Oh boy, do I have some impeccable news for the Jane Austen fans in the house!!! Netflix is currently developing a six-part limited series based on Pride and Prejudice, written by the one and only Dolly Alderton. As a character in an Austen novel might say, I am in such high spirits, I can scarcely believe it!
In a statement to Deadline, Netflix has confirmed that the limited series will star Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet, Jack Lowden as the gloriously wet-shirt wearing Mr. Darcy and Olivia Colman as Mrs. Bennet.
While Netflix promises that the adaptation will be faithful to the novel, it hopes that the series will help to inspire “a new generation to fall in love with Austen for the first time”.
Meanwhile, Alderton — who has written hit books such as Everything I Know About Love, Good Material and Ghosts — is beyond excited to make her mark on the retelling of one of the most beloved stories of English literature.
“Once in a generation, a group of people get to retell this wonderful story, and I feel very lucky that I get to be a part of it,” Alderton said, per Deadline.
“Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is the blueprint for romantic comedy — it has been a joy to delve back into its pages to find both familiar and fresh ways of bringing this beloved book to life. With Euros Lyn directing our stellar cast, I am so excited to reintroduce these hilarious and complicated characters to those who count Pride and Prejudice as their favourite book, and those who are yet to meet their Lizzie and Mr Darcy.”
The importance of playing such a beloved character is not lost on Corrin. As a versatile actor who has starred in a range of films, including Deadpool & Wolverine, Nosferatu and The Crown, they’re ready to pay homage to the cherished text whilst making it their own.
“Playing Elizabeth Bennet is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” they said.
“To be able to bring this iconic character to life, alongside Olivia and Jack, with Dolly’s phenomenal scripts, is truly the greatest honour. I can’t wait for a new generation to fall in love with this story all over again.”
The Pride and Prejudice series isn’t Netflix’s first foray into Austen. Back in 2022, Dakota Johnson starred in an adaptation of Austen’s Persuasion.
While some fans adored it, others tore it to shreds, but I guess that’s just part of the game when you’re adapting a story that is so special to so many people.
Although Netflix hasn’t revealed potential release dates for the project just yet, production is reportedly set to take place in the United Kingdom in late 2025. And while filming hasn’t kicked off yet, sources have revealed that the search for a white-button down shirt which looks impeccable both wet and dry is already underway.
Great news for all!!!!
