The BBC has announced that they'll be airing a three part series adapted from Louisa May Alcott's, 'Little Women'. The novel, which was originally published in two parts in 1868 and 1869 respectively, tells the story of four sisters as they transition from young ladies into adults. The girls are raised by their mother whilst their father is away fighting in the American Civil War. The series will be directed by Vanessa Caswill who worked on 'My Mad Fat Diary', and produced by Heidi Thomas, the mind behind 'Call the Midwife'.
This isn't the first time the novel has been adapted for the small screen. Most famously, in 1994 a film adaptation was produced. The adaptation featured talents such as Winona Ryder, Kirsten Dunst, Clare Danes & Susan Sarandon.
With regard to the series, Heidi Thomas is clearly very enthusiastic to be involved, having mentioned to Radio Times, "'Little Women' is one of the most loved novels in the English language, and with good reason. Its humanity, humour and tenderness never date, and as a study of love, grief and growing up it has no equal. There could be no better time to revisit the story of a family striving for happiness in an uncertain world, and I am thrilled to be bringing the March girls to a new generation of viewers".
The full cast
Marmee March, the girls' mother will be played by Emily Watson, whilst 'The Good Wife's' Dylan Baker plays Mr March. Oscar winning Angela Lansbury, most famous for 'Murder She Wrote' will play Aunt March. Rounding up the family are Willa Fitzgerald ('Scream'), as the eldest daughter, Megan, newcomer Maya Hawke will play Jo. Annes Elwy and Kathryn Newton (Big Little Lies) will play the remaining sisters, Beth and Amy.
Harry Potter's, Michael Gambon will play Mr Laurence, neighbour to the March family and Laurie Laurence will be portrayed by Jonah Hauer King. Julian Morris from 'Pretty Little Liars' is to play, John Brooke, Laurie's tutor, whilst Mark Stanley plays Professor Bhaer.
The BBC haven't let on to much about the new series, although what we do know is that it will be made up of 3 parts. We presume the series will air sometime around Christmas.
