All Creatures Great and Small, Season 2: Q&A With the Cast & Crew

Variety editor Jenelle Riley chatted with series stars Nicholas Ralph, Rachel Shenton, Samuel West, Callum Woodhouse, and Anna Madeley, as well as with series Writer and Executive Producer Ben Vanstone, MASTERPIECE Executive Producer Susanne Simpson, and Playground Executive Producer Colin Callender. Hear what they all had to say about coming back after an acclaimed first season and what's to come for all of our favorite Yorkshire Dales characters.
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[@matthewporachan1313]

I love this show so much. Love all of the characters. I feel we need a show like this now….something good and nice.

[@LillianKüstenfeuer]

Agreed 👍🏻

[@tunisiarawles]

I absolutely agree with you, it's really a delightful show and I look forward to seeing it every week.

[@nolagirl7082]

I wish they made more shows like this! We need more shows that make us happy

[@amyfrazier550]

The best show I've ever seen. It's a godsend in today's chaotic world.

[@35diamondgirl]

I adore this series, and I adore this cast-both a balm for a hurting world. It’s been quite awhile since I’ve been so easily swept up into a story and so enamored of its characters. Thank you for this lovely interview!

[@tmmartinesq.6216]

Great to see Ticky Woo back! So very sad we lost Dame Diana Rigg, however her successor in the role Mrs. Pumphrey role is wonderful. Cheers!

[@TheGconrad]

Once a week for an hour the world is a better place. Thanks for making us all smile.

[@sarahannwhite]

Well said!

[@juliarandolph6809]

Loooooove this show. One of the few shows that has my full respect! A show I can watch with my elderly mother with dementia, husband and kids at the same time. My mother laughs when the animals and vets have a comical moment. BRAVO!!! Well done!!!! ❤❤❤

[@masterpiecepbs]

Hi Julia. Thanks so much for your comment. We're delighted to know the show has been meaningful to you and your family.

[@ArtfulAmy]

The family dynamic of these characters is one my favorite aspects of the show. A moving moment from the first season is when Siegfried, Tristan, and Mrs. Hall join James (who had a bittersweet birthday) outside of the Drovers to go home for the night. They stand supportively with him, look towards Skeldale House together, and Siegfried suggests “Shall we?” as they begin their walk home. The simplicity and affection of moments like these are so special and are as integral to the show as the landscape, animals and warm humor.

[@tmmartinesq.6216]

I hope James returns to Glasgow with his Lady Love ❤ !

[@karenleemallonee684]

Amen, ArtfulAmy!

[@mama_knitter]

Not only is this is one of the only shows I can watch with my entire family, I turn it off and I feel happy about how I spent my time. Thank you!!

[@carlhaluss]

The right show at the right time! Even in their interviews on this show, we see what a wonderful group of people they really are. Such sincerity, joy and humbleness. You can't fake that! Brilliant! And thanks a million for doing this amazing interview.

[@Sam4e82]

I will keep watching for as long as it continues. Love the actors, writers producers and directors who keep us engaged with every episode

[@grace7701]

Absolutely love and adore this show, we definitely need more wholesome family shows like this! I hope this show has many many seasons! I could watch this series over and over.

[@tomcarpenter2569]

SEASON #3!! That's fabulous!!! Great news!! Best show ever!! I have recommended this show to so many people. Such a warm family show!!

[@sarahannwhite]

I was a devoted reader of the Herriot books when I was young and have read them all countless times. This series has become my new 'happy place'. I just love it!!! All of the characters have their own charm... Helen's down to earth honesty and beautiful dimples, James's beautiful blue eyes, Siegfried's velvet voice, Mrs Hall's wit, Tristan's sneaky kindnesses...I could go on and on. A great big thanks from New Zealand 🇳🇿 to the magnificent cast and crew. 👏 👏 👏

[@aliceaustin3603]

In the 70's I had to move from northern Vermont (country side) to a urban area in lower New Hampshire. Reading James Herriott's books back in the 70's carried me over to the new life in lower NH. (I just love the countryside). I was skeptical of the new series - but I am totally in love with it! The Season 2, Episode 6 made me cry all the way thru - so heartwarming. Please make more!

