David Tennant (Doctor Who, Good Omens, Jessica Jones) is charming viewers around the world in a fresh take on Jules Verne’s classic novel, Around the World in Eighty Days. This new rendition premiered on BBC1 on Boxing Day 2021 and on PBS Masterpiece on January 2nd, 2022. New episodes air weekly, and the show has already been renewed for a second season.
In this eight-part series created by Ashley Pharoah, Tennant plays Phileas Fogg, a timid adventurer tired of his monotonous life. Motivated by an article about circumnavigating the globe in 80 days, he takes on a daring wager at a gentlemen’s club. Fogg must pay 20,000 pounds to the villainous Mr. Bellamy if he fails.
Joining him on this whirlwind journey are his new valet, Jean Passepartout (Ibrahim Koma), and Abigail “Fix” Fortescue, an ambitious journalist whose article spurred Fogg’s adventure. Despite her father’s disapproval, Abigail joins them as they face thrilling adventures across destinations like Italy, Paris, and Hong Kong. With Tennant at the helm, the series strikes a similar adventurous and heartfelt tone as historical Doctor Who episodes.
The cast also features Leonie Benesch as Abigail, Jason Watkins as her controlling father Donald Fortescue, and Peter Sullivan as the evil Nyle Bellamy. Viewers can expect high-quality performances from an array of talented guest stars, including Lindsay Duncan, Gary Beadle, and Richard Wilson.
This adaptation encourages viewers to pursue their dreams and stay resilient, even when others doubt them. While some purists may criticize deviations from the original novel, such as the inclusion of Abigail, this change adds depth and aligns with the adventurous spirit of the story. Abigail is inspired by real-life journalist Nellie Bly, who, inspired by Verne’s novel, completed her own journey around the world in 72 days in 1890.
Tennant shines in his role as Phileas Fogg, bringing both humanity and courage to the character. The show’s production is top-notch, featuring impressive scripts, well-developed characters, and beautiful set designs. With Hans Zimmer composing the central theme, the series is a visual and auditory delight.
Overall, Around the World in 80 Days is an enjoyable adventure that can inspire viewers to chase their own dreams. The show, rated TV-14, is mild and suitable for a broad audience.
In the UK, the series airs on BBC1 and the BBC iPlayer. In the US, it is available on PBS Masterpiece, PBS Passport, and the PBS Masterpiece Amazon Channel. It can also be streamed for free on PBS.org and purchased digitally once all episodes have aired.
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