While still the Prince of Wales, the future Edward VIII meets the married American socialite, Wallis Simpson. Their relationship causes furor in the palace and in parliament, especially when King George V dies, Mrs. Simpson gets divorced, and King Edward announces his intention to marry her.
WritersFrances Donaldson, Simon Raven
The Little Prince
Nov 8, 1978
Edward, Prince of Wales, meets Lady Furness and, in East Africa, goes on a private safari with her. Back in England, she becomes hostess at his residence at Fort Belvedere and introduces him to Wallis Simpson.
Venus at the Prow
Nov 15, 1978
In part 2, Edward's growing infatuation with Wallis creates scandal. In Biarritz the couple cross the boundary between friendship and love.
The New King
Nov 22, 1978
In part 3, George V has died. Ernest Simpson tells Edward that Wallis has to choose between them.
The Divorce
Nov 29, 1978
Wallis's divorce is heard at Ipswich, Stanley Baldwin pressures Edward and Beaverbrook persuades the press to keep quiet.
The Decision
Dec 6, 1978
Edward refuses all advice including warnings that press silence cannot last.
Proposals
Dec 13, 1978
Harmsworth suggests that if Wallis marries Edward she should not take on his rank or succession.
The Abdication
Dec 20, 1978
Final part of the seven episode dramatisation of the romance between Edward, Prince Of Wales, and Mrs. Wallis Simpson.
