Editor Jennifer Hampson: Episode 2.

Exec Producer: David Glover and Rob Coldstream 

72 Films For BBC

9pm on Monday 26th May.

She’s one of the most celebrated writers in the English language, yet the real Jane Austen remains surprisingly elusive. A captivating new three-part series for BBC Arts, Jane Austen: Rise of a Genius, brings her extraordinary story to life.

Marking the 250th anniversary of Austen’s birth, this drama-documentary series does more than revisit the classics, it uncovers the fiercely intelligent woman behind them. Despite having written thousands of letters to her sister Cassandra, most were tragically destroyed after her death in 1817. What remains offers precious glimpses into Austen’s private thoughts, which this series uses as a vital thread throughout the episodes.

Blending cinematic drama with archival material and deeply insightful interviews, Jane Austen: Rise of a Genius features a remarkable line-up of contributors. These include celebrated authors like Helen Fielding, Candice Carty-Williams, Kate Atkinson, Colm Tóibín and Bee Rowlatt, alongside actors Charity Wakefield, Greta Scacchi, Samuel West, Tamsin Greig, Tom Bennett and Greg Wise—many of whom have brought Austen’s characters to life on stage and screen. The series also draws on expertise from historians and scholars including Dr Paula Byrne, Admiral Lord West, Dr Priya Atwal, Dr Louise Curran, and Dr Paddy Bullard, with filmmaker Ken Loach lending his unique perspective.

We’re especially proud to spotlight editor Jennifer Hampson, who cut Episode 2 of this landmark series.  

Jane Austen: Rise of a Genius is a fitting tribute to a woman who transformed the literary landscape—and whose genius still speaks to us today.

Obsessed with Pride and Prejudice, Katie’s particularly looking forward to this series!

Premieres on BBC iPlayer and BBC Two from 9pm on Monday 26th May.