TV series
Set during the 18th century Napoleonic Wars, Horatio Hornblower, a young and shy midshipman, rises through the ranks to become an admiral.
Availability
Checked Jul 22, 2026
Hornblower premiered October 7, 1998. We don't have a confirmed streaming, rental or purchase option yet.
Set during the 18th century Napoleonic Wars, Horatio Hornblower, a young and shy midshipman, rises through the ranks to become an admiral.
Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.
Episode 1
In 1793, 17-year-old Horatio Hornblower begins his career in His Majesty's Navy, and must prove himself in battle when war is declared.
Directed by Andrew GrieveGuest stars Michael Byrne, Richard Lumsden, Robert Bathurst, Duncan Bell, Vincent Grass, Dorian Healy, Roger May, Vincent Grass
Episode 2
Promoted to Acting Lieutenant, Hornblower is forced to question his readiness for command.
Directed by Andrew GrieveGuest stars Rupert Holliday-Evans, Andrew Tiernan, Denis Lawson, Ian McNeice, Chris Barnes
Episode 3
Hornblower leads a daring raid on a French sloop, and is rewarded by being allowed to set sail for England.
Guest stars Cherie Lunghi, Christopher Fulford, Ronald Pickup
Episode 4
The Admiralty endorses a daring plan to overthrow the French government.
Guest stars Samuel West, Estelle Skornik, Peter Vaughan, Antony Sher
Episode information updated Jul 24, 2026
Available now in United States
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ITV1United Kingdom
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