From “The Pitt” to “Industry,” Hollywood has given us some of the best TV shows of the year. But over in the U.K., the Brits are quietly serving up bold, bruising, and brilliantly bingeable drama too, much of which is landing on BBC iPlayer before it crosses the pond.
From raw fatherhood gut-punches like “Babies” to the sharp, character-driven storytelling of “The Other Bennet Sister,” I’ve picked out three hidden British TV gems (including one rated 100% on Rotten Tomatoes) that are headed your way.
‘The Other Bennet Sister’ (92% Rotten Tomatoes)
The Other Bennet Sister | OFFICIAL TRAILER – BBC – YouTube
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I rocked up to “The Other Bennet Sister” — a TV adaptation of author Janice Hadlow’s 2020 retelling of “Pride and Prejudice” — expecting a polite cup of televisual tea. Instead, I got a sly, spiced cocktail with a wicked aftertaste and, six hours of bonnets ‘n’ bitching later, I was all-in on Mary. If you enjoy watching some of the best British actors skewering Regency society, you’ll love it.
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Watch “The Other Bennet Sister” on BBC iPlayer now
Outside the U.K.? Use NordVPN to access BBC iPlayer when abroad
U.S. release: May 6, 2026 on Britbox.
‘Small Prophets’ (100% Rotten Tomatoes)
Small Prophets | Official Trailer – BBC – YouTube
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“Small Prophets” – a six-part comedy-drama – is an exceptional piece of ‘slow TV’ penned by Mackenzie Crook (“The Office” U.K.). From the outset, it never fails to find magic in the mundane as Michael (Pearce Quigley), quietly distraught over the disappearance of his girlfriend, embarks on a quest to uncover his father’s secret life. A great choice if you’re seeking a salutary Sunday-night binge with a dash of life-affirming British charm.
Watch “Small Prophets” on BBC iPlayer now
Outside the U.K.? Use NordVPN to access BBC iPlayer when abroad
U.S. release date: TBA – but we expect it to arrive on Britbox later.
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‘Babies’ (92% Rotten Tomatoes)
Babies | Official Trailer – YouTube
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“Babies” isn’t your average diaper drama. This six-part drama stars Paapa Essiedu and Siobhán Cullen as a London couple whose baby dreams keep slipping heartbreakingly out of reach. Less lullabies and more lump-in-your-throat realism, it tackles everything from miscarriage to male silence. If you’re bored with the usual baby schmaltz, drop in on “Babies” for some of the finest raw dialogue on TV.
Watch “Small Prophets” on BBC iPlayer now
Outside the U.K.? Use NordVPN to access BBC iPlayer when abroad
U.S. release date remains TBC – but we expect it to arrive on Britbox later.
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