[@AmberWaves-WA-State]

Thank you, all for this interview! This show reminds me of how life used to be. Kindness, togetherness, family dinners. I love that it's airing in gloomy January in the US. I wish that there were more episodes

[@VDash-Slesinski]

I was introduced to “All Creatures Great and Small” in 1977. I was serving in the US Army and just arrived in Okinawa. Was in the barracks on a rainy Saturday with nothing to do and hadn’t made any friends yet. I wandered into the day room and selected the book from the bookcase. I fell in love with the story and read the books over and over throughout the years and raised my kids on the stories. I’ve watched the series filmed in the 1970’s several times and am enjoying this version. Well done.

[@susans1829]

@vicki Dash-Slesinski Loving these books as you did… what did you think of the response from the writer and producer when he was asked the question about showing the part of how God and Faith was a very important part of his life in the books…his response was strange…No not going to address that… I don’t think THAT is going to be apart of his character this season…. Strange explanation… yet everyone gushing about the kindness of everyone in these books…and how they really captured the essence of the books… But the relationship with faith? Nah… definitely not… I was just curious on what your opinion of that response from the writer ( Ben) was… because you stated how much you loved the books so much! Do you think that should be left out? Do think it is strange that it is being left out on purpose? Thanks Vicki… I just ordered a James Herriot vintage book because of your love of them!☺️

[@salyluz6535]

@Susan S: I see you don’t have an answer yet, So I’ll toss my tuppence in. The books were very important to me as well. I read them very many times, after growing up on the 1970s TV series. I wanted to be a veterinarian myself, but was not good enough with higher mathematics and sciences beyond Biology. I also realized that the amount of money and time required were beyond my capability. I think it is a sad fact that faith is not very important to most people in modern society anymore. Most likely that is true of the writers and producers, so they just don’t see it as a major part of life, at least not important enough to take up any on-screen time. I have appreciated season one of this remake, but knowing the stories from the book and the 1970s program, I am frequently reminded of things that are being left out. It seems to me that they are skimming the surface in areas where I really wish they could go deeper, and I think expressing their personal faith is a good example. In the 1930s and 40s, even if people did not have deep personal religious convictions, they still participated in the religious life of a village at least due to the cultural and social bonding that occurs in church, choir, etc group settings. I’m sure there are more than enough gems to mine in the original books, so that we could have a new episode every week all year long and still enjoy it! If there were more episodes per season, that would give more leeway for exploring other aspects of life. So I wish we’d see the church as the center of village life, but don’t know if we will. All the best.

[@susans1829]

@Saly Luz Thanks for your reply!!! I really enjoyed your insights about their reluctance to show the full character of this wonderful man… Faith and all! Yet… the success of the show may get the new fans to read the books and they will find out anyway!! Kind regards to you Saly

[@patwagner9308]

Read all of the books (more than once), watched all of the first series, bought the set, didn't know how we'd feel about different actors playing the parts......but all of you are fantastic ! We were hooked when we watched the very first episode. Love the Dales, love the characters , love the clothes, love the humor, love the animals. We need programs like this. They're good for what ails us.

[@kensellers4082]

I didn’t know if I would like the new show after having enjoyed the original ACG&S and its superb cast so much. It was great to see that the new ACG&S and its wonderful cast are as outstanding as were the original show and its actors. I hope the current cast of actors can remain with the show for its entire run, which we all hope will run for many more excellent seasons. PS Anna Madely (Mrs. Hall) sounds very different from her ACG&S character.

[@cherlinsbatcheler5908]

Perfect in every way, it takes us back to a happier way of living than the unsettled unhappy people that we now seem to be! I watch the episodes over and over again, it settles me!

[@nancyjb7080]

This is such a great show...love the characters, writing and actors/actresses; a very moving and touching show

[@helendurfee8926]

I loved the books & the original series. Wouldn't have expected it, but this version is even better! So grateful for all the beauty in writing, scenery and CAST!!

[@lorraing9143]

Love, love, love this show and all the actors. I’m holding off watching the season finale that aired last night here in the U.S. because I do not want it to end. I am originally from the U.K. this show gives me a beautiful taste of home. Thank you. Hope it runs for many more seasons.

[@AmberWaves-WA-State]

Im with you. Im not in a hurry to watch the last one. Trying to extend the pleasure of visiting their world

[@brkaz5864]

Loved the books many many years ago. Loved the original series. This re-boot is knocking it out of the park. Love Love Love.

