Netflix is diving back into classic literature with a new six-part limited series adaptation of Jane Austen's beloved novel, Pride and Prejudice. The streaming giant has announced that Emma Corrin, known for their role in The Crown, will take on the iconic character of Elizabeth Bennet, while Jack Lowden, recognized for his performance in Slow Horses, will portray the brooding Mr. Darcy. Oscar-winning actress Olivia Colman, who has also starred in The Crown and The Favourite, will play the role of Mrs. Bennet. Production for this highly anticipated series is set to begin later this year in the U.K.
The adaptation is being penned by Dolly Alderton, the author of the memoir Everything I Know About Love, and directed by Euros Lyn, known for his work on Heartstopper. According to Netflix, the series promises to be a "faithful, classic adaptation" of Austen's novel, which has captivated readers for over two centuries with its sharp social commentary and timeless love story.
Alderton expressed her excitement about the project, stating, "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. 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." She added that the novel is rich with opportunities to explore themes of love, family, and society, all while maintaining Austen's signature observational wit.
Emma Corrin, who will also serve as an executive producer on the series, shared their enthusiasm for portraying Elizabeth Bennet: "Playing Elizabeth Bennet is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. To be able to bring this iconic character to life, alongside Olivia and Jack, with Dolly's phenomenal scripts, is truly the greatest honor. I can't wait for a new generation to fall in love with this story all over again."
Colman, who has become a staple in Netflix productions, is expected to bring depth and warmth to the character of Mrs. Bennet, Elizabeth's mother who is determined to see her daughters married well. The casting of Lowden as Mr. Darcy adds a fresh perspective to the character, who is often portrayed as a gruff but ultimately romantic figure.
This new adaptation comes at a time when interest in Austen's works is experiencing a resurgence, particularly among younger audiences. Netflix previously adapted Austen's novel Persuasion in 2022, starring Dakota Johnson, and now aims to introduce Pride and Prejudice to a new generation.
Netflix's director of U.K. content, Mona Qureshi, stated, "We are delighted to be sharing this beloved British classic with our global audience. Pride and Prejudice is the ultimate romantic comedy. Dolly's fierce intelligence and enormous heart, twinned with her genuine love of the Austen novel, means she is able to bring new insights while celebrating all that the generations of fans hold so dear."
The adaptation is expected to resonate with both long-time fans of the novel and newcomers alike. Alderton's approach to the material aims to balance the original's charm with a contemporary perspective, ensuring that the essence of Austen's work remains intact.
As the series gears up for production, fans of the novel can also look forward to the re-release of the 2005 film adaptation starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen, which is set to hit theaters on April 20, 2025. This timely re-release coincides with the announcement of the Netflix series, further fueling interest in Austen's enduring legacy.
Overall, this new adaptation of Pride and Prejudice is positioned to be a significant addition to Netflix's lineup of literary adaptations, promising to deliver a fresh and engaging take on a classic story that has stood the test of time.
