Wolf Hall fans were left bereft as the BBC series concluded on Sunday evening.
The beloved historical saga made its grand return to our screens last November following a nine-year hiatus, charting the extraordinary rise of Thomas Cromwell in the court of King Henry VIII.
The second season chronicled Cromwell’s fall from favour, culminating in his execution in the final instalment. Mark Rylance’s portrayal of Cromwell drew high praise on social media platforms, with fans sharing their sorrow at the show’s conclusion.
A fan wrote: “‘What’s left is like a sucked plum stone, on the side of a plate.’ What a line! Absolutely gutted that this masterpiece is at an end. Mark Rylance was born to play this role. Simply sublime.” Another chimed in: “Just finished the final episode of #WolfHall and my throat hurts from crying. What an incredible production. Mark Rylance is such a sublime actor.”
“I’m not sure I can cope with this last episode! #WolfHall Maybe Cromwell was a bit evil, but Mark Rylance portrays him too wonderfully for me to handle what’s coming,” a third wrote, with a fourth adding: “Hilary Mantel and Mark Rylance have broken my heart. As Cromwell fell so did my tears – and I doubt I’m alone. What a measured, beautiful dance of humanity in all its nakedness; love; ambition; envy and hate the cast and crew of #WolfHall have guided us through. Matchless work. Brava!”
Viewers called for recognition of the show’s excellence by nominating it for the BAFTA TV Awards. One shared: “#markrylance should get a BAFTA for his portrayal of Cromwell in #WolfHall utterly brilliant performance,” as another added: “#WolfHall has been stupendous and utterly deserving of @BAFTA awards.” A third penned: “Be prepared to give up your #Bafta awards to #WolfHall.”
In an interview, Mark Rylance shared his insights on Cromwell’s character, pondering whether he foresaw his own downfall. He said: “I think that’s a good question for the audience to consider, it’s one of the delights you’ll have watching the programme. I think he gets tired and there are times when he fantasises for a different life. He’s always aware that something bad could happen.
“You are reaping great benefits, great wealth, but you are dealing with people who are trying to put a knife in your back. You’re dealing with a very violent regime that is sustained by violence. And you are an agent of that regime.”
*Wolf Hall is available to catch up on BBC iPlayer.