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Worshipped as a national savior, Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson masterminded the naval victories that thwarted Napoleon's plans to invade Britain. Yet, in the midst of public adulation, rumors swirled about his private life. Nelson took a friend's wife as a mistress and even fathered a child by her in secret. Starring Kenneth Colley (Monty Python's Life of Brian), Geraldine James (The Jewel in the Crown), and Tim Pigott-Smith (V for Vendetta), this lavish historical drama examines Nelson through the eyes of four people close to him: his wife, who feels bitter and betrayed but ultimately loving; his friend, who helplessly loses his wife to a hero; his captain, who admires Nelson's bold leadership but disdains his lifestyle; and an ordinary seaman, who turns to his commander for inspiration while facing death. What emerges is an unconventional portrait of a complex figure and a study in the effects of fame. Seen on Masterpiece Theatre.
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Episode 1
Sun, Feb 21, 198253 mins
After three successful years at sea, Lord Nelson attends a theater presentation in his honor accompanied by Lady Nelson and Sir William and Lady Hamilton. Lord Nelson had met the Hamiltons in Naples and Lady Nelson is fully aware of the rumors about her husband and Lady Hamilton. When Lady Hamilton falls ill during the performance she realizes that Hamilton is pregnant by her husband. After a particularly embarrassing dinner, they have it out and after 15 years of marriage a formal separation ensues. Lady Nelson remained on friendly terms with her father-in-law, Rev. Edmund Nelson. Lord Nelson however refused any contact with her.