ITV are planning an adaptation of 19th century novel ‘Vanity Fair’.
The broadcaster have teamed up with ‘Poldark’s Mammoth Screen and writer Gwyneth Hughes to bring the popular book to the small screen for the first time on its network in a six-part series, costing £10 million.
A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "Becky Sharp is a trailblazing and modern heroine, and her fearless ambition and meteoric rise will resonate with a contemporary audience. Gwyneth is thrilled to be bringing Becky’s adventures to a whole new generation of viewers.
"Like ‘Poldark’, ‘Vanity Fair’ will have high end production values, lavish costumes and opulent set designs.
"We’ll be looking to cast a high profile young actress to play the unforgettable heroine Becky Sharp."
The team are also hoping to secure a well known actress for the female lead. Names considered for the role include ‘Game of Thrones’ stars Emilia Clarke, Natalie Dormer and Rose Leslie as well as Cara Delevingne and former ‘Coronation Street’ beauty Michelle Keegan.
The novel on which the show is to be based – penned by William Makepeace Thackeray – follows orphan Becky’s struggle as she tries to establish herself as part of society at whatever cost with a leg up from her old school friend Amelia Sedley.
The BBC have tried their hand at adapting the popular novel no less than four times before.
In 1956, Joyce Redman took the lead role for Becky, whilst Susan Hampshire won a Emmy Award for her portrayal of the female lead.
The show was reincarnated in 1987 and was split into 16 half-an-hour episodes with the cast spearheaded by Eve Matheson. In 1998, Natasha Little – who recently starred in ‘The Night Manager’ – took on the leading role.
ITV plan £10m Vanity Fair adaptation
