The Other Bennet Sister has become the biggest launch for a new drama in the UK since May 2025, with a consolidated audience of 7.3 million for its first episode. The 28-day figure, which includes viewing across all platforms and streamers, saw 4.1 million (56%) of the audience watch via BBC iPlayer.
The drama, based on Janice Hadlow's acclaimed novel, follows Mary Bennet, the overlooked middle sister in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Viewers have enjoyed watching Mary leave Longbourn behind and travel to London to live with her aunt and uncle, where she begins a journey of self-discovery.
Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, said: 'We’re delighted that The Other Bennet Sister has been taken into the nation’s hearts. It seems Mary, brought beautifully to life by Ella Brucolleri, may have been overlooked by her own family, but she has been embraced with open arms by the audience.'
Jane Tranter, CEO of Bad Wolf, added: 'Bringing such a significant new audience to the world of Jane Austen on the BBC has been, from start to finish, a joy. Mary Bennet may have begun this journey as a wallflower, but she is now, quite rightfully, on everyone's dance card.'
The series, produced by Bad Wolf and written by Sarah Quintrell with Maddie Dai, premiered on BBC iPlayer and BBC One on 15 March. It will be shown in the US and Canada on BritBox, with Sony Pictures Television handling international distribution.
