21 h. ago ‘Looks so sizzling they could fry an egg!’ How the BBC’s Pride and Prejudice adaptation changed my life

The 1995 adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic, starring Colin Firth, has its own fan group, has inspired university courses and was even featured in the Barbie movie. What’s behind its enduring appeal? I was born in the wrong century – or so my mother says, while I protest from my writing bureau, wax seal in hand, ready to dispatch an Austen-style letter to a friend. But as I put out the candle flame with my antique snuffer, I wonder if she might be right. For me, the past has always felt like home – I grew up on a literary diet of classic fiction, seasoned with a love of my Regency hero, Jane Austen.So when the BBC dramatisation of her most popular novel, Pride and Prejudice, first aired in 1995, it was manna from heaven for me, especially as an A-level English literature student. My pre-binge-era classmates and I delighted in the weekly suspense. We chattered of Mr Darcy’s intense looks, so sizzling they could fry an egg; laughed over the unfiltered comments of a dramatic Mrs Benne...

Politics

8 d. ago Comedy legend Jasper Carrott seen with TV star pal months after celebrating 80th birthday

The comedy and TV star was seen enjoying a break from his current tour to catch up with one of his TV star pals

Culture

2 w. ago Taylor Swift, Kylie, Cher, and the enduring appeal of the showgirl

Sparkles, feathers and not much else — the megastar’s look for her new album has set the internet ablaze. Burlesque is back, baby!

Politics

4 w. ago The enduring appeal of Moomins as cartoon celebrates its 80th birthday

Set in the whimsical Moominvalley, the series has been translated into more than 60 languages, sparking a global phenomenon

Politics

4 w. ago Mamma Mia is back on Broadway where it belongs and honestly, thank goodness

When the ‘Mamma Mia’ marquee went back up on Broadway for the first time in more than a decade, it felt like nature was healing. Caitlin Hornik explores why the musical has such enduring appeal.

Politics

4 w. ago Fans celebrate the 80th birthday of the Moomins, Finland's most lovable literary cartoon family

The Moomins, Finland’s most famous literary cartoon family, are celebrating their 80th birthday this year

Politics