female undercover police officers, whose mission leads her into the heart of the city’s jazz-infused nightclubs. This role underscores her reputation for bringing complex young women to life on screen.
The series doesn't stop there. Making her debut in a lead TV role, Umi Myers captivates as Billie Cassidy, an enigmatic dancer compelled into a partnership with Kate as they launch an illicit nightclub operation. Meanwhile, Geraldine James, celebrated for her parts in *Downton Abbey* and *Sherlock Holmes*, takes on the role of Isabella Salucci, the fierce head of a notorious crime family. Her portrayal of ice-cold resolve amidst the bustling streets of London promises to be unforgettable.
The cast also boasts Dustin Demri-Burns, who delivers intensity as Damaso, Isabella’s foreboding son, and Rory Fleck Byrne, playing Luca, returning from the war to navigate a complex family legacy. Add Sebastian Croft as the sharp grandson Silvio, and Will Keen as Frederick Asquith-Gore, a stringent government minister adamant about cleaning up the nightclub scene, and there’s no shortage of drama and intrigue.
Set against the backdrop of London’s post-war transformation, *Dope Girls* melds historical authenticity with drama. Drawing inevitable comparisons to *Peaky Blinders*, it paints a vibrant picture of the jazz age, highlighting the role of women in a society on the cusp of change. The show promises not just entertainment, but an exploration of enduring themes like survival, power, and societal evolution.
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