That was my first thought as well. One of the crucial story narratives throughout all the Rumpole novels are the marriage dynamics between him and his wife. Perhaps the biggest single vehicle for the comedy.

You simply cannot replicate that by switching genders for an entire range of reasons although it would not surprise me in the slightest to see this made with a Lesbian couple.

It is not Rumpole though. Merely hijacking a 'brand', and I don't mean Jo who does perhaps share at least a fleeting resemblence with the original character.

Edited by Matov (25 Jul 2021 11.14am)

"The Party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command." - 1984 - George Orwell.

I sort of get why screenwriters might look to alter the gender dynamics in that kind of story, especially if they are not presenting it as an accurate historical representation.

I can even see why you might take a character such as 'James Bond' and change it up a little i.e say a black character playing the role. Even a 'Jane' Bond could work.

But something like Rumpole, it's ludicrous to change him into her. Loses a huge amount from what made the stories what they were. Rumpole simply does not work as a woman.

"The Party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command." - 1984 - George Orwell.

I think even if they kept it male they would have a problem if they set it today. Rumpole and the rest of the cast were characters of their time "Gammons" if you like.

Doing it today with a female lead who spends her time battling the oppressive forces of the male institutions, well I think most career women would call that old hat or just grow a pair.

Besides Rumpole was never interested in being a career lawyer.

I should add in fairness that the DM article seems to be a puff piece there is no mention that any TV company has signed up to it.

Edited by Badger11 (25 Jul 2021 11.39am)

One more point

You’re confusing left-wing with politics.

Terminator movies.

The scientists, senior corporate managers and heroes are either female, ethnic or both.

The homeless tramp that Kyle Reese robbed the trousers from ? a blonde man.

Kayla did Anfield & Old Trafford

Just seen one of the victims on the news. Another heartbreaking story of poor children being exploited. He credited the Rotherham girls for coming forward which made him decide to bring this out so at least some good has come from that.