David Tennant Fronted Jules Verne Adaptation Around The World In 80 Days Lands At BBC

BBC has secured the UK rights to a new television adaptation of Around the World in Eighty Days, with David Tennant leading the cast in the title role.

The ambitious period adventure reimagines Jules Verne’s classic 1872 novel, following the story of gentleman adventurer Phileas Fogg as he attempts to circumnavigate the globe in just 80 days. Tennant stars as Fogg, a more emotionally layered version of the iconic character, driven by both personal and public motivations.

The series presents a modernised take on the source material, expanding the scope of the journey while introducing new characters and perspectives. Alongside Tennant, the cast includes Ibrahim Koma as Passepartout and Leonie Benesch as journalist Abigail Fix, a newly created role who joins the journey and challenges traditional views of the era.

Produced as a large scale international co production, the series was filmed across multiple countries to authentically capture the global nature of Fogg’s race against time. Lavish sets, period costumes and sweeping landscapes feature prominently, positioning the drama as a flagship adventure series for the BBC.

Unlike earlier adaptations, this version places greater emphasis on character development and social context. Themes of colonialism, gender equality and cultural exchange are woven into the narrative, aiming to reflect contemporary sensibilities while remaining faithful to the spirit of Verne’s original work.

David Tennant’s casting has been central to the project’s appeal, marking another high profile television role for the actor following acclaimed performances across drama and genre television. His portrayal of Fogg presents the character as flawed, vulnerable and evolving, rather than purely eccentric or aloof.

The adaptation was originally developed by European broadcaster partners, with the BBC joining the project to bring the series to UK audiences. It will air on BBC One and be made available on BBC iPlayer, reflecting the broadcaster’s ongoing investment in high end literary adaptations.

BBC executives have positioned the series as a family friendly event drama, designed to appeal across generations. The combination of adventure, humour and emotional storytelling aims to make the classic tale accessible to both new viewers and long time fans of the novel.

A UK broadcast date has yet to be confirmed, but the series is expected to air as a major scheduling highlight. With David Tennant at the helm and Jules Verne’s timeless story at its core, Around the World in 80 Days is set to become one of the BBC’s most anticipated drama releases.