[@am2320LG]

FAVORITE, FAVORITE SHOW!! Love it and the excellent cast and interview! I could watch each season over and over because it's so calming and good for the soul. 🥰💗💚🤗🤩❤🧡🙌💜💙😍

[@melissaphillips3088]

I can’t say how much I love this show. It is the most wonderfully written and acted show. The scenery is breathtaking. The show is one I hope stays around for years to come. Thank you all for your hard work. It is so lovely to see the people behind this amazing show.

[@d1analockwood499]

This is a show you wished went for 2 hrs at a time, all the actors fit their characters so well & the story line is endearing I do hope it continues for a long long time !!

[@jocl]

I've learned of James Herriot's books after homeschooling my kids. They read James Herriot's Treasury for Children in Year 1 and it was an AMAZING experience learning about the work of this wonderful vet and the English atmosphere--especially for us foreigners. We watched the show after reading the book and we are all now so totally in love with the whole story, and now the characters your represent. Kudos to the producers and actors who create such a wonderful and unforgettable show!!!

[@ccburro1]

This is a GREAT show-delightful! The lead actors/actresses, videography, plots/subplots. (Particularly love Samuel West’s complex Siegfried). The chemistry of the 4 leads-the “Farnon surrogate family” is wonderful.

[@christinepizzi6197]

The actors mean everything in a show and this group is so fantastic together. I knew nothing about these stories before being an American. So lucky to have another fantastic Masterpiece to enjoy.

[@clairewindle2460]

I love everything about this series. We need this right now-what a great escape every week. Thank you to all involved in putting this together!!

[@Janet-lm2dl]

This was such a nice interview! I absolutely adore this show.. the acting is amazing, the sets and costumes are so lovely and the the writing is perfection. Every character has heart and each episode has made me both laugh and cry. So happy to hear that there will be a season three! Thank you all!

[@annmarie3520]

Loved, loved, loved this interview!!!❤️ They have all made my life a happy place!

[@leighlouw555]

Nicholas is a brilliant James, very true to character of what I perceived James to be like from the books. Love his Scottish accent, humility, and good looks.

[@joyshivar7395]

This show just makes me happy.

[@TM-sz1te]

Exactly…it’s brings me joy to watch this show!

[@janicew6222]

The best show I have seen in years, hope it gets renewed for many seasons to come. Great writing, great acting, thank you to all!

[@gailroessler9726]

The casting of the actors and actresses of All Creatures characters have been excellent choices and they all have embraced their roles. I remember watching the show many years ago and was in love with it then. Thanks for bringing back that old flame. So happy to read that it will be around for seasons 3 and 4! Thanks Masterpiece!

[@lizryan6289]

I read the series of books many years ago. I am so grateful for such quality programming during these stressful times. I love this show, adore the characters, and I relish looking at the beauty of Yorkshire. Thank you.

[@amylawrence6848]

This show is so beautiful. It is honest, and kind, and humorous, without being sappy or silly. It has been my favorite series in a long time, and I hope it continues for many more seasons.

[@masterpiecepbs]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@gwynwellliver4489]

We are Farnon brothers fans! Love how the actors portray them. It's been fun to grow older along with Samuel West and watch a wonderful actor develop! Fantastic job as Seigfried!!!

[@mickidumke3242]

Christopher Timothy is 80???? wow... I am old that I thought.... I LOVE this series..... but also I loved the first.... Thank all concerned for the warm fuzzies you give me...

[@zavoina]

I love the “simpler time” showing how hard those times were yet how people related and grew with one another. That transcends the writing to the actors depictions of the characters of the original stories. Loving t and relieved there is a season 3 in the works.

[@margotwelland2459]

I hope the series goes on for as long as the original if not longer ❤️

[@caroljohnson3899]

Fantastic show. I hope it never ends. We all do need something like this, nice and clean and feel good!

[@LillianKüstenfeuer]

Ouch my heart ❤️ thanks SO much for this reunion 🏆👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@run4cmt]

My favorite show of all time!!!!

[@suzic4521]

I absolutely love this show!! I hope it never ends! 😊💛

[@annfarnell1642]

Referring to Hariot’s faith, i am recalling a very touching scene where Anna was waiting for her no show son, so then goes to church alone. But Siegfried shows up, sits with her , they sing a hymn together and walk home. Siegfried for all his bluster is a very kind man.

