Recreating a Modern Mitford

Bessie Carter attributes her role as Nancy Mitford to a confluence of fortunate circumstances, beginning with her birth in the same London hospital as Mitford, followed by shared neighborhoods and even the same school, albeit separated by decades. Furthermore, a serendipitous audition for the audiobook of *The Pursuit of Love* led to her being cast in the BritBox series, *Outrageous*. The role proved to be a perfect fit.

The six-part series chronicles the Mitford siblings in the pre-World War II era, portraying their privileged yet unconventional lives within the changing British aristocracy. The sisters’ later notoriety—Diana the Fascist, Jessica the Communist, Unity the Hitler-lover, Nancy the novelist, Deborah the Duchess, and Pamela the poultry connoisseur—is well-known. However, *Outrageous* focuses on their lives before achieving legendary status.

Carter’s prior roles in *Bridgerton* and *Mrs. Warren’s Profession* prepared her for the challenge. She acknowledges her initial awareness of Mitford as a renowned, witty author with politically diverse sisters. However, the role gave her an unparalleled insight into Mitford’s personal life and a world she previously knew little about. Immersion in Mary S. Lovell’s biography and the sisters’ extensive correspondence provided invaluable context.

The series creator, Sarah Williams, praises Carter’s performance, highlighting her intelligence, wit, and ability to portray both vulnerability and coolness. Carter’s performance set the tone for the rest of the cast, avoiding stereotypes and delving into the characters’ complexities. Carter herself experienced a personal transformation during filming, her first leading role providing significant personal and professional growth.

The series’ themes resonate with contemporary issues, mirroring the political divisions and class struggles of today. Considering a modern-day Nancy Mitford, Carter emphasizes her outward confidence and party-leading persona, but also acknowledges the complexities and personal growth she experienced throughout the story. The series showcases Mitford’s coming-to-terms with her privilege and her need to actively engage in the world beyond her privileged upbringing.