It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a fan in possession of a Jane Austen novel, must be in want of more book-to-screen adaptations. Gifting fans with a brand new period drama, the BBC has answered our prayers and released new photos from Miss Austen, starring Line of Duty's Keeley Hawes.
Slated for release in 2025, the four-part drama has been adapted from Gill Hornby's best-selling novel, which imagines the life of literary mystery, Cassandra Austen – Jane Austen's beloved older sister, who famously burned her letters.
Billed as a "heart-breaking story of sisterly love," the series may not be a direct adaptation of a Jane Austen book, but Cassandra is described as being just as captivating as any other Austen heroine.
Rounding out the cast, Synnøve Karlsen (Last Night in Soho, Clique), Patsy Ferran (Living, Hot Milk), Max Irons (Condor, The Wife), Alfred Enoch (How to Get Away with Murder, Foundation), Calam Lynch (Bridgerton, Sweetpea), Liv Hill (The Serpent Queen, Elizabeth Is Missing), Jessica Hynes (Life After Life, Years and Years), and Mirren Mack (The Witcher: Blood Origin, The Nest) also star.
According to the official synopsis: "The drama begins in 1830, many years after Jane has died. Cassandra (Keeley Hawes) rushes to visit Isabella (Rose Leslie), the niece of her long-dead fiancé, who is about to lose her home following her father's death.
"Cassandra is ostensibly there to help Isabella, but her real motive is to find a hidden bundle of private letters which, in the wrong hands, she fears could destroy Jane's reputation. On discovering them, Cassandra is overwhelmed as she is transported back to her youth.
"In flashbacks, we meet Young Cassy (Synnøve Karlsen) and Jane (Patsy Ferran) as they navigate the romantic infatuations, family feuds and dashed hopes which shaped their lives, and laid the foundations for Jane's unforgettable stories.
"Cassandra's re-evaluation of her past eventually leads her to realise how blind she has been to the real cause of Isabella's heartache and distress. Finding a way to guide Isabella towards true happiness, Cassandra is finally able to understand and celebrate the sacrifices she chose to make for her brilliant sister, Jane."
Production for the series wrapped earlier this year, and was directed by BAFTA award-winning filmmaker Aisling Walsh (Maudie, Elizabeth is Missing). When the drama officially debuts next year, it will mark 250 years since Jane Austen's birth.
Exploring the Life of Cassandra Austen
The series, based on the novel by Gill Hornby, explores the life of Cassandra Austen, a figure often overshadowed by her famous sister Jane. The drama delves into the mystery surrounding Cassandra's burning of Jane's letters, offering a unique perspective on the sisters' relationship and the inspiration behind Jane's novels.
A Star-Studded Cast Brings the Story to Life
The cast of Miss Austen is a who's who of British television talent. Hawes, known for her roles in Bodyguard and Line of Duty, brings a gravitas to the role of Cassandra. Leslie, beloved for her role in Game of Thrones, adds further star power as Isabella, the niece of Cassandra's former fiancé.
The supporting cast includes a host of recognizable faces, ensuring the drama will draw viewers in with its star power.
A Look Back at Jane Austen's World
Miss Austen promises to offer a fresh take on the world of Jane Austen, exploring the complexities of family relationships, the pressures of society, and the enduring power of sisterly love. The drama is set to captivate audiences with its period detail and emotionally resonant storyline, making it a must-watch for fans of Austen adaptations and period dramas alike.
A New Perspective on a Familiar World
While the series may not be a direct adaptation of one of Jane Austen's novels, it offers a unique and compelling perspective on her life and work through the lens of her sister Cassandra. The drama promises to be a fascinating and insightful exploration of a familiar world, offering audiences a new appreciation for the power of sisterly love and the lasting legacy of Jane Austen.
A Legacy That Endures
Miss Austen is a reminder that the legacy of Jane Austen continues to captivate and inspire audiences today. The series, set to air on PBS in May 2025, promises to be a worthy addition to the canon of Austen adaptations. The drama's focus on Cassandra Austen, a figure often overshadowed by her sister, offers a new perspective on the famous author and the world she created.
A World of Austen Awaits
With its star-studded cast, compelling storyline, and stunning period detail, Miss Austen is set to be a must-watch for fans of period dramas and Austen adaptations. The series promises to be a captivating and insightful exploration of the world of Jane Austen, offering a fresh perspective on a familiar world and a reminder of the enduring legacy of the beloved author.
