Demelza was a trailblazer forwomen

Aidan Turner may have made headlines – again – with more topless shots of his toned torso, but it’s often women who make the difference in Poldark.

And Eleanor Tomlinson, who has played fiery redhead Demelza from the very beginning, says she’s thrilled that’s the case in these #MeToo times.

“Playing a strong female character in a drama written by a female feels like an incredibly fortunate and strong place to be,” said Eleanor.

“I feel like I am at the forefront of this wave of a new era which I hope is going to come and which will hopefully include better roles for women, more women writers, more women directors, and generally more creative opportunities for women.”

Although Ross’s political passions take him to London a lot this series, Cornwall not the capital is much more to Demelza’s taste.

“Ross has left her in charge of the mine, the farm and the children, which is a great deal for her to take on board, especially as a woman living in that time,” said Eleanor.

“So it is a very interesting storyline for her this year – it’s all about independence and showing Ross how well she can do his job.”

And she’s trying to play cupid to both her younger brothers.

“This series we see Demelza trying to marry off Drake to Rosina Hoblyn, which is all to mend his broken heart over Morwenna,” adds Eleanor.

“We also see Sam breaking his heart over Emma so there is a lot of heartache for the boys this series and Demelza feels that strongly.

“She is very protective over her brothers and she wants the best for them.

“They are not quite fitting in as they should but in a very Demelzaesque way, you really see the parallels between the siblings.” Poldark, BBC1, tonight, 9pm.