Before 2023, the realm of LGBTQ+ representation in Britain was forever shaped by a collection of nine exceptional UK lesbian dramas. These captivating productions, which stand as a testament to the power of storytelling, not only entertained audiences but also broke barriers and challenged societal norms. From tender love stories to gripping narratives of self-discovery, these must-watch British lesbian dramas have become cultural touchstones, paving the way for greater visibility and understanding. Let’s delve into the world of these groundbreaking shows that left an indelible mark on LGBTQ+ representation in the UK.
1. Gentleman Jack Season 1~2 (2019-2022)
Adapted from the life of real-life figure Anne Lister, Gentleman Jack takes place in 1832 Halifax. Anne Lister (portrayed by Suranne Jones), known locally as Gentleman Jack, is a wealthy landowner, a diarist, a traveler, and an openly lesbian woman, often referred to as “The first modern lesbian.” The series explores her relationships with family, servants, tenants, business rivals, and her same-sex partner Ann Walker.
2. Lip Service Season 1~2 (2010-2012)
In this daring drama series by BBC Three, Lip Service follows the lives of a group of young lesbian women in modern Scottish society, delving into their experiences with sexuality, lies, and true love. Starring Laura Fraser, Ruta Gedmintas, and Fiona Button, the show boldly depicts the sexual lives and romantic endeavors of these women residing in present-day Glasgow.
3. Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit (1990)
Set in a remote town in the United Kingdom, Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit revolves around a girl named Janet (played by Charlotte Coleman), who grows up in a devout Protestant family. Janet’s mother (Geraldine McEwan) is a deeply religious and extreme believer who sees the world in two categories: allies who share her faith and everyone else, deemed enemies.
Under the influence of her fanatical mother, Janet learns to suppress her true self. Unbeknownst to others, she is a lesbian, a secret that must never be revealed. However, when a girl who captures Janet’s heart enters her life, she can no longer bear the fear and hiding. The most intense battle erupts between Janet and her mother.
4. Stephen Fry: Out There (2013)
In the first part of this two-part series, Stephen Fry reflects on the tremendous progress the LGBTQ+ community has made during his lifetime. He encounters influential figures like Elton John and David Furnish, a couple who inspired Stephen to embrace his sexuality openly, along with many others.
5. Killing Eve Season 1~4 (2018-2022)
Based on Luke Jennings’ novel series, Killing Eve follows two captivating characters: a mentally unstable assassin, Villanelle, and Eve (portrayed by Sandra Oh), the woman relentlessly pursuing her. Eve, a brilliant but bored British intelligence officer, yearns for the thrill of being a spy. Villanelle, on the other hand, is an elegant and talented killer who luxuriates in the extravagant lifestyle her violent profession affords. These two intelligent women become obsessed with each other, embarking on an epic cat-and-mouse game.
6. The Bisexual (2018)
If I were to label myself, “bisexual” would be the mark I’d choose.
I crave the sweetness of love between men and women, yet I’m enamored by the tenderness between lesbians.
But I’ve never considered or dared to come out. Perhaps this is the dilemma of bisexuality. Maybe this personality is shaped by our surroundings as we grow, but I believe it’s innate.
Is this why lesbians despise bisexuals? Bisexuals also have their own troubles. They fear becoming that kind of person, lingering on the fringes. Such choices inevitably lead to hurt, separation, resentment, no contact, or perhaps… never seeing each other again.
7. Queers (2017)
Ben Whishaw, Russell Tovey, and Alan Cumming star in the groundbreaking LGBT-themed series Queers, developed by BBC Four. This one-season, eight-episode show features monologues. Whishaw portrays a soldier returning from the trenches in “The Man on the Platform,” and Tovey appears as a gay actor in the 1980s in “More Anger.” Cumming takes part in a storyline revolving around same-sex marriage.
8. Feel Good Season 1~2 (2020-2021)
Stand-up comedian Mae Martin navigates not only her struggles with addiction but also the complexities of a passionate relationship with a former heterosexual girlfriend.
9. The Confessions of Frannie Langton (2022)
In the chaotic London of 1826, people gather outside the Old Bailey courthouse as Frannie Langton, a maid in the Benham household, stands trial for murder. Some call her a damned slave, a whore, a slut. Perhaps there is truth in these accusations, but it’s not the whole story.
This is Frannie’s first chance to tell her tale. It begins with a girl reading and learning on a plantation in Jamaica, and it ends in a grand house in London. In Frannie Langton’s passionate and painful confession, one burning question haunts her heart: why did she kill the only woman she ever loved in this world?
