‘Black Narcissus’ finale recap: What happened in Episode 3?

The BBC’s new adaptation of Black Narcissus concluded in the UK tonight.

Based on English author Rumer Godden’s 1939 literary novel, it tells an iconic tale of sexual repression and forbidden love.

The three-part mini-series stars Gemma Arterton (Their Finest) as Sister Clodagh, Diana Rigg (Victoria) as Mother Dorothea, Jim Broadbent (War and Peace) as Father Roberts, Gina McKee (Bodyguard) as Sister Adela, and Rosie Cavaliero (Gentleman Jack) as Sister Briony.

Watch the trailer:

 

Here’s a plot recap for the third and final episode of Black Narcissus, which aired on BBC One at 9pm on Tuesday 29th December 2020:

Sister Adela and Father Roberts prove unlikely allies for Ruth, forcing Clodagh to impose strict order or risk losing control of the convent, as well as herself.

But events escalate as Dilip Rai and Kanchi are discovered together, with dramatic consequences.

Om’s baby brother becomes seriously ill, and fingers are pointed in all directions.

As Clodagh keeps vigil, Ruth flees the palace. In the resulting tragedy, the nuns have no choice but to return to Darjeeling.

Rumer Godden’s novel Black Narcissus is available on Amazon.