In The Liver Birds, the three lead actors are Polly James as Beryl Hennessey, Nerys Hughes as Sandra Hutchinson, and Elizabeth Estensen as Carol Boswell. This classic BBC sitcom follows the lives and loves of two young women sharing a…
Main cast
- Beryl HennesseyPolly James1–6Main
- Sandra HutchinsonNerys Hughes1–10Main
- Carol BoswellElizabeth Estensen7–10Main
Supporting cast
- Lucien BoswellMichael Angelis7–10Supp
- Pauline HennesseyMollie Sugden1–6Supp
- Gordon HennesseyIvor Salter1–3Supp
- Arthur BoswellJohn G. Heller7–8Supp
- Mrs. HutchinsonSheila Fay1–4Supp
- Mr. HutchinsonJackie Brown1–3Supp
Guest & voice
- MavisSandra Payne1Guest
- RickyStephen Rea3Guest
- JennyKate Fahy5Guest
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About this cast
The Liver Birds is a classic BBC sitcom that originally aired from 1969 to 1978, with a special in 1979 and a brief revival in 1996. It centres on two young women, Beryl and Sandra, who share a flat in Liverpool, and captures the social changes of the era with warmth and humour.
FAQs
Who plays Sandra in The Liver Birds?
Sandra Hutchinson is played by Welsh actress Nerys Hughes, who appeared in all 10 series of the original run.
Who plays Beryl in The Liver Birds?
Beryl Hennessey is played by Polly James. She left the show after series 6 and was replaced by Elizabeth Estensen’s character Carol.
Is The Liver Birds set in Liverpool?
Yes, the series is set in Liverpool, with the title being a pun on the Liver Bird, the city’s iconic symbol. The show captures the local culture and vernacular.
When did The Liver Birds first air on BBC?
The sitcom debuted on 14 April 1969 and ran for ten series until 1978, followed by a one-off special in 1979 and a short revival in 1996.
Did any famous actors appear in The Liver Birds?
Yes, several well-known actors made guest appearances, including Stephen Rea, Mollie Sugden (who also had a regular role), and Sheila Fay.
Sources & where to watch: Wikipedia · IMDb · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026