Enid Blyton drama ‘Malory Towers’ renewed by BBC for two more seasons

The BBC has confirmed the return of Malory Towers.

Based on the classic novels by English author Enid Blyton, the British-Canadian children’s TV drama series launched in the UK last spring.

Blyton’s original six books were published between 1946 and 1951, following the adventures of Darrell Rivers as she leaves home for the first time to attend a traditional all girls’ boarding school.

Set in 1940s England, the show has been adapted by Rachel Flowerday (Father Brown) and Sasha Hails (Versailles).

Malory Towers has been renewed for another two seasons of friendship and high jinks.

Season 2 and Season 3 will each consist of thirteen 25-minute episodes.

Amy Buscombe, BBC Children’s Commissioning Editor commented: “Malory Towers has been a huge hit with our audience, bringing fun and adventure to our screens at a time our young audience needed it most. We can’t wait for viewers to see what Darrell and the Malory girls get up to next!”

Executive producer Deirdre Brennan said: “We’ve had a phenomenal response to Malory Towers, both on our own Family Channel in Canada and from international partners.”

She added: “Even though Darrell Rivers was created seventy-five years ago, she is an inspiring character, full of spirited independence that keeps these stories relatable and relevant. We’re delighted that so many partners are joining us to share more of her experiences with young audiences worldwide.”

Watch the Season 1 trailer:

 

The official synopsis reads: “Set in post-war Britain on the sun-drenched cliffs of the Cornish coast, the series explores a nostalgic world of midnight feasts, lacrosse, pranks, a mystery ghost and lasting friendships.”

The first season starred Ella Bright as Darrell Rivers, Danya Griver as Gwendoline Mary Lacey, Zoey Siewert as Alicia Johns, and Sienna Arif-Knights as Sally Hope, with all the main cast expected to return.

All 26 new episodes will be filmed back-to-back in 2021 in Devon, England and Toronto, Canada.

Season 2 is set to premiere on CBBC in the UK and on the Family Channel in Canada later this year.

Enid Blyton’s Malory Towers books are available on Amazon.