Jane Austen lovers rejoice! The BBC has announced the commission of The Other Bennet Sister, a ten-part drama series adapted from Janice Hadlow’s acclaimed novel of the same name. Produced by Cardiff-based indie studio Bad Wolf, known for hits such as His Dark Materials and Industry, the series will air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One. It is penned by Sarah Quintrell (The Power, Ellen), marking her first drama series for television.
This new series offers a fresh perspective on one of Jane Austen’s most overlooked characters, Mary Bennet, the often-forgotten middle sister from Pride and Prejudice. Unlike her sisters, who embody more traditional period drama heroines, Mary is portrayed as awkward, anxious, and preachy—traits that have left her overshadowed by her more vibrant siblings. The show takes a contemporary approach to this character, exploring what it’s like to feel out of place and emphasizing that while many dream of being Elizabeth Bennet, most people can identify more with Mary.
The story follows Mary as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, moving from her family’s home in Meryton to the soirees of Regency London and the scenic Lake District. In search of independence, romance, and ultimately self-acceptance, The Other Bennet Sister promises to deliver an unexpected love story that reimagines the possibilities for Austen’s most unassuming character.
Screenwriter Sarah Quintrell expressed her excitement for the project, saying, “I’m thrilled to be telling the story of Mary… It’s a joy to be adapting Janice Hadlow’s brilliant take on such a beloved classic with the team at Bad Wolf and to have found our home at the BBC. I grew up watching the BBC’s wonderful Austen adaptations, and it’s the stuff every writer dreams of.”
Jane Tranter, founder of Bad Wolf, praised the project, noting that Austen’s characters, particularly Mary, are “smart, subtly subversive, and groundbreaking,” and that Sarah’s scripts will bring this underdog character vividly to life.
Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the BBC’s history with Austen adaptations. “It’s incredibly exciting to return to Jane Austen’s irresistible world,” she said, adding that Quintrell’s adaptation is a “true underdog story” packed with “heart, wit, and charm.”
The ten-episode series is set to be produced by Bad Wolf, with executive producers including Kate Crowther, Becca Kinder, and Jane Tranter from Bad Wolf, Rebecca Ferguson for the BBC, Sarah Quintrell, and Janice Hadlow. Development of the series has been overseen by Bad Wolf’s Director of Content, Dan McCulloch.
With its unique take on a familiar classic, The Other Bennet Sister promises to captivate Austen fans and newcomers alike when it hits screens in the near future.
