A “lavish” period drama adapted from a best-selling novel has unveiled a first glimpse of its second series.
The Forsytes broadcast on Channel 5 last year, reimagining the BBC version which aired between 1967 and 1969, drawing from John Galsworthy’s beloved book collection.
The cast features Coronation Street’s Millie Gibson, Home and Away actor Joshua Orpin, One Day’s Eleanor Tomlinson, This Life actor Jack Davenport, and Downton Abbey actress Tuppence Middleton, alongside Francesca Annis and Jamie Flatters.
Situated in the late Victorian period, the passionate historical drama chronicles family feuds and relationships exploding as long-buried secrets surface.
The opening series, spanning six episodes, witnessed Soames Forsyte (Joshua) clashing with his cousin Jolyon (Danny) over control of the family business, while Danny’s step-daughter June (Justine Emma Moore) discovers her independence and defies social conventions, and Soames pursues Millie’s character as she evolves into an ambitious wife, reports the Mirror.
The second series trailer has revealed what lies ahead, showing Soames plotting to protect the family’s standing while his wife Irene pledges to abandon her aspirations in an effort to become a better wife.
Further secrets are poised to surface, following Jolyon’s departure from his wife to reunite with his first love Louisa, having learnt she bore two of his children from their previous affair.
Outlander’s Richard Rankin joins Sarah Alexander and Nia Ashi in the ensemble, with Soames hinting that “a new era dawns”.
The second series trailer has revealed what lies ahead, showing Soames plotting to protect the family’s standing while his wife Irene pledges to abandon her aspirations in an effort to become a better wife.
Further secrets are poised to surface, following Jolyon’s departure from his wife to reunite with his first love Louisa, having learnt she bore two of his children from their previous affair.
Outlander’s Richard Rankin joins Sarah Alexander and Nia Ashi in the ensemble, with Soames hinting that “a new era dawns”.
The debut series left audiences captivated, with one viewer asking: “Why is no-one talking about this show? It’s perfect for Brigderton lovers. Dare I say even better?”
Another remarked: “My new obsession – love a good old period drama, especially at this time of year and this one is right up my street!”
Deadline has since revealed that The Forsytes has already secured a third series commission. Production was reported last month to be commencing shortly across the UK and Europe.
Ahead of the inaugural series launching, screenwriter Debbie Horsfield called it an “honour to be asked to write a bold new reimagining of Galsworthy’s epic saga”.
She elaborated: “Our show is in part a prequel to the events of the first book, but also an opportunity to expand the world and place the women of the family centre stage. It’s a love letter to the original story while offering an exciting new perspective.”
Susanne Simpson, Executive Producer of Masterpiece, commented: “This sweeping, romantic drama portrays how duty binds a family together until it conflicts with matters of the heart. Debbie Horsfield’s inspired scripts will be realised by an exceptional cast and supported by a lavish production.”
