The Larkins: Who starred in the original Darling Buds of May and when was it on?

The classic series aired back in the 90s (Picture: ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

The Larkins is on course to become one of biggest new ITV dramas of 2021, with Bradley Walsh leading the cast of the new show. 

The Darling Buds of May reboot began on ITV last Sunday night, and sees the actor, comedian and The Chase host leading the cast as loveable wheeler dealer Pop Larkin.

He appears alongside Joanna Scanlan, Peter Davison and Bridgerton star Sabrina Bartlett in the six part series. 

His son Barney is also appearing in the new adaptation of H. E. Bates’s 1958 novel.

The Darling Buds of May reboot is written by Simon Nye (The Durrells, Men Behaving Badly) and Abigail Wilson (Stella, Trollied).

But who starred in the original Darling Buds of May series? 

Here’s everything you need to know.

Who starred in the original Darling Buds of May and when was it on?

The classic show featured some huge stars (Picture: Moviestore/REX/Shutterstock)

Just like the upcoming reboot, the original series tells the story of a working-class family in rural 1950s Kent, with six children led by Pop and his wife Ma.

It starred Sir David Jason as Pop, who is set to be played by Bradley in the new series. Pop was known for his catchphrase ‘perfick’ in the original series. 

Pam Ferris starred as Ma, while Catherine Zeta-Jones played eldest daughter Mariette in her breakout role. 

Tax inspector Cedric ‘Charley’ Charlton, who marries Mariette, was played by Philip Franks.

Catherine Zeta-Jones made her name in the series as Mariette (Picture: ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

The show ran for three series between 1991 and 1993. There were a total of 20 episodes made.

The new stars of the show will be hoping they can pay tribute to the classic series, while taking the programme in a fresh direction. 

A new trailer for the new series sees the characters introduce themselves, beginning with Bradley’s Pop speaking to the viewer.

Bradley leads the cast of the new reboot (Picture: ITV/Nicky Johnston/Rex/Shutterstock)

Bradley said: ‘I’m thrilled to be asked to be part of this much loved and iconic series of stories.

‘The warmth and affection that H. E. Bates has generated through his books is so uplifting and I cannot wait to be part of the Larkin family. It’ll be a hoot!’

More: Catherine Zeta-Jones

Joanna added: ‘What better comfort could there be from all we have endured this year than the rolling laughter and outsize hugs of Ma and Pop?

‘It’s going to be an honour to help bring The Larkins to the nation’s devices!’

The Larkins continues on ITV on Sunday night at 8pm.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : The Larkins: Who’s who in the cast and how to watch The Darling Buds of May reboot

MORE : The Larkins: Plot, trailer, cast and release date for Bradley Walsh’s Darling Buds of May reboot