In 2020 British television network Channel 5 debuted a new adaptation of the 1970s novel series All Creatures Great and Small, which follows the experiences of a veterinary surgeon in 1930s England.

PBS picked up the series, which has become 5’s biggest drama since the Paramount-owned network returned to producing scripted television, and in 2025  it was used as an example in a Pact report as one of the biggest exports from the UK to the US. Season seven and eight have been confirmed, with season six of All Creatures Great and Small debuting earlier in January. But why has it found its way into the hearts of Americans?

© Channel 5
Cast members from All Creatures Great and Small

The novels were written by Alf Wight under the pen name of James Herriot, also the name of the main character. Alf was a veterinary surgeon and used his own real-life experiences, and those of his friends, Donald Sinclair and his brother Brian Sinclair, to write a series of books set in England’s Yorkshire Dales.

The BBC adapted the series in the 1980s, and it was rebooted in 2020, with Samuel West as the eccentric Siegfried Farnon, a veterinary surgeon and owner of Skeldale House who hires James to join the practice alongside Siegfried’s younger brother, Tristan, and Mrs Hall, their housekeeper.

Nicholas Ralph, Rachel Shenton, Samuel West, Callum Woodhouse and Anna Madeley star in All Creatures Great and Small

Set in the mid-late 1930s with the threat of a World War on the horizon, the series has been praised by many for highlighting what some consider a more idyllic way of life, before technology and a growing global economy changed the ways we interact with each other and turned kindness into a commodity.

Despite its era, it has also made strides to give the female characters agency, particularly Rachel Shenton’s farmhand Helen, and critics have enjoyed the series; it has a 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

© Helen Williams / ©Playground Television UK Ltd. 2025 / © 5 Broadcasting Limited
Sister Rose (Elexi Walker) in All Creatures Great and Small

The Boston Globe has praised it for delivering “kindness, loyalty, simplicity, and, at a time when our relationship with the environment is strained, a deep respect for the natural world,” while the Vox wrote: “The main reason I recommend the show is that it will allow you to lose yourself in a world where everyone is just a little bit kinder, just a little bit sweeter, just a little bit better.”

That kindness, and a focus on simple values of friendship and community, drew American viewers to the show as well — the first season was watched by over 10 million U.S. viewers.

“For six seasons, All Creatures Great and Small has delighted our MASTERPIECE PBS audience,” Susanne Simpson, Head of Scripted Content and Executive Producer, told HELLO!

“When Playground Entertainment came to us with this series, we absolutely had to be a part of it. From the heartwarming animal moments to the kindness of those in the Darrowby community, we knew our audience would love it. We’re proud to be telling these stories and thrilled that this beloved show has been renewed for seasons seven and eight.”

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Rachel Shenton in All Creatures Great and Small

“How utterly fantastic was that show last night!!!” read one comment from an American fan on the show’s official Facebook page. “From the opening credits to the final scene…..incredibly funny and heartwarming!! Loved every minute and hope they enjoyed bringing it to us as we enjoyed their superb performance!!!!”

“Best show on TV!” and “love every episode!” read other comments.

It’s release in the US came in early 2021, when the world was still in the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic with a craving for community, and a slower pace of life, and four days after rioters stormed the US Capitol weeks before Joe Biden took over the presidency.

© FOCUS FEATURES / Rory Mulvey
Downton Abbey has been a success in America for similar reasons

“Suddenly there was nothing I wanted to watch more than this gentle show, with its low-stakes plotting, lush scenery, adorable animals, and ensemble of fundamentally nice people,” wrote Rolling Stone at the time, calling it “an incredible balm, and a welcome contrast … to the dumpster fire of our own reality”.

American TV has long been known for a darker, heavier edge, which has made shows such as The Sopranos or The Wire a success globally.

But American viewers have instead long craved the cosy nature of British television that comes with only the best of intentions – just look at the success of shows such as Downton Abbeyand The Great British Bake Off – and that’s what All Creatures Great and Small gives fans, an earnest reminder of a better time but one that isn’t afraid to make adjustments to ensure an inclusivity that feels modern.