[@bethnichols7265]

I truly love and admire the show The actors and actresses are the finest the writers in the producers are just as good please keep the series going I'll tell you how much I love it when I was looking on my little KZbin channel here it said that it was supposed to be premiered in December so I was waiting that night to watch the first second season it never came I was so upset on a Friday morning I called and got a 1-800 number to customer service of masterpiece and ask the nice lady how come I did not see all creatures great and small last night when it come up that was supposed to be starting she said well it did but it was in Europe and it won't be seen in the United States until January she was very understanding and I was so glad that I didn't miss the first episode of the second season and I saved the 1-800 number and I told her all of the other shows that I watched are great thanks to each and every one of you keep up the good work and y'all have a blessed day

[@guadalupefestival]

There is soooo much goodness and purity and innocence in this show!!!! I absolutely ADORE it!!!!

[@karenleemallonee684]

Oh my goodness, it's December 2022 & I am so excited for season 3 to start! I don't have a TV that I can get it on, only for watching DVD's. Anyway I watch on my phone and someday hope to see all the beauty on a lot grandeur size!!! I read the books about a year before the series began, I'm so glad I did...I love you all!!! 🌼

[@kimjamison1655]

I loved the series when it was broadcast years ago and was looking forward to this one, which didn't disappoint.

[@daphnekivinen9482]

Words do not describe the fun and enjoyment that I get from watching this true masterpiece!

[@pssp8939]

Yay!!!! Season 333333333333!!!!!!!!!

[@leighlouw555]

I think the show would have been successful at any time, not only due to covid. It’s so wonderful to be able to enjoy a simple, kind, loving, funny show for a change. I agree. It is the writing, performances, actors, and the Dales - everything is beautiful.

[@katiem6773]

This is such a great version of ACGAS. The writing, acting and scenery are so well done and creates such good feelings. Thank you. It's so needed just now. Excited to see more seasons.

[@JamesDavis-sh9gh]

Love the new series as much as I loved the original one. A perfect tonic for hard times like now.

[@JSDJerry]

This was wonderful. We’ve seen all episodes of season two twice (through pbs passport) already! We’re ready to rewatch it again starting from season 1. Love the interview and appreciate the charm of all those who participated. Would love to sit down and have a pint with each of you..

[@anneboorder240]

I rather liked this chat,,,,,,,,,,,,It is wonderful that the cast really get on well together ,,,and their answers were so spontaneous, I thought it was particularly endearing when Samuel West mentioned the e-mail from Christopher Timothy,, . ,I really love this show,,..,and would like it to go on for a long time.....NOTE TO WRITERS....stretch it out as long as possible LOL.

[@blumberg1982]

I love this show so much as well! It’s the absolute best and being able to watch here in the States is a real treat!

[@AmyJo5578]

I was excited for this series. I have watched the old one and read the books and I adored them. I was excited for the cast, it looked amazing. Its different but just so great that I love it. Great job everyone!

[@pssp8939]

A lively show for the younger generation as well. A good family show with such warmth & beauty....... TRISTAN keeps the fun in the show and we love it

[@pssp8939]

Yay!!!! Season 333333333333!!!!!!!!!

[@nolagirl7082]

LOVE LOVE LOVE this show! It makes me happy when I watch it, just like Downton Abbey used to make me happy. Anna Medeley is my fave! She plays Mrs. Hall so good! I was super impressed with how talented she is. Her performance is so believable and real

[@donnakufus8087]

Lovely in so many ways. This interview set-up was great. Thank you to all. Ready for season 3!!!

[@janlorman7700]

So love this version of one of my favorites. Great interview and fun to get to know the actors a bit better.

[@marciabarber2552]

So sad when this season (2) ended last week, I will truly miss all these folks. There is no weak link in this great cast, and like everyone said, we desperately need a weekly dose of kindness, humor, and the beautiful Dales. Thanks to all.

[@dora2430]

we love this show, we can't wait with season 3.

[@am2320LG]

Yay! Season 3 coming! 😍💙💜🙌🧡❤🤩🤗

[@AmberWaves-WA-State]

Nicholas Ralph looks completely different with a modern haircut and shadow beard. It was good that he talked so that I could recognize James! 🙂

[@VousEtre]

Loved the books and first series so much but this is really well done. Drawback is I always have to make a pot of tea and snack to watch it! Want more animal scenes with farm humour. Such fun in books to see James’ genuine enjoyment of farmers POV and humor in dealing with sometimes harsh lifestyles. More Nigel Havers! And where’d they get that bull!? He was enormous!

