Little Women (2017 TV Series) – Cast, Episodes and Where to Watch
The Little Women (2017) miniseries brought Louisa May Alcott’s beloved 1868-69 novel to life in a three-part British television adaptation for BBC One and PBS Masterpiece. Premiering during the 2017 holiday season in the United Kingdom, the production offered audiences an intimate portrayal of the four March sisters as they navigate childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood during the American Civil War era.
Produced by Playground Television UK in partnership with PBS Masterpiece, the adaptation drew significant attention for its faithful rendering of Alcott’s semi-autobiographical story while introducing the narrative to a new generation of viewers. The series aired on BBC One starting December 26, 2017, with PBS beginning its US broadcast on May 13, 2018.
What is Little Women (2017 TV Series)?
Little Women (2017) stands as a British television miniseries that translates Alcott’s enduring novel into a three-episode format, each running approximately one hour. The production chronicles the lives of sisters Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy March, alongside their mother Marmee, as they confront challenges posed by poverty, societal expectations, and personal loss in Civil War-era Concord, Massachusetts.
The adaptation distinguishes itself through its commitment to period authenticity and character depth. Rather than condensing the narrative into a feature-length format, the three-part structure allows for more nuanced exploration of relationships, emotional arcs, and the historical context surrounding the March family. Filmed primarily at Bray Studios and Ardmore Studios in County Wicklow, Ireland, the production created the Victorian-era settings through purpose-built sets and carefully selected Irish locations.
Heidi Thomas, recognized for her work on the acclaimed Call the Midwife series, served as writer and executive producer, bringing her expertise in adapting literary works for television. The screenplay maintains fidelity to Alcott’s original narrative while expanding certain character moments to fill the episodic format.
Key Facts About the Series
- The series first aired in the United Kingdom on BBC One, beginning on Boxing Day (December 26, 2017) and continuing through December 28, 2017
- US audiences received access through PBS Masterpiece starting May 13, 2018, providing extended time for character development across the three episodes
- Production took place at Bray and Ardmore Studios in County Wicklow, Ireland, with filming commencing in July 2017
- The adaptation was commissioned by BBC Drama in May 2017, representing a significant investment in literary drama for the broadcaster
- Writer Heidi Thomas drew upon themes of sibling rivalry, first love, loss, and marriage that define Alcott’s original work
- Critics noted the production for bringing fresh energy to the story through the miniseries format, allowing deeper exploration than traditional film adaptations permit
| Network (UK) | BBC One |
|---|---|
| Network (US) | PBS Masterpiece |
| Director | Vanessa Caswill |
| Writer | Heidi Thomas |
| Production Company | Playground Television UK |
| Costume Designer |
