The Franchise Affair (1988 TV series)

The Franchise Affair (1988 TV series) is a British television adaptation of Josephine Tey's 1948 novel of the same name. The three-part series was produced by the BBC and starred Rosalie Crutchley, Jeremy Brett, Natasha Richardson and Patrick Malahide.

The plot centers around the investigation into a claim by a young woman, Betty Kane, that she was held captive and abused by Marion Sharpe and her elderly mother, Louisa Sharpe, at their isolated country house known as The Franchise. Solicitor Robert Blair takes on the Sharpes' case, initially skeptical but gradually becoming convinced of their innocence. The series explores themes of prejudice, circumstantial evidence, and the power of rumor and gossip in a small community.

The 1988 adaptation is generally considered a faithful portrayal of Tey's novel. It is notable for its strong cast and its atmospheric depiction of post-war rural England. Jeremy Brett, best known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes, plays the role of Robert Blair with a quiet intensity. The series received positive reviews for its acting, direction, and adherence to the source material. It is one of several adaptations of Josephine Tey's work for television and radio.