Season 4 • Episode 6
LatestHaving sorted out the problem of Clare seeing a married man, Sarah now finds herself in an alarmingly similar situation. Of course Eleanor jumps to the wrong conclusion.
After Henry is a British sitcom written by Simon Brett, and starring Prunella Scales and Joan Sanderson. Originating as a radio programme on BBC Radio 4 from 1985 to 1989, it was adapted for television by Thames Television. Sarah is the 42-year-old widow of GP Henry France. She lives in an often volatile family situation with her elderly mother Eleanor Prescott, and her daughter, 18-year-old Clare, with both of whom she shares a house. Following Henry's death, the family have to find a way to cope with each other as best they can. The BBC was initially hesitant to produce a series but after three successful runs on BBC Radio 4, it was commissioned for the small screen. The series was surprisingly popular, attracting over 14 million viewers. Four seasons were made, with the last transmitted after the death of Sanderson, who died on 24 May 1992.
Acting
Joan Sanderson's deadpan delivery is weaponized.
Writing
Simon Brett's stageplay precision, honed on radio.
Production
Radio-to-TV done right — kept the intimacy.
Creator
Simon Brett
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Sanderson was 75 playing Eleanor — the same age Prunella Scales is now, who was 50 playing Sarah. British casting has no mercy.
The radio version ran three seasons before Thames took a chance — BBC TV only greenlit it after proving it worked without pictures. Classic.
GB
