Downton Abbey and True Blood Stars Ignite Passion and Betrayal in BBC’s Stunning New Period Drama — The Forsytes Is the Autumn Event You Can’t Miss!
This autumn, viewers are in for a spectacular treat as The Forsytes, a lavish six-part period drama, arrives on Channel 5, promising to capture the hearts of fans who crave sweeping family sagas filled with intrigue, ambition, and romance. Featuring a stellar cast that includes stars from Downton Abbey and True Blood, this new adaptation of John Galsworthy’s celebrated novels is shaping up to be the must-watch event of the season.
A Timeless Tale Reborn
The Forsytes explores the complicated lives of four generations of an upper-class London family in the late 1800s. At the heart of the story are gripping themes of desire, power, and betrayal, woven into a rich tapestry of social expectations and personal rebellion. As the older Forsytes cling fiercely to tradition, the younger members challenge the rigid family rules — creating explosive tensions that threaten to unravel their legacy.
Written by acclaimed screenwriter Debbie Horsfield, known for her work on the BBC’s hit Poldark, the series offers a fresh and vibrant take on Galsworthy’s Nobel Prize-winning saga. Fans of period dramas will recognize the lush costumes, opulent settings, and emotionally charged storytelling, reminiscent of the finest moments in Downton Abbey and The Crown, but with an edge of modern sensibility.
Star-Studded Cast Brings Characters to Life
Leading the ensemble is BAFTA winner Francesca Annis as the formidable matriarch Ann Forsyte, alongside Stephen Moyer (True Blood) portraying her eldest son, Jolyon Sr., the head of the family’s stockbroking empire. Danny Griffin brings depth and complexity as Jolyon Jr., whose bohemian spirit clashes with the family’s conservative values.
Other standout performances include Tuppence Middleton (Downton Abbey: A New Era) as the ambitious Frances, Eleanor Tomlinson (One Day) as Louisa Byrne, and Jack Davenport (The Morning Show) as the competitive James Forsyte. The cast also features fresh faces like Millie Gibson (Doctor Who) and Joshua Orpin (Titans), adding youthful energy to the gripping family drama.
Why This Drama Is the One to Watch
For those longing to fill the gap between their favorite period dramas, The Forsytes promises a mix of lush production design and complex characters whose loyalties and desires will keep viewers glued to the screen. The series skillfully balances sweeping romance with intense personal conflicts, delivering moments of heartbreak, scandal, and unexpected tenderness.
Social media is already buzzing with anticipation, with fans praising the gorgeous new images and the promise of a story that feels both classic and timely. “OH IM INTRIGUED. GIVE ME PRETTY PERIOD DRAMAS AND I’M IN,” shared one excited viewer, while another declared, “Cannot wait for this. I love a good period drama.”
When and Where to Watch
The Forsytes premieres this autumn on Channel 5, with all six episodes set to be released weekly. It’s the perfect series to dive into for anyone who loves richly told stories of family, power, and passion.
Prepare yourself for a period drama event that promises to stir emotions, spark conversations, and leave you begging for more. This is The Forsytes — a timeless story reborn for a new generation.
