‘The Larkins’ trailer: ‘Durrells’ creator’s ‘Darling Buds of May’ remake begins soon

ITV has released a lovely first trailer for the new version of The Darling Buds of May.

The Durrells creator Simon Nye has reimagined the classic TV series, which ran for three seasons in the early 1990s.

Based on the original novels by H.E. Bates, ITV’s brand new six-part comedy-drama is titled The Larkins.

Writer Simon Nye previously commented: “The novels are short, hilarious and magical. We will be expanding the Larkins’ world a little and can’t wait to immerse ourselves in this glorious countryside idyll.”

Set in the late 1950’s, the series tells the story of a working-class family led by the golden-hearted wheeler dealer Pop Larkin and his wife Ma, together with their six children, including the beautiful Mariette.

Watch the trailer:

 

Bradley Walsh (Doctor WhoLaw & Order: UK) and Joanna Scanlan (Notes on a Scandal) are starring as the new Pop and Ma.

Walsh said last year: “The warmth and affection that H. E Bates has generated through his books is so uplifting and I cannot wait to be part of the Larkin family. It’ll be a hoot!”

Sabrina Bartlett from Bridgerton is playing Mariette Larkin, alongside Grantchester actor Tok Stephen as Cedric ‘Charley’ Charlton.

The cast also includes Peter Davison (All Creatures Great and Small) as the Vicar, Robert Bathurst (Downton Abbey) as Johnny Delamere, Tony Gardner (Last Tango in Halifax) as Alec Norman, and Amelia Bullmore (Gentleman Jack) as Miss Edith Pilchester.

The official synopsis reads: “Fiercely loyal to each other and their community, each Larkin family member has a strong work ethic, alongside a disinterest in authority.

“In the idyllic and beautiful Kent countryside, known as the Garden of England, The Larkins have achieved a small patch of paradise where nothing is wasted and they enjoy life to the full.

“There’s an overwhelming sense of plenty in their lives and a lot of joy and raucous laughter, as Ma Larkin provides a seemingly endless supply of delicious, hearty meals. And no matter what time of day, The Larkins and their guests aren’t averse to enjoying the odd cocktail or two!”

The Larkins is set to premiere in October on ITV in the UK.

A broadcaster in the US hasn’t yet been confirmed, but we’d imagine that the show will air on PBS, which was the American home of The Durrells.

The complete original The Darling Buds of May series is available on DVD on Amazon.