Ryan Sampson, known for his role as Mr William Collins in BBC's The Other Bennet Sister, has announced he is working on a television adaptation of the cult classic film Kinky Boots. The actor and writer revealed the project while speaking to Digital Spy, confirming that a TV series is in development.
From Film to Series
The original Kinky Boots film, released in 2005, was inspired by the true story of Steve Pateman, a Northampton shoe factory owner who saved his family business by producing footwear for drag queens. The film featured Chiwetel Ejiofor as Lola, a role later played on stage by Johannes Radebe, Matt Henry, and Billy Porter.
Sampson expressed his long-standing admiration for the film, stating: "We are working on a Kinky Boots TV series. I'm writing it at the moment. As far as whether I'd star in it, we'll see how it goes. I'm pitching it to different channels at the moment. I love the movie. It's great. It's really good. It has really stuck with me since I saw it. With a TV series, you could go into more depth with the story."
The Other Bennet Sister Returns
Fans of The Other Bennet Sister can also look forward to seeing Sampson again, as the BBC has announced a three-part Christmas special for the festive season. Ella Bruccoleri is confirmed to reprise her role, alongside other familiar faces, potentially including Sampson's Mr Collins and his wife Charlotte Lucas, played by Anna Fenton-Garvey.
Sampson's performance as Mr Collins has drawn praise from co-stars. Richard E. Grant, who plays Mr Bennet, commented: "Ryan Sampson's Mr Collins is innately funny - he's absolutely brilliant." Ruth Jones, who portrays Mrs Bennet, added: "Any scene with Ryan Sampson. He's a comedy genius and makes me want to be silly."
The Other Bennet Sister is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
