Channel 5's new Victorian period drama The Forsytes, based on John Galsworthy's classic Forsyte Saga novels, has already been renewed for two more seasons after its first series aired in 2025. The six-episode series, set in late-Victorian England, chronicles the lives of an extraordinarily affluent upper-class family of stockbrokers across multiple generations.
Plot and Conflict
The dynasty is shaped by a poisonous and loveless union between Soames and Irene Forsyte, where the husband regards his wife as merely his possession. Following Irene's desperate liaison with an architect, it ignites a decades-spanning generational conflict and numerous additional forbidden liaisons. As a fresh generation of youngsters fall for the wrong individuals, it resurrects considerable past trauma for the family as they witness history repeating itself.
Adaptation and Reception
John Galsworthy's The Forsyte Saga comprised three compelling novels published from the early 1900s through to the 1920s, and the story has been adapted multiple times. This version was created and written by Debbie Horsfield, drawing inspiration from the Galsworthy novels while incorporating fresh and contemporary elements. Some viewers struggled with the series departing from the original, while others welcomed the change.
One fan wrote on IMDb: "While the pacing can feel slow at times, it ultimately allows for deeper character development and richer storytelling. Overall, it's a compelling and emotionally engaging series that is definitely worth watching." Another reviewer added: "Not necessarily aligned with the original but an INCREDIBLE remake. I love the characters. I love the actors that were chosen. The CHEMISTRY and the moments that have been created are everything!! I was enthralled and binged the entire 1st season."
Cast and Comparisons
The 2025 programme features an ensemble cast including Francesca Annis, Jack Davenport, Millie Gibson, Danny Griffin, Tuppence Middleton, and Eleanor Tomlinson, whom period drama fans will recognise from her memorable stint in Poldark. While many viewers have drawn unfavourable comparisons between the new show and the 2002 production starring Damian Lewis—which is widely regarded as being more faithful to the original novels—the freshly released series has already secured both a second and third season.
One reviewer noted: "It looks expensive, and for a Channel 5 show that's a nice surprise. Bridgertonesque with the narrator, beautiful actors and gowns, but it's not necessarily a hindrance. Adds to the enjoyment of watching." Another added: "It's difficult when a show has such a big history and people obviously love the original material, but it's unfair for it to get scathing reviews. It's just not true."
Availability
Series one of The Forsytes is available to stream now on Channel 5 as viewers anticipate more episodes.
