Samuel West, who plays Siegfried Farnon in the beloved Channel 5 drama All Creatures Great and Small, has shared an update on the upcoming Christmas special. On June 25, West revealed that filming for the festive episode concluded on what was the hottest June day in UK history.
Behind-the-Scenes Update
Posting on X (formerly Twitter), West shared two photographs featuring cast and crew, including Nicholas Ralph and Rachel Shenton as James and Helen Herriot. His caption read: "We wrapped today on the Christmas episode, on the hottest June day in this country's history, and as far away from December 25 as it is possible to be. Here's Chanel with the final slate, and the Herriot/Alderson family with all of them."
Fan Reactions
Fans have expressed excitement for the upcoming episodes. One commented: "I'm so looking forward to series 7. I also can't wait for series 2 of Sam and Ade go birding." Another said: "We are very, very grateful for the hard work in these extreme temperatures to bring us a wonderful series and another Christmas special!" A third remarked: "Thank you all, absolutely love ACGAS!!! We do appreciate you all working in hot conditions."
Series 7 and 8 Commissioned
Channel 5 has commissioned series seven and eight of the programme, each consisting of six hour-long episodes alongside festive specials. The forthcoming series, adapted from James Herriot's memoirs about his veterinary practice in the Yorkshire countryside, is anticipated to continue from the 2025 Christmas special.
Release Date Speculation
Given that a new series has landed annually since 2020, with Series 5 arriving in September and Series 1 in October, fresh episodes could materialise in autumn 2026. While Channel 5 is keeping storyline details under wraps, Greg Barnett, Commissioning Editor at 5, has hinted that there are "many new stories still to tell and more unforgettable adventures ahead." Barnett stated: "All Creatures Great and Small is a jewel in 5's drama crown and continues to delight viewers year after year. Its warmth, humour and heart, set against the beauty of Yorkshire, have made it a firm audience favourite. We're thrilled to extend its future with two more series, with many new stories still to tell and more unforgettable adventures ahead for our Skeldale family."
All Creatures Great and Small is available to stream on Channel 5.
