All Creatures Great & Small Prequel With Sanditon Star Nobody Knew About

When Channel 5's All Creatures Great and Small was picked up by PBS for US distribution, it seemed as though the entire world suddenly developed a fascination with the lush English countryside and a specific veterinarian named James Herriot.

The show's success was such that fans began purchasing Herriot's books (yes, he is a real historical figure) and watching the original series, which aired on the BBC from 1978 to 1990. However, one version of Herriot's story still eluded fans, though not for long.

Of course, we are talking about the limited series titled Young James Herriot, broadcast on the BBC in 2011. Despite this project comprising only three hour-long episodes, it is definitely worth watching, particularly if you regard yourself as an ACGS connoisseur!

Impressive Cast

As the title suggests, the show focuses on Herriot's formative years, tracing his journey from when he first enrolled at the veterinary college in Glasgow. The show is set in the early 1930s, making it not too distant in terms of time from the Channel 5 show, which is a significant bonus for all fans of the new series, as the context is quite clear from the outset.

The show also boasts an absolutely stellar cast, with Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.'s Iain De Caestecker in the lead role and Thor: Dark World's Tony Curran in a supporting role. Sanditon's heartthrob Ben Lloyd-Hughes is also part of the cast, which may surprise the general public who were first introduced to him just a few years ago.

Event To Remember

Young James Herriot was conceived as a special Christmas treat for all fans of the vet and author, as he is a cherished figure in his home country. This show is just as comforting as ACGS and has no connection to WWII, which means it's all about feel-good vibes!

Even though the series concludes with a rather commonplace happy ending, it is still worth your time, especially if All Creatures Great and Small ranks among your favorite shows.