Period drama perfect for The Other Bennet Sister fans streaming on Channel 4 now
The period drama is widely considered a Pride and Prejudice sequel is now streaming on Channel 4
Death Comes to Pemberley is streaming on Channel 4 (Image: publicity picture)
If you’re a devoted Pride and Prejudice fan on the hunt for your next must-watch, there’s a spin-off which may well have slipped under your radar.
The three-part BBC drama is a 2013 adaptation of P. D. James’ 2011 bestselling novel of the same name, which continues Austen’s beloved story six years after the original’s events, but with a compelling twist.
In June 1803, Mr and Mrs Darcy are hosting a grand ball at their home, Pemberley Manor, when chaos erupts with the unexpected arrival of Lydia Wickham, who claims her husband George has quarrelled with his travelling companion Captain Denny, resulting in the latter’s death.
Death Comes to Pemberley then trades Austen’s trademark romance for murder, as a gripping whodunnit plot unravels involving dark secrets, family loyalties, and a dramatic courtroom trial, along with the profound impact on Darcy and Elizabeth’s marriage, reports Wales Online.
The series has drawn widespread comparisons to Agatha Christie’s work, yet firmly rooted within Austen’s cherished literary world.
Reviewers mostly praise the adaptation’s casting choices (Image: BBC/Origin Pictures)
The stellar cast is a considerable draw. Matthew Rhys and Anna Maxwell Martin portray Darcy and Elizabeth, with Matthew Goode as Wickham and a young Jenna Coleman as Lydia.
Further highlights include Eleanor Tomlinson as Georgiana Darcy, James Norton as her suitor Henry Alveston, and Penelope Keith as Lady Catherine de Bourgh.
There’s also a familiar Pride and Prejudice face amongst the cast – Tom Ward, who portrays Colonel Fitzwilliam, appeared in a minor role in the iconic 1995 adaptation.
Death Comes to Pemberley pulled in nearly 8 million viewers for its opening episode (Image: BBC/Origin Pictures)
The initial broadcast of Death Comes to Pemberley attracted nearly 8million viewers for its debut episode over Christmas 2013.
Critics at the time even raved about its “perfect” Christmas TV material.
Online commentators have been equally enthusiastic. On IMDb, one critic described it as “a substantial addition to Pride and Prejudice,” commending how respectfully it honours Austen’s original work.
A second reviewer deemed it essential viewing and declared it “definitely worth a rewatch.”
Another critic went even further, awarding it a full 9/10 and characterising it as “a truly thrilling mystery that pays tribute to Miss Austen.”
Most assessments share one common thread – lauding the cast. Some acknowledge they adore the original films and programmes but maintain the actors who portrayed Elizabeth and Mr Darcy in this adaptation served the characters admirably.
Death Comes to Pemberley is streaming now on Channel 4.
