Netflix is developing a 6-part limited series adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” featuring Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet, Jack Lowden as Mr. Darcy, and Olivia Colman as Mrs. Bennet. Written by Dolly Alderton and directed by Euros Lyn, the series aims for a faithful retelling of the classic story exploring themes of romance and societal expectations. The project highlights the importance of Austen’s novel in romantic comedy and aims to inspire new fans. Production will start in the U.K. later this year, with Alderton and Corrin also serving as executive producers.
EXCLUSIVE: Netflix has announced a new 6-part limited series inspired by the classic Jane Austen novel Pride and Prejudice, featuring Emma Corrin (Nosferatu, Black Mirror), Jack Lowden (Slow Horses, Benediction), and Olivia Colman (The Favourite, The Crown) as the beloved characters Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Darcy, and Mrs. Bennet, respectively. Filming is set to begin in the U.K. later this year.
The upcoming adaptation of Pride and Prejudice is penned by Dolly Alderton (Everything I Know About Love) and directed by Euros Lyn (Heartstopper). Lyn will also serve as an executive producer alongside Corrin, marking her EP debut, along with Laura Lankester, Will Johnston, and Louise Mutter from Lookout Point. Lisa Osborne will take on the role of producer.
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Austen’s second novel centers on Elizabeth Bennet, an unmarried woman who is the second of five daughters born to Mr. and Mrs. Bennet in Hertfordshire, near London. As only male heirs can inherit their home, the pressure mounts on the daughters to secure advantageous marriages to avoid losing everything. During her social outings, Elizabeth crosses paths with eligible bachelors like Mr. Darcy, who, despite his seemingly grumpy demeanor, is often misunderstood. The story explores themes of manners, social class, morality, education, and marriage within the British Regency’s landed gentry.
Netflix assures that this limited series will be “a faithful, classic adaptation of the novel,” as Alderton expresses her hope that audiences will cherish it while also inspiring a new generation to discover Austen’s work for themselves.
“Every generation has the chance to retell this remarkable story, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of it,” Alderton stated. “Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice lays the foundation for romantic comedy – revisiting its pages has been a joy, revealing both familiar and new perspectives for bringing this cherished book to life. With Euros Lyn at the helm and our fantastic cast, I cannot wait to reintroduce these hilarious and complex characters to those who already adore Pride and Prejudice and to new audiences who are yet to meet Lizzie and Mr. Darcy,” she added.
Corrin shared, “Portraying Elizabeth Bennet is a once-in-a-lifetime chance. Bringing this iconic character to life with Olivia and Jack, along with Dolly’s incredible scripts, is truly a tremendous honor. I look forward to a new generation falling in love with this timeless story again.”
Over the years, numerous adaptations of Pride and Prejudice, a much-loved tale over 200 years old, have been created. Notably, Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle starred as Elizabeth and Darcy in the 1995 BBC and A&E Networks drama, while the feature film starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen marks its 20th anniversary with an upcoming theater re-release on April 20.
Netflix previously adapted another Austen novel, Persuasion, in 2022, featuring Dakota Johnson in the lead role.
“We are thrilled to present this cherished British classic to our global audience. Pride and Prejudice is the quintessential romantic comedy. Dolly’s sharp intellect and immense passion, combined with her genuine affection for the Austen novel, translate into fresh insights while honoring what fans have cherished for generations. The exceptional cast led by Emma, Jack, and Olivia underscores that this treasured story is in the finest hands with Euros Lyn and the Lookout Point team at the helm,” commented Netflix’s Mona Qureshi.