In a time when period dramas are experiencing a revival, with shows like Bridgerton and Poldark captivating audiences, Jane Austen’s works continue to hold a special place in the hearts of viewers. Austen’s adaptations stand out, showcasing timeless romance and sharp wit, making her a dominant figure in this genre. However, with so many adaptations to choose from, newcomers may find it daunting to select where to begin. Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 TV adaptations of Jane Austen’s works, ranked by their ratings on Rotten Tomatoes or IMDb, ensuring a solid starting point for fans and novices alike.
The Top 10 Jane Austen Adaptations
10. Mansfield Park (2007)
Billie Piper, fresh off her stint in Doctor Who, brings an invigorated energy to the somewhat understated heroine of Austen’s Mansfield Park. This ITV adaptation adds a touch of Regency exuberance to a story often seen as moralistic. With Blake Ritson portraying the awkward yet endearing Edmund, and Hayley Atwell as the charmingly complicated Mary, this adaptation strikes a delightful balance between humor and romance.
Rotten Tomatoes ratin53%
(ImagITV/PBS)
8. Northanger Abbey (2007)
In this underrated ITV adaptation, Felicity Jones shines as Catherine Morland, a heroine with a penchant for the Gothic. Opposite her, a young Carey Mulligan plays a friend embroiled in controversy, while JJ Feild emerges as a captivating romantic lead. Wildly imaginative, the steamy dream sequences invite comparisons to Twilight, albeit with an Austen twist.
Rotten Tomatoes ratin79%
(ImagAlbum/Alamy)
6. Death Comes to Pemberley (2013)
This enthralling three-part murder mystery picks up from the beloved tale of Pride and Prejudice through the lens of P.D. James’s novel. With Anna Maxwell Martin, Matthew Rhys, and Jenna Coleman in the leading roles, this adaptation gripped audiences, making it ideal for a cozy Christmas binge-watch.
Rotten Tomatoes ratin82%
(ImagBBC/PBS)
As these adaptations garner fresh acclaim, they also bridge generations of viewers who find comfort in Austen’s enduring narratives. Whether you’re returning for another viewing or making your first acquaintance with her stories, these adaptations promise to engage and entertain, showcasing why Jane Austen remains a luminous figure in literary and cinematic history.