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A Woman of Independent Means

Bess Steed marries her childhood sweetheart in the early part of the 20th century and begins a life in the high society of Dallas, Texas. As time goes by, things do not work out as she expects. Her husband dies of influenza, and she finds that she must pick up and carry along with her life. She proves to be a strong, commited, and loving individual who attracts new loves into her life and finds that she can take good care of the old ones. Despite further tragedy in losing her oldest son, and a second marriage that is not all that she expects it to be she continues to survive as independently as she has discovered the courage to do so.

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Cast & Crew See All

Sheila McCarthy
Totsie
Ann Hearn
Lydia
Andrea Roth
Eleanor, as an adult

Season 1 Episode Guide See All

Episode 1

Part I

Sun, Feb 19, 1995120 mins

Based on author, Elizabeth Forsythe Haily's novel about a turn-of-the-century woman who refuses to be ruled by society. After marrying her childhood sweetheart, Bess Alcott begins a life in the high society of Dallas, Texas. However, as time goes by, things don't end up turning out the way she expects, and Bess is left to face not only many personal triumphs, but losses as well.

Where to Watch

Featured Video

A Woman Of Independent Means
A Woman Of Independent Means
1:02

1:02 A Woman Of Independent Means

Awards

  • 1996 - Golden Globe - Best Performance by an Actress in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television - nominated
  • 1996 - Actor - Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a TV Movie or Miniseries - nominated
  • 1995 - Primetime Emmy - Outstanding Individual Achievement in Casting - nominated
  • 1995 - Primetime Emmy - Outstanding Individual Achievement in Costume Design for a Miniseries or a Special - winner

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