Step aside Downton Abbey, The Forsytes’ “grander” second series is about to enter a class of its own The opulent period drama The Forsytes, created by Poldark writer Debbie Horsfield, is set to return with its second series, promising even greater grandeur and drama than its debut. The show follows the lives of the upper-class Forsyte family, a wealthy British stockbroker dynasty in 1880s London, spanning four generations. Known for its lavish costumes, intricate family dynamics, and sweeping settings, the series is a reimagining of John Galsworthy’s Nobel Prize-winning The Forsyte Saga. The first series, which premiered in October 2025, introduced viewers to the Forsytes’ complex relationships, including fierce rivalries and romantic entanglements. Central to the plot was the conflict between Soames Forsyte (Joshua Orpin) and his cousin Jolyon (Danny Griffin), who clashed over control of the family business, Forsyte & Co. Their lives were also deeply influenced by two remarkable women: Irene Heron (Millie Gibson) for Soames and Louisa (Eleanor Tomlinson), Jolyon’s old flame. The series explored themes of duty, reputation, and the tension between family expectations and personal desires. The second series, set to air in 2026, will expand on these conflicts, introducing new scandals, ambitions, and shifting loyalties within the family. The official synopsis describes the series as a clash of love, legacy, and reputation, with the Forsytes’ polished façade beginning to crack under pressure. Returning cast members include Eleanor Tomlinson, Susan Hampshire, Francesca Annis, and Stephen Moyer, alongside new additions such as Nia Ashi and Richard Rankin. The series will continue to blend historical grandeur with emotional depth, offering a fresh perspective on the original 1960s BBC adaptation.#the_forsytes #debbie_horsfield #john_galsworthy #channel_5 #jolyon
