Episode 4: Heavy Is the Head That Wears the Crown
In 1745 as Charles and his Highland army march through England, there’s panic on London's streets - with newspapers full of stories of Highland savages heading towards the city.
In 1745 as Charles and his Highland army march through England in their bid to take over the British throne, there’s panic on the streets of London - with English newspapers full of stories of raping, murdering Highland savages heading towards the city.
But then, unexpectedly, the invading Highland army retreats back to Scotland. It’s a fateful decision that leads to Culloden - the last major battle on British mainland soil.
Jack Lowden presents the dramatic story of the rise and fall of Bonnie Prince Charlie and the 1745 Jacobite rebellion. Written by Colin MacDonald with original music by Duncan Chisholm.
Narrator…………………………………Jack Lowden
Bonnie Prince Charlie ……………Lorn Macdonald
Colonel John O’Sullivan …………Gavin Mitchell
Lord George Murray………………Robert Jack
Clan Chief MacDonald…………...Iain Macrae
Dudley Bradstreet…………………..Kenny Blyth
Donald Cameron…………………....Sam James Smith
Allan Cameron………………………..Douglas Yannaghas
Catherine Cameron…………………Helen Mackay
Written by..........................................Colin MacDonald
Music arranged by..........................Duncan Chisholm
Music performed by Duncan Chisholm, Ingrid Henderson,
Martin O’Neill and Ross Ainslie.
With contributions by historians, Jacqueline Riding, Alistair Moffat
and Maggie Craig
Edited by.................................................Kris MacConachie
Studio Managers..................................Sean Mullervy and Kris MacConnachie
Executive Producer..............................Gordon Kennedy
Broadcast Assistant..............................Clare Hipkiss
Producer/Director.......................................Bruce Young
Recorded at BBC Scotland Drama Studios, Pacific Quay, Glasgow
An Absolutely production for BBC Radio 4
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- Fri 6 Jun 2025 14:15BBC Radio 4
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