To celebrate the 25th anniversary of BBC’s Pride and Prejudice, we’ve put together a list of iconic couples you can find on BritBox, including, of course, Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. BritBox has released an exclusive new trailer for the freshly remastered edition of Pride and Prejudice, now available to stream as of September 25th.
Thanks to the 1995 adaptation starring Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle, the ’90s saw a surge in what we like to call Austenmania. This phenomenon led to numerous other Austen adaptations, a spike in Jane Austen’s presence in pop culture, and a boom in period dramas. Imagining a world without that legendary adaptation is simply unthinkable!
Below, you’ll find seven romantic pairs from noteworthy love stories. If you enjoy classic romance or quintessential British drama and comedy, then you’ll appreciate these iconic couples on BritBox. And if you haven’t seen these romantic dramas or comedies yet, now is the perfect time to dive into BritBox and explore.
ICONIC COUPLES ON BRITBOX
1. Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet – Pride and Prejudice (1995)
BritBox Synopsis: Celebrate the 25th anniversary of this award-winning adaptation of Jane Austen’s timeless Regency romance, now in 4K. The story revolves around the strong-minded Elizabeth Bennet, who spars intellectually with the wealthy and haughty Mr. Darcy.
Why They Are Iconic: Jane Austen’s sparring couple, Elizabeth and Darcy, set the gold standard for romance. This adaptation specifically is remembered for scenes like Colin Firth’s iconic dive into a lake. The new 4K restoration offers a fresh way to enjoy this classic tale.
2. Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester – Jane Eyre (2006)
BritBox Synopsis: Charlotte Bronte’s novel comes to life in this lavish adaptation featuring Ruth Wilson as the strong but plain heroine and Toby Stephens as the mysterious Rochester.
Why They Are Iconic: For fans of gothic romance, Jane Eyre’s timeless love story stands as one of the greatest. The 2006 series is often hailed as the best adaptation, perfectly capturing the intense emotional journey of Jane and Rochester.
3. Emma and Mr. Knightley – Emma (2009)
BritBox Synopsis: Romola Garai stars as Jane Austen’s romantic but misguided heroine who learns the hazards of matchmaking.
Why They Are Iconic: Emma and Mr. Knightley, brought to life by Romola Garai and Jonny Lee Miller, are among Jane Austen’s most beloved characters. This miniseries spends ample time delving into the nuances of their evolving relationship.
4. Beatrice and Benedick – Much Ado About Nothing (1984)
BritBox Synopsis: Shakespeare’s comedic play explores love, misunderstandings, and deceptions among its feisty characters.
Why They Are Iconic: Beatrice and Benedick are the prototype romantic comedy couple, with their witty banter leading the way. This whimsical and endearing adaptation does them justice.
5. Lionel Hardcastle & Jean Pargetter – As Time Goes By (1992)
BritBox Synopsis: This classic romantic sitcom reunites Judi Dench and Geoffrey Palmer as long-lost lovers.
Why They Are Iconic: With the charm and wit provided by two legendary actors, this series is a heartwarming and brilliantly written exploration of rekindled romance.
6. Yuri & Lara – Doctor Zhivago (2002)
BritBox Synopsis: Physician and poet Yuri Zhivago navigates his intense love for two women during the Russian Revolution. Starring Keira Knightley and Hans Matheson.
Why They Are Iconic: Though not as famous as the 1965 film, this adaptation remains faithful to the heartbreaking love story, featuring an impressive British cast.
7. William Buxton & Peggy Bell – Return to Cranford (2009)
BritBox Synopsis: British luminaries enliven this series, based on Elizabeth Gaskell’s novellas, introducing new romantic entanglements and societal challenges.
Why They Are Iconic: With actors like Tom Hiddleston and Jodi Whittaker, this period romance brings compelling new dynamics to the beloved Cranford series.
What’s your favorite iconic couple on BritBox? Planning to watch the remastered edition of Pride and Prejudice in 4K? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
