Ryan Sampson Takes on the Role of Mr Collins in BBC's The Other Bennet Sister
The BBC's latest period drama, The Other Bennet Sister, has arrived, delighting fans of Jane Austen's classic Pride and Prejudice. This fresh reimagining shifts the spotlight to Mary Bennet, the often-overlooked middle sister, offering a new perspective on the beloved story. Filmed in locations across Bristol and Wales, the series boasts a star-studded cast that brings this Regency-era tale to life.
A Stellar Cast Brings the Bennet Family to Life
Leading the ensemble is Ella Bruccoleri from Call the Midwife, who portrays Mary Bennet. She is joined by Richard E. Grant and Ruth Jones of Gavin & Stacey fame, playing Mr and Mrs Bennet. Indira Varma from The Capture and Richard Coyle from Heads of State take on the roles of Mr and Mrs Gardiner. Potential suitors are played by Laurie Davidson as Mr Ryder and Dónal Finn as Mr Hayward.
In a key supporting role, Ryan Sampson steps into the shoes of Mr Collins, the clergyman and distant cousin of Mr Bennet. This character has been portrayed by notable actors in past adaptations, including David Bamber in the 1995 film, Tom Hollander in the 2005 version, Guy Henry in 2008's Lost in Austen, and Matt Smith in 2016.
Praise for Ryan Sampson's Performance
Co-stars have heaped praise on Sampson's portrayal. Richard E. Grant remarked, "Ryan Sampson’s Mr Collins is innately funny - he’s absolutely brilliant." Ruth Jones added, "Any scene with Ryan Sampson. He’s a comedy genius and makes me want to be silly." Fans have echoed this enthusiasm on social media, with one commenting on his "inspired casting" and another calling it "the most perfect portrayal of Mr Collins ever."
Ryan Sampson's Career Highlights
Ryan Sampson, an actor from South Yorkshire, is widely recognised for his role as Tommo in the popular Sky series Brassic, alongside Joseph Gilgun and Michelle Keegan. His other notable credits include:
- Grumio in Plebs (2013-2019)
- Boz in The Frankenstein Chronicles
- Shussi in The Work Experience
- Various roles in Horrible Histories, Waiting, and Doctor Who
He got his first major break playing Alex in After You've Gone and has since appeared in shows like Up the Women and Undercover. More recently, Sampson starred as Glen in Mr Bigstuff with Danny Dyer, a series he also created and wrote.
Plot and Availability of The Other Bennet Sister
The series follows Mary Bennet as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, stepping out from her sisters' shadows. Her quest for identity and purpose takes her from Meryton to Regency London and the Lake District, intertwining with an epic love story along the way. The official synopsis highlights themes of independence, self-love, and reinvention.
The Other Bennet Sister continues to air on BBC One and is available for streaming on BBC iPlayer, offering viewers a fresh take on a timeless classic.
