Netflix's Pride and Prejudice announcement sparks outrage as fans 'so disappointed'

The beloved classic, Pride and Prejudice, is set to be reimagined as a six-part limited series for Netflix, but the announcement has been met with criticism from fans. The series, which promises to remain faithful to the original novel, will be scripted by Dolly Alderton and directed by Euros Lyn, with production scheduled to commence in the UK in 2025.

Alderton aims to infuse new energy into Jane Austen's timeless tale, appealing to both long-time devotees and newcomers to Austen's work. However, fans have expressed discontent with the casting choices. Emma Corrin will play Elizabeth Bennet, Jack Lowden will portray Mr Darcy, and Olivia Colman will take on the role of Mrs Bennet.

Upon the cast announcement on Netflix UK's X account, fans voiced their concerns. One individual commented: "To be honest this isn't really doing it for me at all, I love Pride and Prejudice, but 1. We don't really need another adaptation, and 2. The casting feels wrong as well. You could do something original rather than rehashing a story that has multiple adaptations."

Another fan added: "Disappointing casting for Elizabeth & Mr Darcy. I expected better."

Some viewers also questioned the necessity of the project. One disgruntled individual voiced their exasperation: "I am so sick of rehashes of the same things. There are hundreds of thousands of new books being published all the time. Can't you put money into stuff that hasn't been done before?"

Another added to the chorus of criticism: "Please choose another novel .. I'm a huge Austen fan but really there are a million different books you could adapt."

Conversely, Dolly Alderton, taking charge as both writer and executive producer, shared her delight in partaking in the new adaptation: "Once in a generation, a group of people get to retell this wonderful story and I feel very lucky that I get to be a part of it. Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice is the blueprint for romantic comedy – it has been a joy to delve back into its pages to find both familiar and fresh ways of bringing this beloved book to life.

"With Euros Lyn at the helm, directing our stellar cast, I am so excited to reintroduce these hilarious and complicated characters to those who count Pride and Prejudice as their favourite book, and those who are yet to meet their Lizzie and Mr Darcy."

Emma Corrin, assuming the dual role of star and executive producer, revealed her views on stepping into Elizabeth Bennet's shoes: "Playing Elizabeth Bennet is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. To be able to bring this iconic character to life, alongside Olivia and Jack, with Dolly's phenomenal scripts, is truly the greatest honour. I can't wait for a new generation to fall in love with this story all over again."

Netflix's Mona Qureshi couldn't contain her enthusiasm for the upcoming adaptation, remarking: "We are delighted to be sharing this beloved British classic with our global audience. Pride and Prejudice is the ultimate romantic comedy. Dolly's fierce intelligence and enormous heart, twinned with her genuine love of the Austen novel means she is able to bring new insights, whilst celebrating all that the generations of fans hold so dear.

"The calibre of a cast led by Emma, Jack and Olivia is testament to this precious story being in the best possible hands with Euros Lyn and the team at Lookout Point at the helm."