#Ted Lasso Star Hannah Waddingham Heading To Tom Jones Remake For Masterpiece

In a press release for PBS, writer and executive producer of the series Gwyneth Hughes describes the series best, saying, “‘Tom Jones’ is the mother of all romcoms and isn’t that just what we all need after the last couple of years of misery? It’s a story where the sun barely stops shining, where love conquers all, and at its warm heart stand a pair of young sweethearts everyone can root for.”

Although the story isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, the novel was considered quite scandalous at the time due to its promiscuous plot lines and sexual scenarios. While the 1963 film (also named “Tom Jones”) definitely maintained the novel’s racy tone (just look at this vintage poster), it looks like the miniseries won’t be anything to scoff at either. As Hughes explains:

“Henry Fielding’s 18th century novel is sexy and fun; it’s also a dramatic rollercoaster, addressing so many modern concerns around consent, sexual equality and the pursuit of happiness. Tom and Sophia overcome enormous obstacles before finding their way home and to each other. This is a classic adaptation with a wise soul and a great big smile on its face.”

“Tom Jones” will begin shooting on location during the fall of 2021 in Northern Ireland. Until then, I highly recommend you read about “What’s New Pussycat?,” the Tom Jones musical that combines the music of the Welsh Jones with the story of the fictional Jones and feels incredibly cursed.