Praise the adaptation gods: Pride and Prejudice is the latest icon to receive a modern reboot. First penned by Jane Austen in the 19th century, the classic novel charts issues of class, inequality and, of course, love. The beloved story has received the on-screen treatment many times in recent decades, including Keira Knightly and Mathew Mcfadyen’s turn as Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy back in 2005, and the 1995 BBC miniseries which starred Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle.
Naturally, when a story is so adored, fans might feel a sense of apprehension at a new interpretation. But according to Deadline, the modern take is in more than capable hands. The outlet reported that Dolly Alderton, who penned Everything I Know About Love, has been charged with writing the script. As for casting, no actors have been signed on to the project, with roles like Elizabeth, Darcy, Charles Bingley, Jane Bennet, and Lady Catherine de Bourgh all up for grabs. But that hasn't stopped the internet — and us — from speculating. If you're already dreaming of seeing your fave take on one of these iconic characters, you've come to the right place. Read on for six actors we think would be right at home in the latest Pride and Prejudice adaptation.
Elizabeth Bennet
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Early reports suggested that Daisy Edgar-Jones might be awarded the role of Elizabeth Bennet - a rumour we can certainly get on board with. In case you've somehow managed to dodge the storyline, Pride and Prejudice follows Elizabeth, the daughter of a country gentleman, and her turbulent relationship with Mr Darcy. Sound familiar? We're already well acquainted with Edgar Jones' work as a romantic heroine, in particular in relationships that are less than smooth sailing. In 2020, she gave us the equal-parts heart-warming and gut-wrenching portrayal of Marianne, in the series adaptation of Sally Rooney's Normal People, and in 2022, she played the fiercely independent Kya in Where The Crawdad's Sing.
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There's also rumours that Emma Corrin could nab the lead part. Having already proved their deftness in period dramas like The Crown and the West End productions of Virginia Wolf's Orlando, sources say that Corrin could be Dolly Alderton's pick for Elizabeth Bennet. Speaking to The Sun, a source said: "Dolly [...] thinks Emma would be perfect to play Elizabeth. The Good Material author is said to be a ‘big fan’ of Emma’s work, specifically their turn as Princess Diana in The Crown, for which the actor won a Golden Globe award." We can't help but agree.
Mr Darcy
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There's a high probability we'll fall in love with the actor that takes on Mr Darcy, so perhaps no casting decision has quite as much importance. At the top of our list? Paul Mescal. Not only has he demonstrated his chemistry with Elizabeth Bennet-frontrunner Edgar Jones, but he's also mastered that broody, mysteriousness that we've come to love of Mr Darcy's through history. Could this be Mescal's first foray into the world of period romance? We certainly hope so.
Jane Bennet
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The eldest of the Bennet sisters, Jane is Elizabeth's closest friend and confidant. In contrast to Elizabeth's cynical realism when it comes to love and marriage, Jane is decidedly more of a romantic. Who better to play this key role than Phoebe Dynevor? The actress has already cut her teeth in a period drama, as Daphne in Bridgerton — a character who is similarly iedalistic about relationships.
Charles Bingley
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Charles Bingley is the son of a wealthy tradesman and friend of Mr Darcy, who falls in love with Jane Bennet. While their romance is marred by a fleeting misunderstanding, the two eventually work out their differences and are married happily by the novel's end. We'd love to see Harris Dickinson break into the world of period romances with this role. It might be slightly different to his most recent part in A24's steamy Babygirl, but at least we know he's got the leading love interest thing down pat.
Catherine 'Kitty' Bennet
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Another Bridgerton alum, we've got our eye on Florence Hunt for the role of Kitty Bennet. The youngest of the five sisters, Kitty is the archetypal youngest child, feeling her emotions deeply and often. Of course, it's the kind of character Hunt has had plenty of practice for, having portrayed the youngest Bridgerton child for three seasons (and counting).
Lady Catherine de Bourgh
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If you ask us, Lady Catherine de Bourgh was practically written for Rosamund Pike. While the actress was actually cast as Jane Bennet in the 2005 version of Pride and Prejudice, we'd love to see her return to the franchise as the haughty Lady Catherine. After all, she did such a good job as Saltburn's Elspeth Catton...
