Malory Towers (TV series)
| Malory Towers | |
|---|---|
| Genre | Historical drama |
| Created by |
|
| Based on | Malory Towers by Enid Blyton |
| Directed by |
|
| Starring |
|
| Composers |
|
| Country of origin | United Kingdom Canada |
| Original language | English |
| No. of series | 5 |
| No. of episodes | 74 |
| Production | |
| Executive producers |
|
| Producers |
|
| Production locations | |
| Cinematography |
|
| Editors |
|
| Camera setup | Single-camera |
| Running time | 30 minutes |
| Production companies |
|
| Original release | |
| Network | |
| Release | 6 April 2020 – present |
Malory Towers is a 2020s British-Canadian historical drama television series based on the eponymous book series of the same name by Enid Blyton.
The first series were released early on BBC iPlayer on 23 March 2020, and later premiered on CBBC on 6 April 2020 in the United Kingdom. In Canada, the show premiered on The Family Channel with a two-part event on 1 July 2020. In the United States, it premiered on BYUtv on 13 September 2020. The third season premiered on 4 July 2022 on CBBC.
Internationally, the series is broadcast on CBC Gem in Canada, ABC Me in Australia, ZDF and KiKA in Germany, Rai Gulp in Italy, e-Junior in the United Arab Emirates, Yle TV2 in Finland, SVT Barn in Sweden, NRK Super in Norway, HBO Max in Scandinavia, Space Power TV and Spacetoon Go in Middle East and HOT in Israel.[1][2]
In 2022 a fourth series entered production.[3] On 8 May 2023, the fourth series was released.
A fifth series consisting of an expanded 20 episodes was announced and filmed in 2023, with full production taking place in the United Kingdom after interiors were previously filmed in Canada.[4][5] A sixth and seventh series consisting of 10 episodes each has been announced.[6]
Premise
[edit]Set in 1940s post-World War II England - beginning in 1947[7] - the show follows the adventures of 12-year-old Darrell Rivers as she leaves home to attend an all-girls' boarding school and explores a nostalgic world of midnight feasts, lacrosse, pranks, a mystery ghost and lasting friendships. The TV series updates Blyton's post-war period piece for a modern audience with a racially diverse and inclusive cast.
Cast
[edit]Main cast
[edit]- Ella Bright as Darrell Rivers, an intelligent and excitable girl who has recently been expelled from her previous school (St Hilda's- Series 1 Episode 5 The Match). Darrell has word-blindness.[8][9]
- Danya Griver as Gwendoline Mary Lacey, a spoiled and callous girl who has been homeschooled by a Governess her whole life up until enrolling in Malory Towers.[10][11]
- Zoey Siewert as Alicia Johns (Seasons 1–2; 4–), a naughty and rebellious Canadian girl who influences Darrell into playing tricks. Her parents work overseas so she is full-board.[12][13]
- Sienna Arif-Knights as Sally Hope, a mature but moody girl who is unknowingly sick. She later becomes Darrell's best friend.[14][15]
- Imogen Lamb as Mary-Lou Linnet, a naive girl and the youngest of Darrell's form.[16]
- Natasha Raphael as Irene Edwards (recurring season 1; main season 2–), a ditzy but sweet girl who is talented at Music and Maths but struggles with other subjects.[17]
- Beth Bradfield as Jean Dunlop (recurring season 1; main season 2–), a mature girl who is intelligent and talented at Lacrosse.[18][19][20]
- Ashley McGuire as Matron Kathleen (Recurring season 1; main seasons 2–4), the Matron of the North Tower girls. Though she is strict, she does mean well.[21] She later leaves Malory Towers.
- Carys John as Ellen Wilson (seasons 2–3), a clever Scholarship student who is initially the reluctant best friend of Gwendoline, but eventually leaves her for the other girls. It is revealed that in the Christmas Special, she is moved up a form.
- Amelie Green as Wilhelmina 'Bill' Robinson (season 3–), a tomboyish, sheltered girl who loves horses and keeps a Horse named Thunder, who she considers her “best friend” and insists on seeing.[22]
- Jennifer Wigmore (recurring Season 1; guest Christmas Special; main season 4–)[23] as Miss Elizabeth Grayling, the good-natured Headmistress at Malory Towers.
- Jude Harper-Wrobel as Ron Gilson (recurring seasons 1–3, 5; main season 4), the school gardener whose family lives near Malory Towers. He is friends with Darrell and often assists her. In between seasons 3 and 4 Ron starts helping his uncle and begins training to be a fisherman.
- Geneviève Beaudet as Mam’Zelle Rougier (recurring seasons 1–3; main season 4–), the French teacher at Malory Towers. She is strict and hyper-critical, but later gets better and listening and interacting. In addition to teaching, she oversees the girls when they reach the Fourth Form as their mistress. She marries Irene's father in season 4.
- Jason Callender[23] as Mr. Parker (recurring season 2; main season 4–), the Second Form master for Darrell's form then Felicity's form master.[24]
- Karl Theobald as Mr. Edwards (season 4), Irene's father who marries Mam’Zelle Rougier
- April V Woods as Felicity Rivers (recurring season 4; main season 5), Darrell's younger sister.[25][26] The character was originally played by Minti Gorne in seasons 1 through 3.[27]
- Edesiri Paula Okpenerho as June Johns (recurring season 4; main season 5), Alicia's troublesome younger cousin [28][29]
- Amy Roerig as Clarissa Carter (recurring season 4; main season 5), a member of Felecity's form. Clarissa loves to play sports, but after the doctor says she has a weak heart it limits the activities she can participate in. It is later revealed that Clarissa suffers from Graves' disease, which has been causing her to have the symptoms of a weak heart when that's not actually the cause.
