This New BBC Gem With 95% on RT Shows the Bennet Sisters in a Way We've Never Seen Before

Of all Jane Austen's works, Pride and Prejudice is particularly popular – the love story between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy has been adapted into dozens of movies and series.

However, until now, no one has dared to give a voice to the character who has always remained in the shadows: Mary Bennet. The Other Bennet Sister casts its main character not as the witty Lizzie, but as her middle sister, Mary.

What Is 'The Other Bennet Sister' About?

From childhood, Mary Bennet learned a harsh lesson from her mother: the secret to happiness is marriage. But how does one find their place among four vibrant sisters? Jane captivates with her beauty, Lizzie with her wit, Kitty with her good nature, and Lydia with her vivacity.

And what about Mary? She loves reading, which irritates her mother. The first two episodes follow the plot of Pride and Prejudice from a different perspective – we see the familiar twists and turns through Mary's eyes.

With the third episode, the original text is left behind and a new chapter begins. Mary must discover who she is and what she wants as her sisters leave home one by one.

Mary Bennet Is the Perfect Heroine for a Discussion About the Fate of Women in the 19th Century

In Austen's novel, the middle sister is briefly described – she appears in the drawing room with a book and doesn't share her sisters' enthusiasm. However, it is precisely this ambiguity that makes her a perfect subject for a new interpretation.

In The Other Bennet Sister, Mary is a woman struggling on several fronts: with a cold mother who barely conceals her disappointment, an unwelcoming society that condemns women without striking appearances to celibacy, and herself – perhaps her greatest critic.

Ella Bruccoleri masterfully balances timidity and self-satisfaction, blushing and laughing alternately, and emerges as both an intellectual icon and a deeply insecure young woman.

'The Other Bennet Sister' Is a Treat for Those Tired of the Same Old Adaptations

Last year, the world celebrated Austen's 250th birthday, and the celebrations continue in 2026. The Other Bennet Sister updates the original novel while honoring the legacy of one of history's wittiest Englishwomen.

The Other Bennet Sister is woven with irony, social critique, and heartfelt lyricism. The screenwriters are keeping the suspense alive: will Mary's story be limited to her search for a husband, or will she discover a love beyond romance?

Let's hope the creators seize the opportunity to portray a woman who finds happiness in her own self-determination, contrary to the expectations of others.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'The Other Bennet Sister'?

• The Other Bennet Sister has 89% from critics and 95% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the series has a score of 7.8/10.

Where to Watch 'The Other Bennet Sister'?

The Other Bennet Sister is available to stream on Prime Video.