The Queen's Gambit
Openings
Season 1, Episode 1 · Aired 2020-10-23
Synopsis
Sent to an orphanage at age 9, Beth develops an uncanny knack for chess — and a growing dependence on the green tranquilizers given to the children.
Pilot desk note
From the desk: The Queen's Gambit opens its catalog run with “Openings” (2020-10-23). Proved a niche subject could become a global phenomenon and fashion reset. Anya Taylor-Joy supernova, chess set sellouts, and Beth Harmon cosplay everywhere.
In the series
This episode is part of The Queen's Gambit (2020) on Netflix.
Orphan chess prodigy, mid-century style, addiction vs. genius — event TV in seven moves.
Key cast
- Anya Taylor-Joy as Beth Harmon
- Bill Camp as Mr. Shaibel
- Moses Ingram as Jolene
- Thomas Brodie-Sangster as Benny Watts
- Marielle Heller as Alma Wheatley
- Harry Melling as Harry Beltik