Pride and Prejudice First Look: Jack Lowden and Emma Corrin Star as Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet in New Adaptation; Netflix Omits Iconic Scene

Emma Corin and Jack Lowden Film New Pride and Prejudice Adaptation in Derbyshire

[Image: Emma Corin and Jack Lowden filming on the moors]
Emma Corin and Jack Lowden spotted filming in Derbyshire’s Peak District for Netflix’s upcoming series.

Emma Corin (The Crown) and Jack Lowden (The Gold) were seen filming Netflix’s highly anticipated Pride and Prejudice adaptation in the windswept landscapes of Derbyshire this week. Corin stars as Elizabeth Bennet, while Lowden takes on the role of the brooding Mr. Darcy in this fresh take on Jane Austen’s 1813 classic.

Regency Drama Reimagined
The six-episode series, set to premiere in early 2026, promises a faithful yet modern retelling of Elizabeth and Darcy’s tumultuous romance. Onlookers noted Lowden’s rugged portrayal of Darcy, clad in a gray frock coat, riding breeches, and boots, while Corin’s Elizabeth donned a flowing gray silk dress and floral jacket, both battling the Peak District’s gusty weather.

[Image: Jack Lowden as Mr. Darcy on horseback]
Jack Lowden’s Darcy cuts a striking figure during a horseback scene.

A Stellar Supporting Cast
The series boasts an impressive lineup, including Olivia Colman as the fretful Mrs. Bennet and Rufus Sewell as her exasperated husband. Other cast members include Freya Mavor as Jane Bennet, Daryl McCormack as Mr. Bingley, and Fiona Shaw as Lady Catherine de Bourg. Newcomers Hopey Parish and Hollie Avery will debut as Mary and Kitty Bennet.

Controversy Over Missing Lake Scene
Fans of the 1995 BBC adaptation may be disappointed: Netflix’s version reportedly omits Colin Firth’s iconic wet-shirt lake scene, citing concerns about “objectifying men.” Instead, Lowden’s Darcy channels intensity through heated exchanges with Corin’s Elizabeth, described by an onlooker as “dashing” but devoid of aquatic theatrics.

[Image: Colin Firth’s 1995 lake scene]
The iconic lake scene from the 1995 BBC adaptation won’t be replicated in the new series.

Fan Backlash and Casting Debate
Netflix faced criticism after releasing a first-look teaser in July, with fans calling the casting “awful” and threatening to cancel subscriptions. Comments ranged from “This casting is what the f**” to comparisons with Netflix’s poorly received Persuasion adaptation. However, the creative team—including Heartstopper* director Euros Lyn and writer Dolly Alderton—remains optimistic. Alderton called the project a “joy,” emphasizing Austen’s timeless appeal.

[Image: Netflix’s casting announcement backlash]
Social media reactions to Netflix’s casting reveal sparked heated debate.

Production Details
Filming, which began earlier this year, will wrap in the UK by late 2025. The series aims to balance Austen’s wit and social commentary with fresh perspectives, though purists may need to adjust their expectations. As Lowden masters Darcy’s “trademark sneer” and Corin embodies Elizabeth’s fiery spirit, the adaptation seeks to charm both new audiences and devoted Austenites.

[Image: Olivia Colman and Rufus Sewell on set]
Olivia Colman and Rufus Sewell bring humor and depth to the Bennet parents.

Whether this iteration joins the ranks of beloved adaptations or becomes a divisive reboot remains to be seen—but with its mix of star power and bold choices, it’s already stirring conversation.

Pride and Prejudice streams on Netflix in 2026.