[@lauriehaggith6297]

Love the show and all the actors!!

[@tina8796]

Hello from Tennessee ! Love these shows and all the characters. Well cast and such a sweet, lovely series

[@tamaraelinaartist]

Oh this is awesome! I missed the QAs earlier and caught up now. Very in depth interview with everyone and I hope we see more over time. My Mum and I are looking forward to watching Season 2 (and 3🎉)! Lots of love to you all, keep safe and well💛 Hugs from Vancouver 🇨🇦😊🐶 ps Mr. Nicholas Ralph your beard looks Great!☺️

[@lindaking9222]

The series is cast perfectly…it is an outstanding program

[@ellinward9488]

E from Texas. Read first book saw movie , aware of poor farms during time between wars . Beautiful 😍 job you'all!

[@hbwoofspeedride4103]

I really cant wait for more seasons!!!

[@jimbear8888]

My favorite show with wonderful actors!!♥️♥️

[@kensellers4082]

Rachel Shenton is a very talented and obviously extremely beautiful actress; she is a worthy successor to the talented and beautiful Carol Drinkwater.

[@philippapay4352]

The skyscapes of the Yorkshire Dales, having played so prominently in both the original series on PBS and then in the film of "Calendar Girls," I found that living in the NE of the US when I watched a British drama called "Last Tango in Halifax" I thought it took place in Nova Scotia until I saw the skies. It suddenly dawned on me that there must be a Halifax in Yorkshire because I knew those skyscapes I was now being treated to once again. Certain places I have visited or lived, like San Francisco, have such distinctive sky patterns or maybe we just fall in love with something we find beautiful, dramatic, or comfortable in its changeling iterations. I am thrilled that this series is enamoring us of the earth & sky around the people & animals once again.

[@ellenshaw7268]

Like a breath of fresh air🤗

[@garaldpatrica4985]

They are all so much younger than I expected. I love the cast!!

[@maryfredrick9745]

Love it love it love it!

[@becharb]

all wonderful, and I was skeptical that it would be balanced and yet up-to-date! Brilliant writing and brillieant cast

[@allangriesemer4005]

Am I the only one who felt that Mrs. Hall was secretly in love with Sigfied?

[@alexisnewell3672]

Definitely exceeded all expectations brilliant cast 👏 adore the mall so lovable love from Australia ❤❤

[@cynthiacpasadeos7833]

WOOHOO! Season 3

[@carolcisko6768]

Love the show ❤️

[@franchristensen6274]

Love All Creatures Great & Small. James is my favorite!

[@jamesa3779]

Samuel West's bookshelves are amazing. He has like a dozen D&D books that I can see.

[@praveenjain5187]

i loved this show.. i wish it becomes available in India on mainstream OTT platform

[@TM-sz1te]

My absolute favourite show. There isn’t a character that I don’t love!

[@marymoore7876]

I want to watch the show!

[@maureensawatzki7917]

I love this show and all the characters.

[@khadijagwen]

I want season 3.

[@davidvaughan1263]

Wonderful!

[@marilys3549]

I love the wholesome characters,which is true to the time. No modern-day moral trashing the stories. The scenery is beautiful, the animals are great. The story holds to the books like the original stories. As I said before no trash morals add in, keep up the high standards. 👏

[@kaystegin3115]

I love Anna Madely as Mrs Hall! What does it matter the age of the character in the older series?!

[@bearwoody]

No one is asking about the costumes. Helen, and especially Mrs. Hall, don't get much that's special to wear, but I wonder if the actors aren't tempted to knick a jacket, vest, sweater, or pair of trousers. Such fantastic clothes!

[@lindaking9222]

Great to know there will be a third series …..after watching a program,I find myself slipping into the accent which is similar to Lancashire where I come from

[@voyageinthepast8752]

I love Mrs H 😃

[@janetmaxwell222]

Very adept cast...intelligent

[@sunshine9016]

The original All Creatures Great & Small was Great so you all had a hard act to follow. However, as a huge fan of the original I just want to tell you all that I'm delighted with the way you rose to the challenge and I am enjoying it on PBS Buffalo. Thank you!!

[@loriluton9869]

Nothing better than the original from the 70’s with Christopher Timothy, Robert Hardy and Peter Davison.