Netflix is breathing new life into Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice with a brand-new limited series — and the cast lineup has already caught everyone’s attention. Oscar-winner Olivia Colman steps into the role of the dramatic and determined Mrs Bennet, joining Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet and Jack Lowden as Mr. Darcy.

Jack Lowden as Mr. Darcy | Credit: X

The series will be split into six episodes and aims to stay close to Austen’s original plot and language. But this isn’t just about preserving the past. Writer Dolly Alderton, who won the National Book Award for Everything I Know About Love, says the goal is to make the story feel fresh while keeping all the parts that fans love. “This story has everything — love, family, friendship, and sharp observations of society. It’s a dream to work with this cast and bring Austen’s world back for today’s audience,” she said.

This version will be directed by Euros Lyn, best known for Heartstopper, and is backed by a strong production team including Alderton herself. Filming is set to start in the UK this year.

Pride and Prejudice has been adapted many times over the years — and each version brought something unique. Here are four past takes that still stand out:

This Hallmark holiday film of 2018 flipped the story’s gender roles. Lacey Chabert plays Darcy, now a successful woman, who reconnects with a rival from high school during a holiday fundraiser. It strays far from the original but offers a cozy, modern romance.

this is my pride and prejudice mr darcy’s handflex scene pic.twitter.com/qxgjBRR36G

— yuni ⋆.˚ (@tinyacd) December 26, 2024

Another Hallmark twist of 2016. This version moves the story into the world of dog shows. Elizabeth and Darcy meet as a contestant and judge, with sparks flying amid misunderstandings. It’s a light and fun take that even won a Platinum Remi award at WorldFest Houston.

A wild mash-up of Austen and horror, this film throws zombies into 19th-century England. Despite being a parody of 2016, the chemistry between Lily James and Sam Riley keeps the romance alive — with sword fights replacing ballrooms.

Aishwarya Rai in Bride and Prejudice | Credit: X

Bollywood gave Austen’s tale a colorful makeover with music, dance, and an East-meets-West dynamic back in 2004. Aishwarya Rai leads the cast in a version that keeps the heart of the story while adding cultural layers and catchy songs.

Whether you’re an Austen loyalist or meeting Elizabeth and Darcy for the first time, Netflix’s new series promises to bring something special — with Olivia Colman leading the charge.

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