The Forsyte Saga (2003) now available to stream on Netflix

Created by ITV and based on the novels by Nobel Laureate John Galsworthy, the ten-episode series ran for two seasons from 2002 to 2003. The series was already adapted for cinema in 1949, and for the small screen in 1967, when the BBC aired a 26-part serial with Kenneth More. A release date has not yet been confirmed for the Channel 5 adaptation, but it can be expected later this year, or in early 2026.

What is it about?

The drama charts the ups and downs of three generations of the prominent Forsyte family over the period from the 1870s to the 1930s. It centres mainly on two of the Forsytes – Soames and Jolyon.

Soames is a possessive man, consumed by wealth, who is unhappily married to Irene, a woman in love with another. In contrast, his cousin Jolyon is an artistic and empathetic individual who defies family convention by leaving his wife for their children’s governess, and consequently becomes estranged from the family.

Who is in the cast?

The main cast includes Damian Lewis (Band of Brothers) as Soames Forsyte, Gina McKee (Line of Duty) as Irene Forsyte, Rupert Graves (Sherlock) as Young Jolyon Forsyte, Corin Redgrave as Old Jolyon Forsyte, Ioan Gruffudd as Philip Bosinney, Amanda Root as Winifred Forsyte Dartie, Ben Miles as Montague Dartie, Ann Bell as Aunt Hester, Barbara Flynn as Emily Forsyte, and Gillian Kearney as June Forsyte.

Where is it available to watch?

The Forsyte Saga is currently available to stream on ITVX in the UK, and on Netflix in the UK, Ireland and Australia.