Release Date for Episode 3 of ‘A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story’ Confirmed

BritBox and ITV have teamed up to deliver a gripping period true-crime drama titled A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story. This miniseries tells the horrifying real-life tale of Ruth Ellis, who, at the age of 28, became the last woman to be executed in Britain. The first two episodes have already premiered and are available for streaming on BritBox.

The events unfold in 1955 when Ruth, portrayed with depth and nuance by Lucy Boynton, fatally shot her lover, David Blakely, on a bustling street in London. Remarkably, her trial was brief, lasting just two days, and she was executed a mere 22 days following the verdict. The narrative exposes profound societal injustices, particularly how Ellis was treated within the constraints of a sexist and classist English society of the time.

When to Watch Episode 3 of A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story

Laurie Davidson as David Blakely and Lucy Boynton as Ruth Ellis in 'A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story' — (ITV/BritBox)

The series launched with its first two episodes on February 17, and it is structured to include a total of four hour-long installments. Episode 3 is set to become available for streaming on BritBox in North America on February 24, followed by the concluding episode a week later on March 3. For audiences in the U. K., the entire series will be accessible on ITVX starting in March.

At the heart-stopping conclusion of episode 2, Ruth faces conviction for murder, receiving a sentence of death “according to law.”This pivotal moment brings forth the chilling realization that the screenplay is intricately woven with actual trial transcripts, enhancing its authenticity. As the drama unfolds, viewers witness the layers of Ruth’s case unraveling, revealing the complex interplay of societal pressure and personal turmoil within the upper echelons of British society.

In the forthcoming third episode, Ruth’s dwindling support system rally to seek a “reprieve”from her dire sentence. While history tells us their endeavors ultimately falter, it becomes increasingly evident that Ruth’s case is shrouded in ambiguity. Questions arise: Was Ruth driven to murder by external influences? What degree of mistreatment did she endure at the hands of Blakely, portrayed by Laurie Davidson?

Mark your calendars for the premiere of episode 3 of A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story on February 24, exclusively on BritBox.

Source & Images