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Returning: Sanditon

Jane Austen drama, previously axed in 2019, is back in the first of two new seasons.

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A new season of UK period drama Sanditon begins next week on BBC First and Binge.

The series, based on Jane Austen’s final, unfinished novel was developed by writer Andrew Davies, and after S1 it was axed in 2019.

But PBS’ Masterpiece and BritBox UK threw a lifeline following a fan outpouring, for not just 1 but 2 more seasons.

Series two picks up nine months later as the town is growing in popularity and heroine Charlotte Heywood (Rose Williams) returns to the picturesque seaside resort, determined as ever to live a life less ordinary, as she takes up the role of governess to the wards of Alexander Colbourne (Ben Lloyd-Hughes, Industry). And, in her last summer season before turning 21, Georgiana Lambe (Crystal Clarke), keen to forge her own identity, gets up to mischief in the name of love…but will she run the risk of being lonelier than ever before?

The Parkers are back, as Tom (Kris Marshall) strives to rebuild Sanditon. But there are many unforeseen issues awaiting him, while the secrets and lies of the dysfunctional Denhams continue to rock the foundations of the sunny seaside town. Plus, the second series promises new romances, friendships, and challenges for the residents as the Army make Sanditon their new base, led by the charming Colonel Lennox (Tom Weston-Jones, Grace).

New characters this season include Alexander Colbourne, a mysterious resident with a complex family history, who is in stark contrast to self-assured war hero Colonel Francis Lennox, his rival for Charlotte’s affections.

Charlotte is joined by her spirited younger sister, Alison Heywood (Rosie Graham, Outlander), who comes to Sanditon to pursue her own romantic dream. Alison is soon acquainted with the handsome and charming Captain William Carter (Maxim Ays, Still So Awkward). Other intriguing newcomers include Captain Declan Fraser (Frank Blake, Normal People), a courageous character (if a little rough around the edges), and the striking and flamboyant Charles Lockhart (Alexander Vlahos, Versailles), a Byronic artist who arrives to paint portraits of Sanditon’s fashionable and wealthy residents.

8.30pm Thursday March 24 on BBC First and Binge.

One Response

  1. It’s just one of many shows that have failed on FTA, in a time of falling viewers and advertising rates, that streamers and niche broadcasters have taken a punt on because they need more content.

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