All Creatures Great and Small has two major TV adaptations, each with multiple series (often called "seasons" interchangeably). The original BBC version ran from 1978-1990 with seven series total, while the modern Channel 5/PBS reboot (2020-present) has reached six series as of late 2025, with more confirmed ahead.

Original BBC Series (1978-1990)

This adaptation starred Christopher Timothy as James Herriot and faithfully captured the Yorkshire Dales veterinary tales from Alf Wight's books.

  • Series breakdown : Three initial series (1978-1980), followed by four more (1988-1990), totaling 90 episodes plus Christmas specials.
  • It paused mid-run but is seen as one continuous run by fans, blending book-based stories with original scripts.
  • Iconic for its warm, nostalgic feel—think cozy pub chats amid calving crises—over 600 supporting characters brought the rural world alive.

Modern Reboot (2020-Present)

The fresh take, filmed in the Yorkshire Dales, stars Nicholas Ralph as Herriot with a brighter, more cinematic vibe suited to today's audiences.

  • Series count : Six series aired by 2025 (Series 5 premiered September 2024; Series 6 includes a Christmas special), renewed for seventh and eighth.
  • Each series packs six episodes plus holiday specials, renewed steadily since its pandemic-era debut that offered light escapism.
  • In January 2026, fans buzz about Series 6 wrapping up arcs like Tristan Farnon's return, blending WWII tensions with heartwarming animal antics.

Adaptation| Total Series| Episodes/Series| Key Renewal Notes| Status (Jan 2026) 135
---|---|---|---|---
BBC (1978)| 7| Varies (avg. 12-14)| Two runs: 3 + 4 series| Complete (90 eps total)
Channel 5 (2020)| 6 (more coming)| 6 + Christmas special| Renewed to Series 8| Ongoing; Series 6 recent

"Whether you’re revisiting old episodes or discovering them anew... each season offers something special—a reminder of simpler joys."

Fans on Reddit debate old vs. new: some cherish the BBC's gritty authenticity, others love the reboot's "light and fun" energy during tough times like COVID. No major 2026 updates yet, but with renewals locked in, expect more Darrowby drama soon—perfect for cozy winter viewing.

TL;DR : BBC has 7 series; 2020 version has 6 series so far (7-8 confirmed)—total across both: 13 series.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.