The Forsytes has already been renewed for a second series
The final instalment of “lavish” period drama, The Forsytes, airs tonight.
This adaptation of John Galsworthy’s beloved book series made its return to Channel 5 last month, following the original BBC broadcast of The Forsyte Saga from 1967 to 1969.
Stepping into the shoes of Susan Hampshire, Kenneth More and Eric Porter from the original series, the remake boasts a star-studded cast including Coronation Street’s Millie Gibson, Home and Away’s Joshua Orpin, One Day’s Eleanor Tomlinson, This Life’s Jack Davenport, and Downton Abbey’s Tuppence Middleton, alongside Francesca Annis and Jamie Flatters.
Set in the late Victorian era, this sizzling drama explores family tensions and marriages on the brink as long-held secrets are revealed.
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The six-part series, which concludes with tonight’s episode already available for streaming on Channel 5, began with Soames Forsyte (played by Joshua) clashing with his cousin Jolyon (Danny) over control of the family business.
Meanwhile, Danny’s step-daughter June (Justine Emma Moore) seeks independence and challenges societal norms, while Soames courts Millie’s character, who evolves into an ambitious wife, reports the Express.
The synopsis previously teased: “Sticklers for tradition and status, the older Forsytes prize duty and reputation above all else, whilst the younger members rail against the rigidity of family expectations.
“The question of who will take over the family firm puts Soames Forsyte and his cousin Jolyon in conflict just as their lives are turned upside down by the arrival of two remarkable women.
“Ultimately each Forsyte family member grapples with the same dilemma – is it better to be ruled by the head or the heart?”
Fans have been left hooked on the series, which has already been renewed for a second installment, with one writing: “Why is no-one talking about this show? It’s perfect for Brigderton lovers. Dare I say even better?”
Another said: “My new obsession – love a good old period drama, especially at this time of year & this one is right up my street!”
Someone else wrote: “I’m kinda digging The Forsytes! I’ve been missing some good old fashioned British period hot mess. It’s been a minute since a series gave me an “And I oop” moment, and the end of the premiere delivered.”
Screenwriter Debbie Horsfield previously described it as an “honour to be asked to write a bold new reimagining of Galsworthy’s epic saga”.
She continued: “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, added: “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.”
The Forsytes airs on Channel 5 tonight at 9pm.
