Wolf Hall: Rafe Sadler and Gregory's fate after Thomas Cromwell's execution

The BBC’s Wolf Hall returned with its latest and final chapter, and fans have hailed the dramatic conclusion of Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light, which aired on Sunday night (December 15).

The critically acclaimed historical drama, inspired by Hilary Mantel’s bestselling novels, chronicles the life of Thomas Cromwell, portrayed by Mark Rylance, the trusted advisor to King Henry VIII. The series masterfully depicts Cromwell’s meteoric rise to power, his pivotal role in the English Reformation, and his eventual downfall.

As Wolf Hall continues to captivate audiences, the spotlight shifts to the real stories behind its characters. Thomas Cromwell’s dramatic fall from grace in 1540 marked a seismic shift in Tudor England, sending ripples through King Henry VIII’s court. His execution signalled the end of a remarkable political career, leaving his allies — Rafe Sadler, a loyal servant, and Gregory Cromwell, his devoted son - to navigate the treacherous aftermath.

The fallout from Cromwell’s death underscored the perilous nature of the Tudor court. While Cromwell’s rivals celebrated his demise, his allies faced a delicate balancing act to ensure their survival. Both Rafe Sadler and Gregory Cromwell managed to escape the most dire consequences of their association with the fallen statesman, though their journeys took distinctly different paths.

But what became of Cromwell’s son and trusted peers after his untimely death? Gregory Cromwell and Rafe Sadler, two prominent figures depicted in Wolf Hall, played key roles in the political intrigues surrounding Cromwell’s life.

Cromwell’s Fall

Thomas Cromwell’s execution on July 28, 1540, marked the sudden and brutal end of his meteoric rise to power—a moment vividly portrayed in Wolf Hall.

Cromwell had been one of the most powerful men in Henry VIII’s court, serving as the king’s chief advisor and playing an instrumental role in reshaping England. For a time, Cromwell’s power seemed unshakeable, but the Tudor court was a treacherous place where loyalties could shift overnight.

When Cromwell fell, his execution sent shockwaves through the political establishment. His allies and supporters—many of whom owed their positions and futures to him—found themselves vulnerable and scrambling to secure their survival.

For Rafe Sadler, Cromwell’s trusted confidant, and Gregory Cromwell, Thomas’s only surviving son, the aftermath of Cromwell’s downfall brought different, yet equally uncertain, challenges.

Their fates were suddenly undetermined as they sought to maintain their status and protect themselves in a court that showed no mercy to those on the losing side of power.

Rafe Sadler

Rafe Sadler, one of Thomas Cromwell’s most trusted allies, managed to escape the chaos that followed his mentor’s downfall. Known for his political skill and unwavering loyalty, Sadler avoided the fate that befell many of Cromwell’s associates. His reputation as a capable administrator kept him in Henry VIII’s favour and secured his place in Tudor politics.

After Cromwell’s death, Sadler continued to rise through the ranks. He was knighted and became one of Henry VIII’s key diplomats, serving on significant missions and playing a role in negotiating major treaties. Under Edward VI, Sadler’s influence grew further as he became a member of the Privy Council, helping to shape the kingdom’s policies. Unlike many others, he never faced imprisonment in the Tower of London.

Sadler’s adaptability and steadfast loyalty enabled him to survive and thrive during some of England’s most uncertain years. By the time of his death in 1587, he had lived a long and prosperous life, a rare achievement for those tied to Cromwell’s legacy.

Gregory Cromwell

Gregory Cromwell, Thomas Cromwell’s only surviving son, faced a more uncertain path. His father’s execution brought shame and upheaval to the Cromwell family, but Gregory’s connections and careful alliances allowed him to avoid punishment. His marriage to Elizabeth Seymour, sister of Jane Seymour—Henry VIII’s third wife—was instrumental in securing his place at court.

Despite the scandal of his father’s death, Gregory retained his titles and was not directly targeted. With the support of his powerful in-laws, he quietly rebuilt the family’s reputation. Gregory served as a member of Parliament and held respected positions in Henry VIII’s court, where he remained loyal to the crown. His decision to maintain a low profile helped him avoid the dangers that plagued many others in his father’s circle.

Gregory died in 1551 at a relatively young age, but his ability to preserve the family’s name and status ensured that the Cromwell legacy endured.