Monarch of the Glen, the beloved BBC drama that captivated audiences in the early 2000s, is making a comeback after a 20-year hiatus. Channel 5 has announced a "fresh reimagining" of the series, which originally aired from 2000 to 2005, spanning seven seasons and a Hogmanay special.
A New Chapter for Glenbogle
The original series starred the late Richard Briers as the cantankerous laird Hector MacDonald, alongside Susan Hampshire as his wife Molly, Alastair Mackenzie as their son Archie, and Dawn Steele as his wife Lexie. Julian Fellowes, later creator of Downton Abbey, also featured as Lord Kilwillie. In later seasons, Lloyd Owen joined as Archie's half-brother Paul Bowman, with Tom Baker and Martin Compston in supporting roles.
The new six-part series is being produced by Ecosse Films, the original production company, and promises a "rich, romantic and humorous family saga rooted in legacy, love and survival." The storyline follows high-flying London lawyer Isla Campbell, who returns to her family's crumbling Highland estate for her estranged father's funeral. Expecting a brief stay, she instead discovers she has inherited a million-pound debt, a bank closing in, and a brother determined to hold onto their ancestral home. The siblings must find a way to save the estate before time runs out.
Creative Team and Production
Series creator Jeremy Brock, known for A Very Royal Scandal, The Last King of Scotland, and Mrs Brown, will executive produce. He expressed his excitement: "When I was offered the chance to re-imagine Monarch of the Glen, I leapt at it. I’m hugely excited by the opportunity to tell a story of family life and finding your place in our hectic world." Robert Bernstein, head of drama at Ecosse Films, added: "Monarch of the Glen holds a very special place in our hearts, and we are absolutely thrilled to be bringing this beloved show to the next generation of viewers."
Sebastian Cardwell, deputy chief content officer at Channel 5, said: "Monarch of the Glen is a much-loved series, and this reimagining brings it back to life for a new generation. It’s a rich family saga with heart and humour at its core." The series will also air on Masterpiece in the US. Currently in pre-production, no cast has been contracted yet. Filming is scheduled for later this year in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
The show originally attracted up to 8 million viewers at its peak and was set against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish Highlands. The news of the reboot comes just a week after the death of actor Alexander Morton, who played gamekeeper Golly Mackenzie in all 64 episodes. Morton died of heart failure at the age of 81.
Fans can look forward to a mix of familiar elements and new characters, with the series aiming to capture the warmth and eccentricities of Highland life. The reboot is expected to air on Channel 5 in the near future.
