Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice has been adapted so many times—from classic Hollywood to zombie mayhem—that it's easy to assume there's nothing new to say. But BritBox's The Other Bennet Sister proves otherwise. Premiering May 6 on the underrated streaming service, this series doesn't just rehash the familiar story; it gives the spotlight to Mary, the middle Bennet sister who usually fades into the wallpaper. And the result is a period romance that feels both reverent and refreshingly modern.
What Is 'The Other Bennet Sister' About?
Based on Janice Hadlow's novel, the show follows Mary (Ella Bruccoleri), the introverted, often-ignored Bennet sibling. While her sisters chase love and social status, Mary struggles to be seen—until she decides to take control of her own narrative. After the events of Pride and Prejudice, she journeys to London, where her aunt and uncle, the Gardiners (Richard Coyle and Indira Varma), help her discover a world of possibility. Along the way, she meets Tom Hayward (Dónal Finn), a kind and awkward friend of the Gardiners, and the free-spirited Mr. Ryder (Laurie Davidson). Familiar faces like Mr. Collins (Ryan Sampson) and Caroline Bingley (Tanya Reynolds) also return, but this time they're seen through Mary's eyes.
A Cast That Makes the Story Soar
The show's greatest strength is its cast. Bruccoleri's Mary is a revelation—shy, clumsy, and wonderfully relatable, but also bold in her quiet way. She doesn't undergo a magical makeover or suddenly become the life of the ball. Instead, she learns to embrace herself, quirks and all. It's rare to see a wallflower character treated with such dignity, especially in a romantic period drama where she's not just comic relief but the actual heroine.
Dónal Finn's Tom Hayward is the perfect Austen leading man: bumbling, witty, and full of longing. Fans of Matthew Macfadyen's Mr. Darcy will find a lot to love here, including his own version of the hand flex. Finn, who impressed in The Wheel of Time and Young Sherlock, finally gets the recognition he deserves. The supporting cast is equally strong: Coyle and Varma are delightful as Mary's fairy godparents, and Tanya Reynolds steals scenes as the insufferable Caroline Bingley. Even Mr. Collins gets a sympathetic reimagining—no longer just a punchline, but a misunderstood man seeking connection.
A Bold Take on the Bennet Family
Not everyone will love how The Other Bennet Sister reimagines the Bennet household. In Austen's novel, the family is embarrassing but ultimately loving. Here, the dynamics are darker: Mary is truly isolated, with a mother who dismisses her and a father who's lovingly indifferent. It's a risky choice, but it pays off by making Mary's journey toward self-acceptance feel earned. For those who crave more Regency romance, this series is a gem—and for anyone who's ever felt like the overlooked sibling, it's a triumph.
If you're looking for a period drama that balances heart, humor, and a fresh perspective, The Other Bennet Sister is a must-watch. It's the kind of show that reminds you why Austen's world still captivates us—and why Mary Bennet deserved her own story all along.
