A Rare Gem.

Major British TV hits which have been americanised in the past have generally been lamentable. The House of Cards with Ian Richardson was simply wonderful, consequently, when you heard that an American version was in the offing, you could only be profoundly apprehensive. When you heard that Kevin Spacey would play Frank Underwood (originally Francis Urquhart, of course), it was possible to feel moderately optimistic.
11 shows into the first series, I have been delighted with the supporting cast but Spacey, given the meatiest role of his career, has dug in  most memorably and made a mighty meal of it. Gritty, political shenanigans of the highest order! (Wonderful - albeit a bit 'near the knuckle' on more than a few occasions.)