Skip to main contentSkip to footer

Viewers have same reaction to A Suitable Boy - including Fern Britton! 

The new series is based in 1950s India


suitable boy
Emmy Griffiths
TV & Film Editor
27 July 2020
Share this:

Plenty of viewers tuned in to watch BBC's new drama A Suitable Boy on Sunday night. Based on the 1993 novel of the same name, the story follows Lata Mehra, a university student in India who wants to make her own way in life, while her mother is obsessed that she meet a 'suitable boy'. 

READ: Meet the all-star cast of BBC's A Suitable Boy

While fans and critics alike were hugely complimentary about the series, some people took to Twitter to in the episode, suggesting it was too slow. One person wrote: "Quite slow, but holding promise. I persevered and I think it will pick up. I do think the characters could’ve done with a bit more introduction," while another added: "I was really looking forward to it as I love anything set in India, the scenery the culture etc. I lasted [ten] minutes I'm afraid. Soooooo slow. Shame." 

suitable boy 6

What do you think of the new BBC drama?

However, others defended the opening episode, with one writing: "Don't get why everyone's hating on #ASuitableBoy - yes it's not the fastest paced thing out there but if you want fast-paced might I suggest that an adaptation of a very long family saga might not be the best thing to watch?" 

MORE: Gloria Steinem brands Mrs America 'ridiculous' and reveals what really happened

Aside from some viewers struggling with the pacing, the episode was generally very well received, with one fan writing: "Enjoyed it very much. It will be a colourful watch the costumes are beautiful the actors excellent and the history of partition will be an interesting lesson.  Enjoy when you get a chance."

suitable boy 2

The show is based on the 1993 novel

Fern Britton also voiced her excitement about watching the new series, tweeting: "I am really looking forward to #ASuitableBoy starting on @BBCONE tomorrow. I love India and have always wanted a beautiful sari and I have a soft spot for men in turbans. So dashing." 

Sign up to HELLO Daily! for the best royal, celebrity and lifestyle coverage

By entering your details, you are agreeing to HELLO! Magazine User Data Protection Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more information, please click here.