PBS Reimagines Classic 'Tom Jones' in New Limited Series: Get All the Details

PBS never fails to deliver on period drama series. Fans flock to the network to catch the latest Murdoch Mysteries as well as Miss Scarlet and the Duke, Hotel Portofino and All Creatures Great and Small. With the series finale of Sanditon having recently aired, what's a lover of period drama to do?

Worry not! Masterpiece on PBS' new series, Tom Jones, based on the popular novel by author Henry Fielding (not to be confused with the "What's New, Pussycat?" singer), is coming to the small screen. Here's everything we know about Tom Jones, including the premiere date and first look images!

What is Tom Jones about?

In this four-part adaptation of Henry Fielding’s Tom Jones, this latest incarnation will give a new twist to the tale of a young man’s love for a wealthy heiress.

Sophia (Sophie Wilde) has a trio of watchful aunts—the headstrong Aunt Western (Shirley Henderson), the diffident Aunt Harriet (Tamzin Merchant) and Lady Bellaston (Hannah Waddingham), who is attentive in her own way. Sophia also has a worldly-wise servant Honour (Pearl Mackie).

When banished in disgrace by his adoptive father, Tom (Solly McLeod) leaves for London. Not far behind him, Sophia heads there to escape a forced marriage to William and seek the protection of her aunts. Along the way, Tom meets disgraced schoolmaster Partridge (Daniel Rigby), Mrs. Waters (Susannah Fielding), and the irascible soldier-of-fortune Fitzpatrick (Julian Rhind-Tutt).

The best-known version of Tom Jones is probably the 1963 Academy Award-winning film adaptation starring Albert Finney in the titular role.

Says Executive Producer Susanne Simpson, “This new adaptation of Tom Jones is a big-hearted rom-com that will absolutely delight our viewers. It’s fun–full of laughter and romance. I’m extremely proud to partner with producers Mammoth Screen, writer Gwyneth Hughes, and an outstanding cast on this joyful show.”

Is Tom Jones based on other material?

Tom Jones is based on The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling, an 18th century novel by Henry Fielding.

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Meet the cast of Tom Jones

Sophie Wilde (Sophia Western)

Sophie Wilde starred in the Australian crime thriller, Eden. She also appears in the movie, The Portable Door opposite Sam Neill and Christoph Waltz based on the popular Tom Holt novel on MGM+ (previously EPIX).

Solly McLeod (Tom Jones)

McLeod has appeared on House of the Dragon, Outlander and The Rising.

Hannah Waddingham (Lady Bellaston)

Best known for her role as team owner Rebecca Welton on Ted Lasso, Waddingham has had a prolific career on stage with lead roles in Into the Woods, Spamalot, and The Wizard of Oz.

The cast also includes James Fleet (Bridgerton) as Squire Allworthy, Tom’s warm-hearted adoptive father, and Alun Armstrong (Little Dorrit) as Allworthy’s hard drinking but loveable neighbor, Squire Western, who is Sophia’s doting grandfather. Felicity Montagu (The Durrells in Corfu) plays Allworthy’s reserved sister, Bridget, with James Wilbraham (In My Skin) as her odious son, William—an unrelenting antagonist to Tom. He and Tom eventually battle for Sophia’s hand, a contest that William seems destined to win.

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How can I watch Tom Jones?

Tom Jones will air on your local PBS station and stream via PBS Passport or Masterpiece on Amazon Prime.

When does Tom Jones premiere?

Tom Jones premieres on Sunday, April 30 at 9 p.m. ET on PBS.

How many episodes are there of Tom Jones?

Tom Jones will be shown in four parts beginning on Sunday, April 30 through May 21, 2023 at 9 p.m. ET on PBS.

Is there a season 2 of Tom Jones?

No word yet if there will be a second season of Tom Jones. Check back here for updates!

Related: Relax on the Italian Seaside in PBS' Latest Period Drama, Hotel Portofino

Is there a trailer for Tom Jones?

Yes! Check out the official trailer for Tom Jones below.