When the 2005 version of Pride and Prejudice was released, Keira Knightley said “I think that’s why the character is so loved, because everybody who loves the book is Elizabeth Bennet. Or she’s what you aspire to be, she’s funny, she’s witty and intelligent. She’s a fully rounded and very much-loved character.” And as an Austen enthusiast myself, I resonated with this. There is almost a sense of possession over Elizabeth, and as the main character, she is the one people tend to gravitate towards.

But in The Other Bennet Sister, the narrative is completely shifted to be that from Mary Bennet – probably the least interesting and inspiring character in the novel (or so we may have once thought). She was always a background character…the odd one out, the embarrassment to her sisters, the plain one. This series, however, completely transforms her. And I’m here for it.

Starting within the backdrop of the original novel, The Other Bennet Sister gives us a behind-the-scenes look at Mary (played by Ella Bruccoleri). True we may know her as the plain and serious one, but instead we see a young lady eager to engage with life. But who knew something as simple as wearing spectacles would derail her future, along with her mother’s disapproving and dismissive treatment. So, she withdraws and begins her journey into reverent and dedicated learning.

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After a life-altering event (no spoilers from me), Mary travels to London as a temporary governess to the children of the Gardner’s, (played by Indira Varma and Richard Coyle), and it is in London that Mary begins to uncover who she really is. She tries new clothing, attends social events, and even finds herself the center of attention in some cases…something which she never experienced in the shadows of her sisters.

Of course, there is conflict and turmoil, especially as she navigates her affections for both Mr. Hayward (Dónal Finn) and Mr. Ryder (Laurie Davidson), and where she fits in her family’s life. But what stood out to me was how relatable Mary was written. Going back to the beginning of this piece, it’s always been about how people want to be Elizabeth. I never thought I’d see myself in Mary. And I venture to say we all are a “Mary,” in a way. Part of the human experience is refining our identities – who we are, what we want, and what our purpose is. Mary isn’t just navigating life and its circumstances; she is actively forming it. So often we simply lean into “it is what it is,” or “that’s just how I am,” but what we see in The Other Bennet Sister is someone striving to move beyond preconceptions and the opinions of others and instead take ownership of her identity. It’s an opportunity for all of us to see something new within ourselves.

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You don’t have to be an Austen fanatic to appreciate and enjoy The Other Bennet Sister, and I highly recommend giving it a chance…just as Mary learns to take chances in life.

The Other Bennet Sister is available to stream on BritBox on May 6th.