‘THE FORSYTES’: THE NEW PBS MASTERPIECE ROMANCE
One of the most hyped period dramas for 2026 is the new PBS drama The Forsytes. A kind of reimagining of a popular novel which tells a multi-generational family saga, this Masterpiece drama boasts beautiful scenes and quite an impressive cast, too.
The Forsytes (2026) PBS TV Show Review
Family and duty are two things the Forsyte sons know well. But within that family is also a fight for supremacy. Jolyon Senior (Stephen Moyer) is determined his son (Danny Griffin) and namesake will take over the family business while his brother James (Jack Davenport) plans for his own son Soames (Joshua Orpin) to succeed as chairman of Forsyte & Co. It’s a rivalry that sets into motion events that once started cannot be undone.
Then there are the women behind these men. Frances (Tuppence Middleton) has built the perfect life for her husband Jolyon Jr. and any threats to that life are something she plots to stop. Whether that is the unsuitable choice of husband her strong-willed daughter makes or the arrival of Louisa Bryne (Eleanor Tomlinson), a beautiful woman with a hold on her husband, Frances isn’t one to quietly walk away. Meanwhile, Soames has set his sights on the complicated Irene Heron (Millie Gibson), a woman he befriends with intent to marry.
‘THE FORSYTES’: THE NEW PBS MASTERPIECE ROMANCE. Review of the new #MasterpiecePBS drama #TheForsytes. Share on XThis begins a four generation family saga that is dramatic and surprisingly different than the story we may have seen through the 90s production. The Forsytes is marketed as a reimagining of the novels by John Galsworthy, and is written by Debbie Horsfield, who is also the storyteller behind the PBS adaptation (and well loved) Poldark. With a late Victorian setting, this world is one that has more refined prettiness and is, subjectively, prettier to look at. And yes, this one is a beauty to behold.
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Like most of the adaptations that arrive under the Masterpiece banner, this is another one I haven’t read. To be transparent, all of these thoughts are therefore based solely on this as a production. And as usual, what a production this is. If this follows the same plots as the earlier version, I don’t know how well I will enjoy this, but the look and costumes are delicious and make everything better. The actors wear everything so well, and they turn in stellar performances, too.
Known for her role as Demelza in Poldark, it’s fabulous to see Thomlinson again and in addition to the talents of Moyer and Davenport, we also see Francesca Annis (a veteran star who has appeared in everything from Agatha Christie to Elizabeth Gaskell adaptations) and newcomer Justine Moore. Additionally, Tom Durant-Pritchard appears, who we have come to love as Alexander Blake in Miss Scarlet. Also, I have to add, I think I’m going to adore the bond between Jo and June (pictured below).
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If you enjoy the start of The Forstyes, chances are there is lots more story to come, all of which is sure to draw you in. The show has also already been renewed for a second season, so there is plenty of room to expand for these characters. Betrayal, secrets, danger and romance, all of it collides in this new drama from Masterpiece, a story sure to appeal to any avid fan of this banner.
Stream, at publication, The Forsytes with the PBS app or with the Masterpiece PBS Prime Video add-on; see new episodes every Sunday throughout April.
Photos: Masterpiece | PBS
Content: The content, based on this first episode is very TV-PG but there may be an episode or two that has more adult content than this premiere. This one does have a slightly sensual scene (kissing, bare shoulder). Some may rate TV-14.
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Rissi, Thank you for sharing your thoughts. The Forsytes sounds like one not to miss.
It’s quite gorgeous if you like period drama. :)