Legendary children’s show ‘set to return’ for new series – despite reboot being branded ‘awful’ by viewers
THE BBC is set to release more episodes of The Famous Five.
An adaptation of Enid Blighton’s legendary children’s stories of the same name, The Famous Five, began airing in December on BBC One and CBBC.
In line with Enid’s books, the series follows five daring young explorers as they encounter treacherous, action-packed adventures and mysteries wherever they go.
After the debut episode, titled A Curse on Kirrin Island, aired in December, viewers had to wait several months for the next two instalments of the series, with episode two, Peril on the Night Train, premiering in March and episode three, The Eye of the Sunrise, hitting screens in May.
It has now been reported by TVZoneUK.com that the BBC has commissioned two more episodes of the children’s series.
Bringing the characters to life is Diaana Babnicova, who takes on the role of George, while her cousins Julian, Dick and Anne are played by Elliott Rose, Kit Rakusen and Flora Jacoby Richardson, respectively.
Making up the fifth member of The Famous Five and the gang’s faithful furry friend is Kip, the Bearded Collie Cross, playing Timmy the dog.
Game of Thrones star Jack Gleeson also plays the villainous Wentworth, while Ann Akinjirin plays Fanny alongside James Lance as Quentin and Diana Quick as Mrs Wentworth.
When The Famous Five premiered, the BBC expressed their excitement about the series with Patricia Hidalgo, Director BBC Children’s and Education,saying: “Bringing these books to life with a new reimagining of The Famous Five is a real treat for BBC audiences and a celebration of British heritage.
“These stories are loved around the world and bringing families together is a key part of our strategy, so we hope it introduces a new generation of viewers to these wonderful adventures.”
Unfortunately, The Famous Five was slammed by BBC viewers who thought it wasn’t a very faithful adaptation of the classic stories.
Taking to X, formerly Twitter, one viewer voiced their displeasure just minted into the series. “Less than five minutes in and this Famous Five adaptation is awful,” they said, adding: “Will persevere a bit longer just in case but hopes are not high. Why mess with a classic story?”
Another viewer agreed: “Just watched The Famous Five. Awful. Why can’t the BBC leave things as they’re meant to be? George is taller than her mother, it’s badly cast and don’t get me started on the music and filming! Not what Enid Blyton wrote!”
“I wasn’t keen on it either,” agreed another viewer, who suggested it was a “second-rate” series compared to former adaptations.
But in response to the criticism Casting director Daniel Hubbard simply said he was thrilled the series got people talking.
He tweeted: “I am so pleased and proud I worked on this, as it seems to have upset all the right people.”
Additionally, some adult fans said they have enjoyed watching the updated reboot which modernises the series but also feels nostalgic.
If The Famous Five returns, viewers could expect to see the main cast reprise their roles.
The BBC has been contacted for comment about further episodes.
The Famous Five is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.