Rachel Shenton, who plays Helen Alderson in the beloved Channel 5 series All Creatures Great and Small, has spoken about the pressures of portraying such a significant character. The show, adapted from James Herriot's stories, follows veterinarians in the Yorkshire Dales during the late 1930s.
Shenton told Radio Times that she initially did not realise how globally loved the world of James Herriot was, which increased her determination to perfect the role. Meeting James Herriot's real-life children, James Alexander and Rosemary Page, heightened her sense of responsibility. 'Here are two people who will be watching their parents on TV,' she said, adding that she wanted to capture the essence of their mother.
The actress also revealed that she relates to Helen's 'genuine joy' in small things, her mischievous nature, and relaxed outlook. Series five saw James return from RAF training and reunite with Helen and their son Jimmy. The upcoming sixth series, set to air from September 25, follows the characters as Victory in Europe is announced, with James balancing veterinary duties and family life.
New guest stars for the series include Lucy-Jo Hudson, Chris Gascoyne, Gaia Wise, Jonathan Hyde, and Philip Martin Brown. All Creatures Great and Small returns to Channel 5 on Thursday, September 25 at 9pm.
