Fans of BBC period dramas are in for a treat as a familiar face from Call the Midwife undergoes a remarkable transformation for a major new series. Actress Ella Bruccoleri, best known for playing Sister Frances, is set to lead the cast of The Other Bennet Sister, an upcoming adaptation that promises to shine a light on one of literature's most overlooked characters.
From Longbourn to London: Mary Bennet Takes Centre Stage
The BBC has released first-look images of the highly anticipated drama, which is scheduled to air in 2025. The series arrives ahead of the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen's birth, offering a fresh perspective on the world of Pride and Prejudice. Based on Janice Hadlow's acclaimed 2020 novel, the story follows Mary Bennet, the bookish and often-mocked middle sister of the famous Bennet family.
The official synopsis sets the scene at Longbourn, where Mr and Mrs Bennet oversee their five unmarried daughters. While Jane and Elizabeth navigate the social whirl of Regency England in pursuit of marriage, Mary's journey is markedly different. Leaving her family home behind, she travels to London to live with her aunt and uncle, the Gardiners, on Gracechurch Street. There, away from the shadow of her more glamorous sisters, Mary begins a poignant journey of self-discovery.
A Stellar Cast Joins the Beloved World
Ella Bruccoleri heads a formidable ensemble cast. She is joined by acting veterans including Richard E Grant and Indira Varma, alongside Ruth Jones of Gavin and Stacey fame. The line-up is completed by Richard Coyle, Laurie Davidson, and Donal Finn.
For Bruccoleri, this leading role marks a significant departure from her previous work. While audiences will recognise her as the compassionate Sister Frances in Call the Midwife, she has also appeared in Bridgerton as Miss Barragan, and in series such as Hotel Portofino and The Chelsea Detective.
Excitement Builds for Austen Adaptation
The release of the first images has generated considerable buzz among period drama enthusiasts and Jane Austen fans. Many have taken to social media to express their anticipation, with one commenting, "I am so looking forward to this. I re-read the novel this year in anticipation!" Others simply stated, "Cannot wait," and "So excited for this!"
Author Janice Hadlow shared her delight, saying: "It's very exciting to think that Mary Bennet will soon be coming to our screens, taking centre stage at last in the story Jane Austen never gave her, played with such feeling by the wonderful Ella Bruccoleri."
Screenwriter Sarah Quintrell highlighted the universal appeal of the story, noting: "Our story is set in a familiar and much-loved world, but we're coming at it from a completely new angle. Mary's story is about coming of age when you're the odd one out." She added that the drama remains true to the spirit of Pride and Prejudice while aiming to surprise and delight both new viewers and dedicated Austen fans.
With its compelling premise, stellar cast, and a beloved literary foundation, The Other Bennet Sister is poised to be a standout addition to the BBC's prestigious slate of period dramas when it arrives next year.
