The Forsytes Period Drama: Your Ultimate Guide to the Exciting New Victorian Series

Costume drama fans, you know that feeling. You just finished a fantastic season or movie, maybe the final Downton Abbey film wrapped up, or you are waiting for more Bridgerton or The Gilded Age. Your watch list feels a little empty. But don't worry. Masterpiece PBS is bringing something new to look forward to: The Forsytes. This show comes with a strong period drama background, certain to grab fans' attention.

Discovering the Rich History and Premise of The Forsytes Period Drama

The name Forsyte might sound familiar, and that's not a coincidence. This new series draws inspiration from Nobel Prize-winning author John Galsworthy's celebrated series of novels. Masterpiece PBS previously presented a beloved series, The Forsyte Saga, in the early 2000s. That show starred Damian Lewis, Rupert Graves, and Gina McKee.

However, The Forsytes is not a remake. This upcoming series will serve as a prequel to the 2002 show. It takes place before the happenings of Galsworthy's books. So, even if you watched the earlier series, this new production offers a fresh starting point.

Debbie Horsfield, the writer who also gave us 2015's much-loved Poldark, is the mind behind The Forsytes. The story follows the lives, loves, trials, and triumphs of a wealthy Victorian era stockbroking family. Generations of this family find themselves pulled between tradition and self-sacrifice versus personal happiness and the desire for love. It's a grand scale family saga, set against the backdrop of rapidly changing late-Victorian London in the 1880s.

Understanding the Core Conflicts and Familial Struggles

The show's central themes include desire, ambition, and betrayal. These emotions simmer at the core of The Forsytes. The drama will explore how family members navigate their complex world. One main struggle focuses on Soames Forsyte and his cousin Jolyon. They clash over who will take control of the family firm. Beyond this family business struggle, the series also features a forbidden love between an heir and a former lady's maid. We also see a daughter who simply wants to have "a mind of my own." These storylines hint at a passionate and emotional journey for viewers.

Gathering the Stars: The Impressive Cast of The Forsytes

This series boasts an ensemble cast. Many actors are well-known to fans of British drama and other popular shows, ensuring strong performances. Get ready to see some familiar faces:

• Millie Gibson, known for her role in Doctor Who, appears as Irene Heron. Irene is Soames's wife.
• Joshua Orpin, recognized from Home and Away and Titans, plays Soames Forsyte, one of the central figures in the family firm conflict.
• Danny Griffin, who starred in Fate: The Winx Saga, steps into the role of Jolyon Forsyte Jr.
• Stephen Moyer, from True Blood, portrays Jolyon Forsyte Sr.
• Downton Abbey: A New Era star Tuppence Middleton plays Frances Forsyte.
• Eleanor Tomlinson, famous for Poldark, One Day, and The Couple Next Door, takes on the role of Louisa Byrne, Jolyon Jr.'s first love.
• Jack Davenport, seen in The Morning Show, appears as James Forsyte.
• Francesca Annis, from Lillie, plays the family matriarch, Ann.
• Josette Simon OBE, an actor in Anatomy of a Scandal, plays Mrs. Ellen Parker Barrington.
• Also joining the cast are Jamie Flatters and Owen Igiehon.
• Fans of Miss Scarlet will recognize Tom Durant-Pritchard.
• Adding a special touch, Susan Hampshire will also appear. She won an Emmy for her work in the 1967 version of The Forsyte Saga.

This collection of acting talent promises a quality viewing experience, bringing the detailed characters of Galsworthy's world to vibrant life.

When and Where You Can Immerse Yourself in the World of The Forsytes

The anticipation for The Forsytes is high, and viewers in different regions have specific dates to mark on their calendars:

• For British viewers, the series will launch on Monday 20th October at 9pm on Channel 5. New episodes will air weekly, allowing audiences to follow the family's story over time.
• In the United States, fans will need to wait a little longer. Masterpiece PBS will premiere The Forsytes in early 2026.

The series recently showed its first trailer, giving a promising look at the drama to come. A number of new first look images also offered teasers of the characters and their world. These visuals feature Millie Gibson and Joshua Orpin as Irene Heron and Soames Forsyte. Other images display Josette Simon as Ellen Parker Barrington and Tuppence Middleton as Frances Forsyte, giving audiences a taste of the show's visual style.

Why the Excitement is Building for The Forsytes Even Before It Premieres

There's even more reason for fans to get excited about The Forsytes. A second season was already confirmed back in June, despite the first series not having aired yet. This early commitment to more episodes speaks volumes about the confidence in this show.

Paul Testar, Commissioning Editor Drama at Channel 5, commented on this decision. He stated that they are excited production has started on the second series. Testar explained this early commitment to a second chapter shows the strength of the stories and characters. He believes the audience will enjoy them. He looks forward to sharing even more of this rich series.

Damien Timmer, CCO and Founder of Mammoth Screen, added to the enthusiasm. He shared that they cannot wait for the world to see series one of The Forsytes. He expressed pleasure in getting ahead and starting on the second series. Timmer praised Debbie Horsfield's compelling scripts and the growing cast. This early renewal is a rare vote of confidence and suggests the show has truly captivating material.

Executive producers for the series include Debbie Horsfield, Meenu Gaur, Michael Ray, and Damien Timmer for Mammoth Screen. Susanne Simpson represents Masterpiece as an executive producer. The show is produced with ITV Studios, managing international distribution. PBS Distribution handles rights for North America.

Final Thoughts and What's Next for the Forsyte Family's Story

With its compelling premise, the writing talent of Debbie Horsfield, and a fantastic cast, The Forsytes promises to be a standout addition to the period drama scene. Whether you are a long-time admirer of Galsworthy's novels or simply looking for your next historical drama obsession, this series has something to offer.

Prepare to step into 1880s London and follow the intricate lives of a wealthy family facing personal and societal challenges. Keep an eye out for more updates as the US premiere date in early 2026 approaches. British viewers can catch the first episode much sooner, on October 20th, 2025. It is going to be quite the journey with the Forsyte family!