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Duration
30 minutes
Series Info
Season 5 Episode 9 of 18

Quick Summary

A middle‑aged woman reluctantly learns that her husband is actively pursuing a young mistress. The drama dramatically examines the personal consequences of this discovery for their relationship. Sheila Gish stars in the production, intensely bringing the emotional conflict to life.

About This Program

A Harmless Vanity is a television programme presented as a single episode. Classified within the drama genre, the work is identified simply as an episode rather than a series, and it centres on domestic intrigue. It is presented as a self‑contained story rather than part of a longer series, and the title hints at the superficial concerns that drive the narrative. The central storyline follows a woman in her middle years who comes to the unsettling realisation that her husband is seeking the company of a much younger woman. This discovery forms the core conflict, highlighting the wife's confrontation with her husband's desire for a youthful mistress. Her discovery forces her to confront the reality of her marriage and the age gap involved. The production features actress Sheila Gish in a leading role, bringing the central character's experience to the screen. Her involvement is the only cast detail provided, and it underscores the dramatic focus of the piece. Gish's performance anchors the episode, giving weight to the emotional turbulence that unfolds. The drama unfolds through the interactions and emotional stakes inherent in the situation. Overall, the episode offers a concise look at marital strain when one partner pursues an extramarital liaison with a significantly younger individual. By concentrating on the wife's perspective, the programme examines the personal impact of such a betrayal within a domestic setting, staying true to its dramatic classification. The narrative remains focused on the personal consequences, avoiding any broader social commentary.

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Tales of the Unexpected broadcasts on Sky Arts HD at 9:30am, Monday, 2 February 2026. (Subtitles)

Channel Numbers:
Sky HD113Virgin123

Production Details

Runtime30 mins

Cast & Crew

KB
Keith Barronas George Hitchman
PN
Phoebe Nichollsas Carol
CM
Carol Macreadyas Liz Ferguson
SG
Sheila Gishas Mary Hitchman
CF
Colin Farrellas Dave Ferguson
CB
Chas Bryeras Frogman