Episode 1
Part 1
55m
The Labour Party leader Harry Perkins, a working class, fervent socialist and former trade union leader becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Episode credits
Directed by Mick JacksonWritten by Alan Plater
TV series
A Very British Coup
19881 season7.9 / 10
Working-class, left-leaning Harry Perkins is elected PM. As he works to implement social change via democratic process, the conservatives and their allies quietly begin working to remove him. Perkins' goals include nuclear disarmament, the dissolution of newspaper monopolies, open government and the closure of all US military bases on UK soil. While many members of the govnerment oppose him, he finds some support in Home Secretary Joan Cook and key members of his staff.
Availability
Not streaming in United States
Checked Sep 3, 2026
A Very British Coup premiered June 19, 1988. We don't have a confirmed streaming, rental or purchase option yet.
Synopsis
Working-class, left-leaning Harry Perkins is elected PM. As he works to implement social change via democratic process, the conservatives and their allies quietly begin working to remove him. Perkins' goals include nuclear disarmament, the dissolution of newspaper monopolies, open government and the closure of all US military bases on UK soil. While many members of the govnerment oppose him, he finds some support in Home Secretary Joan Cook and key members of his staff.
Season 1 episodes
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Where to watch A Very British Coup
Episode 2
Part 2
55m
Harry Perkins finds numerous enemies ranged against him—and they are in possession of a secret from his past.
Episode credits
Directed by Mick JacksonWritten by Alan Plater
Episode 3
Part 3
55mfinale
Harry is faced with political ruin, but bests his enemies in a way no-one can anticipate.
Episode credits
Directed by Mick JacksonWritten by Alan Plater
Episode information updated Sep 17, 2026
Available now in United States
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More about A Very British Coup
Cast
Ray McAnallyHarry Perkins
Tim McInnernyFiennes
Keith AllenThompson
Christine KavanaghLiz
Clive MerrisonT.V. InterviewerHugh MartinSampson
Harmage Singh KaliraiPatel
Stephanie FayermanEditorCredits
- Created by
- Alan Plater
- Written by
- Alan Plater, Chris Mullin, Chris Mullin
Production details
- Status
- Ended
- Series type
- Miniseries
- Episodes
- 3
- Original language
- English
Networks & production
Channel 4United Kingdom- Skreba FilmsUnited Kingdom
- Parallax PicturesUnited Kingdom
Themes
based on novel or bookbritish politicsbritish prime ministerconspiracyinvestigative journalismminiseriespolitical dramapolitics