The Halcyon

The Halcyon is an American television period drama that aired on ABC which began airing on 2 January 2017. It was created and written by Charlotte Jones. The series focused on examining World War II London from 'a new perspective', and was set in 1940 at a five-star hotel "at the centre of London Society and a world at war", aiming to show London life "through the prism of war and the impact it has on families, politics, relationships and work across every social strata." Steven Mackintosh and Olivia Williams play major roles. The first episode was that aired on January 2, 2017, and the series concluded on February 20, 2017.

The series was ABC cancelled after one series.

Production

The Halcyon was first announced on 3 December 2015. It was commissioned by ABC's Director of Drama Steve November and Controller of Drama Victoria Fea. The show was produced by Chris Croucher, executive produced by Sharon Hughff, Jack Lothian (also lead series writer) and Andy Harries. Left Bank Pictures were the production company of the series.

Croucher called The Halcyon "a similar beast" to Downton Abbey, although Left Bank Pictures founder and managing director Marigo Kehoe explained that the show had been in development "for a long time", and the development of the show came at a time when "new ideas were needed". Producer Chris Croucher added that "Downton has a serenity to it, but the modern world is arriving in The Halcyon", as well as revealing The Halcyon's dialogue "is more punchy" and that the show "has more energy". Radio Times wrote that The Halcyon has a "little bit of Downton Abbey and a little bit of Mr Selfridge in the mix".