Channel 5 is heading back to Darrowby for at least two more series of its hit series, All Creatures Great and Small.
It has confirmed that it will return to the world of James Herriot for series 5 and 6, each consisting of 6 x 60 minute episodes, with Christmas specials.
The critically acclaimed adaptation is made by BAFTA and Golden Globe-winning production company Playground (Howards End, Wolf Hall, The Hardacres).
“Kindness and decency are increasingly rare qualities these days, so it is a blessing to be able to return to the sanctuary of Skeldale House and James Herriot’s beloved characters who represent all that is the best in us,” said Sir Colin Callender CBE, Executive Producer and CEO of Playground.
“There are no villains in All Creatures – just everyday folk trying to get through the day with dignity with the help of a supportive community, family and friends. It’s a lesson for modern times.”
Masterpiece on PBS in the US co-produces in association with global partner All3Media International.
“The heartwarming, escapist viewing offered by All Creatures Great and Small has charmed audiences around the world so I am delighted Playground’s joyful stories will return for a fifth and sixth series as we continue to grow this brand globally,” added Executive Producer Louise Pedersen, CEO of All3Media International.
The drama has been the channel’s most popular series, with Series 4 drawing 4.4m viewers.
Shooting on location in Yorkshire, it will be written by Debbie O’Malley (Payback, The Guilty) who will write episodes 1 and 6 and Maxine Alderton (All Creatures Great and Small, Doctor Who) who will write episodes 2 and 4 and both will serve as Associate Producers on series 5.
They are joined by writers Matt Evans (Phoenix Rise, A Town Called Malice) who will write episode 3 and Robin French (Cuckoo, The Great) will write episode 5.
Brian Percival (All Creatures Great and Small, Dark Angel) returns as Lead Director and Executive Producer of Episodes 1 and 2, Stewart Svaasand (Tin Star, Outlander) returns to direct episodes 3 & 4, and Andy Hay (All Creatures Great and Small, The Last Kingdom) will direct Episodes 5, 6 and the Christmas Special. Yvonne Francas (The Syndicate, Our Girl) also returns as Producer.
“We’re so pleased that All Creatures Great and Small will be returning to Channel 5 for two more series,” said Paul Testar, Commissioning Editor, Drama, Channel 5 and Paramount+.
“The show has captured the hearts of our audiences and we are committed to bringing even more of James Herriot’s unforgettable stories to our viewers. We can’t wait to share this next chapter.”
