First Look: Richard E. Grant and Ruth Jones Unite

As Jane Austen’s 250th birthday approaches on December 16, 2025, fans can look forward to a fresh adaptation of her iconic work. “The Other Bennet Sister” focuses on Mary Bennet, the overlooked middle sister from “Pride and Prejudice.”

First Look: Richard E. Grant and Ruth Jones Unite

The series cast features Ella Bruccoleri in the lead role as Mary Bennet, alongside Richard E. Grant and Ruth Jones, who portray Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. Notable actors Indira Varma and Richard Coyle take on the roles of Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. Additionally, Laurie Davidson and Dónal Finn appear as potential suitors Mr. Ryder and Mr. Hayward, respectively.

Production Details

• Writer: Sarah Quintrell has penned nine of the ten episodes, with Maddie Dai contributing one episode.
• Directors: Jennifer Sheridan and Asim Abbasi are at the helm of the project.
• Production Company: Bad Wolf, known for “His Dark Materials” and “Industry,” has produced the series.
• Filming Location: The series was filmed in Wales.

Release Information

“The Other Bennet Sister” is set to premiere in 2026 on BBC iPlayer and BBC One. It will also be available on BritBox, which will broadcast the series in the same year.

The Storyline

The narrative begins at Longbourn, the Bennet family’s home, where the lively household consists of five unmarried daughters: Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, Kitty, and Lydia. Amidst societal pressures, the sisters navigate the complexities of Regency England, where marriage is both aspiration and necessity.

Unlike her sisters, Mary embarks on a path of self-discovery. She leaves Longbourn for London to live with her aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. This transition marks the beginning of a new chapter in her life.

Creators’ Insights

Janice Hadlow, the author of the source material, expressed excitement about bringing Mary Bennet to the forefront. She stated that the series explores Jane Austen’s world through Mary’s perspective, providing a fresh angle. Sarah Quintrell highlighted the universality of Austen’s themes, stating the adaptation aims to resonate with both new and longtime fans.

Production Team

• Executive Producers: Kate Crowther, Becca Kinder, and Jane Tranter for Bad Wolf; Rebecca Ferguson for BBC; and others for BritBox.
• Development Oversight: Dan McCulloch and Ryan Rasmussen from Bad Wolf.

In summary, “The Other Bennet Sister” promises to deliver a poignant adaptation of Austen’s work, showcasing different narratives that resonate with contemporary audiences. With its strong cast and production team, viewers eagerly await its debut.