News Beat
All Creatures Great and Small renewed for two more series
The announcement means the period favourite, inspired by the works of Yorkshire vet and author James Herriot, will continue its tales of life at Skeldale House through Series 7 and Series 8, alongside two additional Christmas specials.
The show’s official Facebook page shared a joyful message from the stars, writing: “The tale’s not through. The All Creatures cast has something special to share with you! Series 7 (and 8) are on their way.”
The message was shared alongside a video of the cast writing on a piece of paper and passing it to one another, before it’s revealed that it’s an update on a new series of the popular programme.
The update sparked huge excitement among viewers who have followed the journeys of James, Helen, Siegfried, Tristan and Mrs Hall across six warmly received series.
Channel 5’s Commissioning Editor Greg Barnett said the renewal reflected the drama’s impact.
“All Creatures Great and Small is a jewel in 5’s drama crown and continues to delight viewers year after year,” he said.
“Its warmth, humour and heart, set against the beauty of Yorkshire, have made it a firm audience favourite.
“We’re thrilled to extend its future with two more series, with many new stories still to tell and more unforgettable adventures ahead for our Skeldale family.”
Producers Melissa Gallant and Sharon Moran of Playground added that the outpouring of love from viewers had played a huge role in the show’s longevity.
“We frequently receive letters from viewers about how the show has brought joy, comfort and relief in challenging times,” they said.
“We’re thrilled to be continuing the All Creatures journey with Channel 5, Masterpiece on PBS and All3Media International into series 7 and 8.”
Since its debut, the drama has become Channel 5’s most successful series, drawing in up to 14 million viewers worldwide across its first five seasons and transforming filming locations such as Grassington and Broughton Hall into visitor hotspots.
Returning favourites Nicholas Ralph (James), Rachel Shenton (Helen), Samuel West (Siegfried), Callum Woodhouse (Tristan), and Anna Madeley (Mrs Hall) are all expected to reprise their roles.
Recent newcomer Gaia Wise, who joined as Charlotte Beauvoir and quickly became a fan favourite, is also set to continue her blossoming storyline with Tristan.
Before production begins on the next chapters, viewers won’t have to wait long for more Darrowby charm.
This year’s highly anticipated Christmas special, airing on Christmas Eve at 9pm, will transport fans back to Christmas 1945, the first festive season after the end of the Second World War.
James finds himself unexpectedly overseeing the village Nativity play, Siegfried revisits Mrs Stokes’s farm where troublesome goat Hilda is up to her old tricks, and Mrs Hall leads the Skeldale darts team in a hotly contested competition at The Drovers Arms.
A behind-the-scenes documentary will air an hour earlier at 8pm, giving fans a rare glimpse into production secrets and the stunning locations that bring Darrowby to life.
