Three decades after her acclaimed portrayal in the film adaptation, acclaimed actress Emma Thompson is set to enthrall audiences once again by returning to the world of Jane Austen’s classic novel, “Sense and Sensibility,” through an innovative Audible podcast sequel. This highly anticipated project promises a fresh and bold reinterpretation, expanding on the beloved literary universe with a modern sensibility.
The new Audible production, titled “Becoming Meg Dashwood,” delves into the untold story of the youngest Dashwood sister, Margaret. The narrative explores themes of “sexuality and liberation,” offering a contemporary lens on a historical setting, moving beyond the traditional constraints of Austen’s era and providing a deeper look into a character previously less explored.
Adding significant star power to this literary sequel, the ensemble cast is truly remarkable. It features Emmy-nominee Erin Doherty, BAFTA-winner Naomi Ackie, and includes revered acting talents such as Imelda Staunton, Jessica Gunning, Liz Carr, Paterson Joseph, Greg Wise, and Golda Rosheuvel, ensuring a compelling auditory experience for listeners.
The drama masterfully picks up precisely where Jane Austen’s original novel concluded, with Emma Thompson herself taking on the role of the older Margaret Dashwood. The series is vibrantly described as a “riotous, rebellious period drama about female friendship, sexuality, and liberation,” promising an exhilarating journey for its audience.
Key roles in this innovative “Audible Podcast” include Erin Doherty, who portrays Margaret’s younger self, Meg, offering a nuanced performance that captures the character’s development. Naomi Ackie stars as Nelly, Margaret’s lover, adding a crucial layer to the story’s exploration of relationships and personal freedom within its “Period Drama” framework.
Behind the scenes, the creative forces are equally impressive. The compelling script is penned by Rebecca Humphries, known for her sharp and insightful writing, while the evocative music is composed by Natasha Khan, better known as Bat For Lashes, whose unique sound promises to enrich the narrative landscape.
This significant “Literary Sequel” arrives approximately three decades after Ang Lee’s celebrated 1995 film adaptation of “Sense and Sensibility,” a movie that earned Emma Thompson an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay. The film itself was highly lauded, garnering seven Academy Award nominations and starring notable actors like Kate Winslet, Hugh Grant, and the late Alan Rickman.
Reflecting on her involvement, Emma Thompson expressed profound excitement, stating her pride in helping bring Audible and Rebecca Humphries’ extraordinary drama to life. She noted that their vision for the youngest Dashwood sister courageously transports listeners from Austen’s world into more private aspects of women’s lives, areas rarely openly discussed during the period.
Thompson also mused that Jane Austen herself would likely have been both “fascinated and delighted with the language and with the story,” and “gladdened by the desire to take one of her characters and give her a future and a big, unexpected voice,” underscoring the podcast’s respectful yet pioneering approach to the beloved classic.
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