Channel 5 Acquires The Forsytes.
Channel 5 has secured the UK distribution rights for the PBS Masterpiece’s grand adaptation of John Galsworthy’s The Forsyte Saga. This version features Doctor Who’s Millie Gibson and Francesca Annis, who plays the strong-willed family matriarch, Ann.
Written by the acclaimed British writer Debbie Horsfield (Poldark), the narrative delves into the complex lives of a wealthy, upper-class brokerage family through four generations, set amidst the sweeping changes of the late Victorian era. The series also stars Stephen Moyer from True Blood and Sexy Beast, alongside Jack Davenport of The Morning Show, and Millie Gibson.
This marks the third television adaptation of The Forsyte Saga, following earlier versions broadcast by the BBC in 1967 and later by ITV in 2002. Produced by Mammoth Screen, which is supported by ITV Studios, this adaptation is notably backed by an American network, with Channel 5 joining the project at a subsequent stage. Furthermore, Channel 5 collaborates with PBS Masterpiece on the popular reboot of All Creatures Great and Small.
The announcement was made by Ben Frow, Channel 5’s director of content, during a media event in London where Channel 5 and its streaming service My5 were unified under the new brand name, 5.
At the same event, Frow introduced a new drama titled The Trial (w/t), featuring Saoirse-Monica Jackson from Derry Girls, Ben Miles of The Crown, and Claire Skinner. The Trial is set in a disturbingly believable near-future where parents could be legally accountable for their children’s crimes, a concept that probes deep ethical questions about justice and governmental overreach.
Channel 5 is expanding its portfolio to include single dramas, promising a groundbreaking year with over 100 hours of drama. Among the eagerly anticipated shows are The Au Pair featuring David Suchet, the intense thriller Catch You Later with Jason Watkins and Robson Green, and the newest season of All Creatures.
Holly Willoughby Stalking Documentary
Channel 5 has also greenlit a frightening documentary detailing the planned attack on television presenter Holly Willoughby. The 90-minute special, Stalking Holly, covers the profound impact on the former This Morning host resulting from Gavin Plumb’s criminal plans, which led to his 16-year prison sentence for attempting to kidnap, assault, and kill her. The incident deeply affected Willoughby, prompting her departure from This Morning.
Holly’s co-host from This Morning, Phillip Schofield, who faced his own controversies, premiered a Channel 5 show last year called Phillip Schofield: Cast Away.
Frow emphasized the channel’s dedication to original, UK-produced content, stating, “There’s a vast array of new content available for streaming, but at the heart of 5 is our commitment to original UK public service content, including our award-winning factual series and more original drama hours than ever before. With a comprehensive national marketing campaign, our biggest yet, we aim to attract viewers who haven’t watched us before to check out our diverse range of engaging shows.”
Daniel Hayes is a business journalist with a focus on market trends, startups, and corporate strategies.
His sharp analysis and investigative reports make complex financial topics accessible to all readers.
