Thirty-five years after it first captivated audiences, the classic BBC period drama House of Eliott continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many. Premiering in 1991, the series spanned three seasons and a total of 34 episodes, transporting viewers to the glamorous yet challenging world of 1920s fashion. Created by the acclaimed duo Jean Marsh and Eileen Atkins, known for their work on ‘Upstairs, Downstairs,’ the show chronicled the inspiring journey of two sisters who built a successful fashion empire from humble beginnings.
The Premise of The House of Eliott
Set against the backdrop of the Roaring Twenties, The House of Eliott centered on Beatrice and Evangeline Eliott, played by Stella Gonet and Louise Lombard, respectively. The narrative depicted their transformation from poverty and debt to becoming prominent figures in the fashion industry. Orphaned and facing their father’s financial burdens, the sisters were left with little education and significant liabilities. Through resilience and determination, they managed to sell their home and, with some assistance, launch their dressmaking business, The House of Eliott. The series was celebrated for its engaging storyline, featuring numerous twists and turns, and its exquisite costume design, which appealed greatly to fans of period dramas.
Where the Main Cast is Today
Stella Gonet (Beatrice Eliott)
Stella Gonet, who portrayed the elder sister Beatrice Eliott, has maintained a robust acting career since the show’s conclusion. Following her role in The House of Eliott, Gonet joined the cast of the BBC medical drama ‘Holby City,’ a spin-off of ‘Casualty,’ appearing in the series from 2007 to 2009. Her subsequent work includes notable appearances in major film and television projects. She portrayed Queen Elizabeth II in the 2021 film ‘Spencer,’ starring Kristen Stewart as Princess Diana. More recently, Gonet has been seen in ’28 Years Later’ and ‘The Dark,’ both released in 2024. Her upcoming projects include the film ‘Cast Me,’ as indicated by her professional listings.
Louise Lombard (Evangeline Eliott)
Louise Lombard, who brought the younger sister Evangeline Eliott to life, has also enjoyed a sustained career in the entertainment industry. Her impressive filmography includes a role in Christopher Nolan’s critically acclaimed 2023 epic, ‘Oppenheimer.’ Lombard has also been a recurring presence in the popular young adult film series ‘After,’ where she plays the character Trish Daniels. This franchise is based on the best-selling novel series by Anna Todd. In her personal life, Lombard married partner Tom Poleman at New York City Hall last year, sharing joyful moments from their wedding day on social media.
Aden Gillett (Jack Maddox)
Aden Gillett, who played the pivotal character Jack Maddox, has continued to work extensively in television and film. His diverse roles have taken him to various popular series, including Netflix’s historical drama ‘The Crown,’ the crime procedural ‘Vera,’ and the long-running detective series ‘Midsomer Murders.’ Gillett has also appeared in ‘Van Der Valk’ and ‘The Crow Girl.’ He is married to actress Sara Stewart, known for her role in ‘Sugar Rush,’ and the couple has two children.
Cathy Murphy (Sylvie)
Cathy Murphy, who played Sylvie, remains a recognizable figure on British television. She has featured in the Channel 5 soap opera ‘Family Affairs’ and took on the role of Julie Perkins in the BBC’s iconic soap ‘EastEnders.’ Murphy has also made multiple appearances in ‘Casualty’ and had smaller parts in acclaimed series such as ‘This Is Going to Hurt’ and ‘The Larkins.’ In 2024, she starred in the much-loved BBC drama ‘Call the Midwife,’ further cementing her presence in popular television programming.
Judy Flynn (Penelope)
Judy Flynn, who portrayed Penelope, has remained an active presence in the acting world. Alongside her work on The House of Eliott, Flynn is widely recognized for her role as Julie in the popular 1990s BBC sitcom ‘The Brittas Empire.’ Her more recent television credits include the Channel 5 crime drama ‘Ellis,’ as well as roles in the long-running soaps ‘Hollyoaks’ and ‘Ackley Bridge.’
Diana Rayworth (Betty)
Diana Rayworth played Betty in the period drama. According to available records, this was her final credited role. Sadly, Rayworth passed away in 1997 at the age of 54. Her earlier acting work included appearances in productions such as ‘Sorry, I’m a Stranger Here Myself,’ ‘With These Walls,’ and ‘Sam and the River.’
Victoria Alcock (Sarah)
Victoria Alcock, who played Sarah, is perhaps now more widely recognized for her role as Julie Saunders in the popular ITV prison drama ‘Bad Girls.’ Like many of her former co-stars, Alcock has continued to build a successful acting career. Her recent credits include roles in ‘Mr Bigstuff,’ ‘Changing Ends,’ and the acclaimed comedy series ‘People Just Do Nothing.’
Legacy of The House of Eliott
The enduring appeal of The House of Eliott lies in its compelling storytelling, strong female characters, and meticulous attention to historical detail, particularly in its depiction of the fashion world. The series offered a glimpse into the societal changes of the 1920s and the challenges faced by women striving for independence and professional success. The cast’s subsequent careers demonstrate the talent that was showcased in the drama, with many actors going on to achieve significant recognition in film, television, and theatre. As the show marks its 35th anniversary, its legacy continues to be celebrated by fans who appreciate its blend of drama, romance, and historical richness.
