A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story

Ruth Ellis is arrested for killing her lover, David, with a gun in her hand. While the police see an open-and-shut case, her solicitor, John Bickford, suspects there’s more to the story.

At the Old Bailey, Ruth faces judgment shaped by British class and legal biases. Bickford fears she’s withholding vital details that could save her. Outside the courtroom, we uncover her sacrifices for David and a toxic love triangle.

Found guilty and sentenced to hang, Ruth reflects on her relationship, lost dreams, and pregnancy, as her lawyer pressures the Home Office for a reprieve. Desperate and reliant on Desmond for her son, Ruth faces the weight of her looming fate.

The day before Ruth’s execution, she finally tells her lawyer, Victor Mishcon, the full truth. With just 24 hours to save her, Mishcon uncovers the events leading to David’s murder, revealing a story that now unfolds with new clarity.