Jamie Demetriou could be the secret standout star of Netflix's upcoming Pride and Prejudice adaptation, according to early footage shown at the Edinburgh TV Festival. The six-episode series, written by Dolly Alderton, is due to premiere this autumn, more than 20 years after the 2005 film starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen.
Netflix reveals new footage at Edinburgh TV Festival
At the festival, which marks its 50th anniversary this week, Netflix offered a sneak peek at the series, revealing more footage of Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet and Jack Lowden as Mr Darcy, as well as a first glimpse of Jamie Demetriou as Mr Collins.
The Stath Lets Flats actor had big shoes to fill, following Tom Hollander's memorable portrayal in the 2005 movie. Hollander's Mr Collins, with his admiration for the Bennets' boiled potatoes, became a cult classic quote, appearing on T-shirts, cards and tote bags on Etsy.
Jamie's performance praised in early clip
The snippet shown to festival attendees made toes curl with discomfort, suggesting Demetriou has nailed Mr Collins' mortifying manners. While much attention is placed on the leads, particularly Jack Lowden as a frontrunner to play James Bond, Demetriou's performance could earn him similar adulation.
Earlier this year, the 38-year-old admitted he was 'surprised' when he was cast, telling NME: 'There's so many ways to skin that character. And that challenge freaked me out. I was really, really, genuinely surprised when I got the part.' He added: 'I really do feel like I've taken part in something that doesn't resemble anything I've done before.'
Fans celebrate the casting
Fans have also celebrated his casting, with one Reddit user writing: 'Jamie is perfect for Mr Collins. PERFECT.' Another remarked: 'Straight up made me want to watch this now, I love the Demetriou siblings!' while a third added: 'Oh my god I am such a big fan of his and I KNOW he will do it right.'
Pride and Prejudice is due to premiere on Netflix this year.
