Adrian Mole Returns to BBC Screens in New 10-Part Adaptation

David Nicholls (Image: Paul Stuart) Courtesy of BBC Press

By Jon Donnis

The BBC is bringing Sue Townsend's beloved character Adrian Mole back to screens with a new 10-part series, The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾, produced by Big Talk Studios for BBC iPlayer and BBC One. The adaptation is led by David Nicholls, known for One Day and Us, who also serves as lead writer, with contributions from Caitlin Moran and Caroline Moran, Dillon Mapletoft, Oliver Taylor, and Jack Rooke.

Set on New Year's Day 1981, the series follows Adrian as he begins his iconic diary, capturing the highs and lows of adolescence before mobile phones and social media existed. Armed with only a multicoloured ballpoint pen, Adrian chronicles his worries about spots, first love, and his parents' divorce. His world also includes memorable figures like Pandora, his "treacle-haired beloved"; his outspoken Grandma; and the foul-mouthed pensioner Bert Baxter. Through these characters, the show paints a vivid picture of suburban Britain, mixing humour with moments of poignancy.

The series explores the struggles of Adrian's family, from his mother Pauline navigating her feminist awakening to his father George coping with redundancy, while remaining a universal story of growing up.

David Nicholls commented on adapting the book, saying it was "an absolute pleasure" and praising Sue Townsend's original work for its comic brilliance and uncanny insight into adolescence. Kenton Allen, CEO of Big Talk Studios, described the adaptation as "deeply authentic and universally human," while executive producer Luke Alkin called bringing Adrian Mole to life "a dream come true." Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, highlighted the series' timeless relevance and the exceptional writing team that honours Townsend's work while introducing Adrian to a new generation.

The series is directed by Alex Winckler (Somewhere Boy, Mary and George) and produced by Charlotte Robinson (A Thousand Blows). Executive producers are Kenton Allen, Luke Alkin, and David Nicholls, with the Sue Townsend estate represented by Jane Villiers at Sayle Screen. Big Talk Studios, part of ITV Studios, is behind the production.

This adaptation promises to reintroduce one of Britain's most iconic teenage voices with warmth, humour, and heart, bringing Adrian Mole's unforgettable world to life for both new viewers and longtime fans.