The BBC has commissioned a three-part Christmas special of The Other Bennet Sister following the resounding success of its first series. The period drama, adapted from Janice Hadlow's popular novel, centers on Mary Bennet (Ella Bruccoleri), the overlooked middle sister from Pride and Prejudice. The first season concluded with Mary accepting a marriage proposal from Tom Hayward (Dónal Finn), setting the stage for the festive special.
Record-Breaking Success
The Other Bennet Sister became the most successful debut drama across all platforms and streaming services in the UK since May 2025, attracting 7.3 million viewers within its first 28 days. Jane Tranter, Executive Producer, said: "We always hoped audiences would fall in love with Mary Bennet's story, but the response to The Other Bennet Sister has exceeded even our most optimistic expectations."
Cast and Fan Reactions
Ella Bruccoleri is confirmed to reprise her role as Mary, alongside other familiar faces from the series. Following the announcement, fans flooded social media with one recurring request: confirmation that Dónal Finn will return as Tom Hayward. One fan wrote on Instagram: "Best news ever! Please confirm Dónal being back as Tom." Another commented: "@donal.finn will be in it, right? RIGHT?!" A third added: "I need confirmation that @donal.finn is part of this pleaseeeee." Given the Christmas special is set after Mary and Tom's wedding, it appears highly likely the Irish actor will return. Finn has also gained attention for his role as James Moriarty in Prime Video's Young Sherlock.
Plot and Episode Length
While the exact storyline remains under wraps, Jane Tranter hinted: "These Christmas specials give us the chance to spend a little more time with characters audiences have taken to their hearts, and to explore what happens after the wedding bells fade and real life begins." The narrative will likely follow the couple's challenges as they adjust to married life, including navigating in-law relationships and possibly starting a family.
Contrary to fan hopes for feature-length episodes, the BBC confirmed the specials will maintain the original format, with each of the three episodes running 30 minutes. Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, said: "It's been incredibly exciting to see Mary Bennet cause such a sensation in 2026, and we could not be happier to announce this new three-part Christmas gift to her millions of fans. Marriage was just the beginning for the no-longer-so-overlooked Bennet sister."
Where to Watch
The Christmas specials will air exclusively in the UK on BBC iPlayer and BBC One. Viewers in the US and Canada can watch on BritBox. The specials are set to broadcast on BBC One during the holiday season.
