The Darling Buds of May is a beloved British television series that first aired in 1991. Based on the novels by H.E. Bates, the show captures the charm of rural life in 1950s Kent. It follows the heartwarming adventures of the Larkin family, led by the ever-optimistic Pop Larkin. The cast, characters, and their transformations over the years remain a topic of fascination. Here’s a detailed look at the cast and where they are now.
Main Cast and Their Roles
David Jason as Pop Larkin
David Jason played the jovial and resourceful patriarch, Sidney “Pop” Larkin. Known for his quick wit and love for life, Pop became an iconic character.
What David Jason is Doing Now
David Jason has had a long and successful career. Famous for roles in Only Fools and Horses and A Touch of Frost, he remains a TV legend. Even in his eighties, he occasionally appears in interviews and documentaries.
Pam Ferris as Ma Larkin
Pam Ferris portrayed the nurturing yet strong Ma Larkin. Her character kept the family together while embracing the Larkin lifestyle.
Where Is Pam Ferris Now?
Pam Ferris is well-known for other roles, including Aunt Marge in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and Miss Trunchbull in Matilda. Recently, she appeared in Call the Midwife. Though semi-retired, she sometimes lends her talents to TV dramas
Catherine Zeta-Jones as Mariette Larkin
Mariette Larkin, the eldest Larkin child, was played by Catherine Zeta-Jones. Her beauty and charm were central to the storyline, particularly her romance with Cedric “Charley” Charlton.
Catherine Zeta-Jones’ Hollywood Journey
After The Darling Buds of May, Catherine Zeta-Jones transitioned to Hollywood stardom. She starred in hits like The Mask of Zorro, Chicago, and Ocean’s Twelve. Today, she remains one of the most recognized actresses globally.
Philip Franks as Charley Charlton
Philip Franks played Charley, the shy tax inspector who falls for Mariette. His role captured the awkward yet endearing nature of the character.
What Happened to Philip Franks?
After the show, Philip Franks appeared in numerous stage productions and TV series, including Heartbeat. He is also a skilled director in theatre, continuing his involvement in the arts.
Supporting Cast
Christina Giles as Primrose Larkin
Primrose was the dreamy and intelligent Larkin daughter. Christina Giles played her with subtlety, winning fans’ hearts.
Where is Christina Giles Today?
Christina Giles left acting after the show and chose a private life away from the limelight.
Ian Tucker as Montgomery Larkin
Ian Tucker played Montgomery, one of the younger Larkin siblings, bringing innocence and humor to the show.
What Ian Tucker is Doing Now
Ian Tucker moved away from acting after The Darling Buds of May. He now leads a quieter life, far from the entertainment industry.
Revival and New Cast
In 2021, ITV rebooted the series under the name The Larkins. The revival introduced a new generation to the Larkins’ idyllic world.
Bradley Walsh as Pop Larkin
Bradley Walsh brought his comedic flair to the role, creating a fresh yet familiar Pop.
Joanna Scanlan as Ma Larkin
Joanna Scanlan’s portrayal of Ma retained the warmth and wisdom fans adored in the original.
Sabrina Bartlett as Mariette Larkin
Sabrina Bartlett brought elegance and charm to the new Mariette, capturing the essence of Catherine Zeta-Jones’ portrayal.
Cultural Impact of the Show
Iconic Settings
The picturesque countryside became synonymous with the Larkins’ lifestyle. Fans still visit Kent to explore the filming locations.
Career Launchpad
The show was a major stepping stone for Catherine Zeta-Jones, launching her international career.
Timeless Themes
Themes of family, love, and resilience have kept the show relevant. Its light-hearted humor continues to bring joy to new generations.
The Evolution of the Cast: From Unknowns to Icons
When The Darling Buds of May first aired, it showcased a range of actors, many of whom were either relatively unknown or just beginning to make a name for themselves in British television. The charm and relatability of the characters they portrayed helped propel them to stardom.
David Jason’s Legacy: From Pop to Icon
David Jason was already a recognized face in British television before The Darling Buds of May, thanks to his iconic role as Del Boy in Only Fools and Horses. However, his portrayal of Pop Larkin added a new layer to his career. As Pop, he was not just the cheerful, cheeky character, but a man full of warmth and unexpected wisdom.
Post-Darling Buds Career
The Boarding School Murders After the success of The Darling Buds of May, David Jason continued to work in the entertainment industry. He became synonymous with roles where he portrayed characters with a blend of humor and sincerity. Jason starred in A Touch of Frost, playing the unflappable Detective Frost for over 15 years. His legacy also extends to voice work, including the character of Mr. Toad in The Wind in the Willows (1996). He remains an influential figure in the British television landscape.
Pam Ferris: The Heart of Ma Larkin
Pam Ferris’ portrayal of Ma Larkin was the perfect foil to David Jason’s Pop. As Ma, she exuded warmth and a nurturing spirit that made her an instant favorite. Her no-nonsense attitude toward her children, especially Mariette, provided a balance to Pop’s carefree nature.
Pam Ferris After The Darling Buds of May
Following her success as Ma Larkin, Pam Ferris continued to build her impressive career in film and television. She starred in numerous TV dramas, including the role of Miss Trunchbull in the 1996 film Matilda, based on Roald Dahl’s beloved novel. Pam also appeared in Call the Midwife, where she played Sister Evangelina, a role that showcased her depth and versatility as an actress. Despite her success in various roles, she will forever be remembered for her portrayal of Ma Larkin.
FAQs
1. When did The Darling Buds of May first air?
The show debuted in 1991 on ITV.
2. Is The Larkins connected to the original series?
Yes, The Larkins is a modern reboot of The Darling Buds of May.
3. Where was the series filmed?
The show was filmed in rural Kent, highlighting the beauty of the English countryside.
4. What other shows is David Jason known for?
Sunderland AFC David Jason is famous for Only Fools and Horses and A Touch of Frost.
5. Why did Catherine Zeta-Jones leave the series?
She left to pursue a career in Hollywood, which proved to be highly successful.
The Darling Buds of May remains a treasured part of British TV history. Its charming characters, idyllic settings, and heartwarming stories continue to captivate fans. Whether you love the original or the reboot, the Larkins’ world is one to cherish forever.
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