The rise of Charles Dickens, from poverty to prosperity, traced and reflected in his writings.
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
 Michael JaystonCharles Dickens | Charles Dickens |
 Isla BlairEllen Ternan | Ellen Ternan |
| AAmanda ReissMaria Beadnell | Maria Beadnell |
 Jo RowbottomEleanor P. | Eleanor P. |
| SSheila GrantCatherine Hogarth | Catherine Hogarth |
 Ciaran MaddenMary Hogarth | Mary Hogarth |
| MMaureen BeckGeorgina Hogarth | Georgina Hogarth |
| AAnthony HigginsonMr. Hogarth | Mr. Hogarth |
| DDoreathea PhillipsMrs. Hogarth | Mrs. Hogarth |
 Colin JeavonsWilkie Collins | Wilkie Collins |
| DDavid MarchNarrator | Narrator |