The BBC and PBS Masterpiece have a knack for delivering compelling mystery series that span a range of styles, from gruesome murders to quaint village crimes. This year, however, they are venturing into a new territory—the literary mystery. Their focus will be on the intriguing question surrounding the poignant actions of Cassandra Austen, who is believed to have destroyed nearly all of the letters written by her famous sister, Jane Austen.
This lingering mystery has puzzled literary scholars and historians alike for generations. Was Cassandra merely seeking to protect her sister’s delicate reputation amidst a judgmental high-society landscape, or did she have deeper, personal motivations? These questions will be addressed in the upcoming period drama, Miss Austen, inspired by Gill Hornby’s novel of the same name.
When is Miss Austen set to Premiere?
Excitingly, Miss Austen is officially set to premiere in the United States on Sunday, May 4, 2025, as confirmed by PBS Masterpiece. Viewers in the UK will have an earlier opportunity to enjoy the four-part miniseries, with its debut on BBC One and BBC iPlayer scheduled for February 2, 2025. This premiere coincides perfectly with the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, promising a celebratory moment for devoted fans of her work.
Meet the Cast of Miss Austen
At the forefront of the cast is the esteemed Keeley Hawes, renowned for her performances in series such as Line of Duty, The Durrells in Corfu, and Bodyguard. In Miss Austen, she takes on the role of Cassandra Austen. Joining her is Rose Leslie, famed for her work in Game of Thrones, who portrays Isabella Fowle, the niece of Cassandra’s late fiancé. Isabella’s circumstances prompt Cassandra to embark on her journey of letter destruction.
The series will feature a narrative that includes flashbacks, allowing audiences to witness the younger versions of Cassandra and her sister Jane.Synnøve Karlsen, known for Last Night in Soho, will depict young Cassandra, while Patsy Ferran as the budding writer Jane provides a glimpse into their formative years.
Completing the talented ensemble are Phyllis Logan (Downton Abbey), Max Irons (The Wife), Alfred Enoch (How to Get Away with Murder), Calam Lynch (Bridgerton), and Liv Hill (Elizabeth Is Missing).Additional cast members include Jessica Hynes (Life After Life), Mirren Mack (The Witcher: Blood Origin), and Kevin McNally (The Crown).
What Can We Expect from the Plot of Miss Austen?
The narrative of Miss Austen promises to weave together themes of love, societal pressures, unfulfilled aspirations, and familial strife—elements that resonate through Jane Austen’s iconic works such as Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, and Sense and Sensibility. However, at the heart of the story lies a profound focus on sisterhood, illuminating Cassandra’s dedication to Catherine’s literary ambitions and how their lives intertwined to foster creativity and growth.
The official synopsis released by the BBC states:
“The drama begins in 1830, many years after Jane has died. Cassandra rushes to visit Isabella, the niece of her long-dead fiancé, who is about to lose her home following her father’s death. Cassandra is ostensibly there to help Isabella, but her real motive is to find a hidden bundle of private letters which, in the wrong hands, she fears could destroy Jane’s reputation.
On discovering them, Cassandra is overwhelmed as she is transported back to her youth. In flashback, we meet Young Cassy and Jane as they navigate the romantic infatuations, family feuds and dashed hopes which shaped their lives, and laid the foundations for Jane’s unforgettable stories. Cassandra’s re-evaluation of her past eventually leads her to find a way to guide Isabella towards the path of true happiness.”
According to the BBC, the portrayal of Cassandra promises to make her a character as captivating as any of Jane Austen’s heroines. It certainly seems due time to delve into the life of Jane’s sister.
Is There a Trailer Available for Miss Austen?
A teaser trailer for Miss Austen has been released, offering viewers a tantalizing glimpse into the world of romance and sisterly bonds that awaits. Watch it to experience the allure of this upcoming period drama that has captured the attention of Austen admirers everywhere.
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