Bradley Walsh to star as Pop Larkin in new 'Darling Buds of May' adaptation

Bradley Walsh is set to star in new ITV comedy series The Larkins, based on H.E. Bates' novel The Darling Buds of May.

He will play Pop Larkin opposite The Thick Of It actor Joanna Scanlan as Ma.

The book was famously adapted into a television series in the early 1990s starring David Jason and Pam Ferris as the Larkin parents and Catherine Zeta-Jones as their eldest daughter Mariette in her breakthrough role.

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It became one of ITV's all time highest rated television comedy drama when it aired from 1991 to 1993.

ITV has commissioned a six part series of The Larkins, which is being produced by Objective Fiction, Genial Productions and OMG Scotland and written by Simon Nye.

Set in the 1950s, the series will follow the Larkins, their six children and their escapades in the Kent countryside. While kind-hearted and good natured, the family has a disinterest in authority.

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Walsh, who has recently been confirmed to be leaving Doctor Who, said of the new project: “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!“

Meanwhile, Scanlan 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!”

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As in the previous adaption, The Larkins will follow the romance between Mariette and city accountant Cedric 'Charley' Charlton who arrives in the village to investigate the Larkins' tax affairs.

Further casting details are set to be announced in 2021.

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