‘All Creatures Great and Small’ TV revival will ’embrace fun and nostalgia’

It was announced last month that All Creatures Great and Small is returning to our screens!

Masterpiece on PBS and Channel 5 have commissioned a brand new series from the makers of Wolf Hall and Howards End, based on author James Herriot’s much-loved collection of stories.

First published in 1970, Herriot’s stories chronicle the heartwarming and humorous adventures of a young country vet in the Yorkshire Dales in the 1930s.

The BBC’s original TV series aired for 90 episodes between 1978 and 1990.

Executive producer Colin Callender has commented: “Revisiting James Herriot’s beloved stories is an immense privilege and we are honored that  [his] family have entrusted us with his legacy. It is a responsibility we take very seriously.”

He added: “At a time when the country feels more divided than ever, Herriot’s glorious books remind us how to connect and belong again.

“The series will embrace the fun and the nostalgia of revisiting the England of the past, while celebrating Herriot’s values that, despite all our current upheaval, still underpin British life today.”

Channel 5’s Sebastian Cardwell also said: “James Herriot has a special place in the heart of the public and the commission of this iconic drama series, against the stunning backdrop of the Yorkshire Dales, is set to bring joy to a new army of TV viewers.

“The original books affectionately captured a unique slice of British life; in challenging times, we hope the charming and heart-warming stories of community and compassion will resonate with new audiences.”

Marking the 50th anniversary of the first book’s original publication, the new All Creatures Great and Small is set to air in 2020 on Channel 5 in the UK and on PBS in the USA.

Six episodes and a Christmas special will begin filming on location in Yorkshire, England later this year.

The original All Creatures Great and Small is available on DVD on Amazon.