- Ava Azizi as Susan Heather (recurring season 4; main season 5), a member of Felicity's form that is a bit mischievous but also respects and honours the rules. She serves as the head of form during the girls first year.
- Kimia Lamour as Connie Batten (recurring season 4; main season 5), one of the twins in Felicity's form. Connie excels at athletics but has a hard time reading and studying history.
- Aviella Burch as Ruth Batten (recurring season 4; main season 5), one of the twins in Felicity's form. Ruth has an excellent history of finding good references for essays in the library, but she is only average at athletics.
- Emily Costtrici as Josephine "Jo" Jones (season 5), a new girl in the second form from a wealthy family who disregards the rules.
- Amanda Lawrence (season 5) as Matron Shipley, Kathleen's replacement who is extremely strict, even more so than Matron Kathleen.
Recurring cast
[edit]- Twinkle Jaiswal as Katherine (Season 1), a strict but fun girl and the Head of First Form.
- Saskia Kemkers as Emily (Season 1), an intelligent but private girl.
- Hannah Saxby as Pamela (Season 1), an athletic older girl who is later revealed to be a Debutante.[30]
- Imali Perera as Miss Potts (Season 1), the kind but strict Maths, Science and Art teacher. She is the First Form mistress.
- Christine Horne as Margaret (Season 1), the assistant to Matron Kathleen.
- Birgitte Solem (Seasons 2–3) as Miss Elizabeth Grayling, the good-natured Headmistress at Malory Towers.
- Edie Whitehead as Georgina Thomas (Season 2), a wealthy girl whose father is quite snobby and mean.
- Christien Anholt as Mr. Lacey (Season 3 & Christmas Special; guest season 5), Gwendoline's strict father.
- Emily Piggford as Miss Julia Johnson and Jennifer Johnson (Season 3), a pair of twin criminals. Miss Julia Johnson is a trained teacher, but Jennifer Johnson pretends to be her at times.
- Bre Francis as Mavis (Season 3), an older girl who is talented at singing.
- Charles Jackson as Fred Gilson (Christmas Special– ), Ron's little brother. After being introduced in the Christmas Special Fred is asked to take Ron's place as a gardener at Malory Towers when Ron gets asked to help his uncle and become a fisherman.
- Louis Tamone as Mr. Jones (Season 5-), Josephine's rich but kind father
- Gerald Kyd as Mr. Murray (Season 5), an archeologist who comes to look for lost treasure.
- Sophie Harkness as Jane Shipley (Season 5), a nurse and Matron Shipley's younger sister who originally came to Malory Towers to visit her sister but gets roped into being temporary Matron
Episodes
[edit]| Series | Episodes | Originally aired | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First aired | Last aired | |||
| 1 | 13 | 6 April 2020 | 29 June 2020 | |
| 2 | 13 | 22 November 2021 | 7 February 2022 | |
| 3 | 13 | 4 July 2022 | 19 September 2022 | |
| 3S | 2 | 5 December 2022 | 6 December 2022 | |
| 4 | 13 | 8 May 2023 | 13 June 2023 | |
| 5 | 20 | 10 June 2024 | 3 December 2024 | |
Series 1 (2020)
[edit]| No. | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original release date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | "The First Day" | Bruce McDonald | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 6 April 2020 (CBBC) 13 September 2020 (BYUtv) | |
|
New girls Darrell Rivers, Sally Hope and Gwendoline Mary Lacey arrive for their first day at Malory Towers, their new school on a clifftop location above an idyllic coastline. They meet Miss Grayling, the wise and dignified headmistress, no-nonsense First Form mistress Miss Potts, and the stern Matron. Gwendoline hopes that she and Darrell will be best friends, but is due for an unpleasant surprise. | |||||
| 2 | "The New Girls" | Bruce McDonald | Julie Dixon | 13 April 2020 (CBBC) 13 September 2020 (BYUtv) | |
|
Darrell is hopeful of securing a place on the junior lacrosse team, but misses the trials when her sports shoes mysteriously disappear. However, Head Girl Pamela includes Darrell as first reserve. Meanwhile, jealous Gwen is determined to get to the bottom of Darrell's past at St. Hilda's. | |||||
| 3 | "The Trick" | Bruce McDonald | Richie Conroy and Mark Hodkinson | 20 April 2020 (CBBC) 20 September 2020 (BYUtv) | |
|
Alicia's new trick sweets are confiscated by Matron, with unfortunate results when Matron unwisely samples one herself. Alicia and Darrell devise another trick with riotous results in Mam'zelle Rougier's French class. When Gwen sneaks to Matron, Darrell needs to think quickly to avoid being reported to Miss Grayling, but still has to face a difficult interview with Miss Potts. | |||||
| 4 | "The Slap" | Rebecca Rycroft | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 27 April 2020 (CBBC) 27 September 2020 (BYUtv) | |
|
Gwen's unpleasant side surfaces when she bullies timid Mary-Lou in the swimming pool. Darrell loses her temper and does something unspeakable to Gwen. The First Formers hold a form meeting to decide what should be done, which leaves Mary-Lou devoted to Darrell and Gwen more resentful than ever. | |||||
| 5 | "The Match" | Rebecca Rycroft | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 4 May 2020 (CBBC) 4 October 2020 (BYUtv) | |
|
Sally suffers a stomach ache and drops out of the lacrosse team. Darrell replaces her as first reserve. But when Malory Towers' opponents are unexpectedly replaced by St. Hilda's, her old school, Darrell finds herself having to face her past. In this, she receives good advice from Mary-Lou and Sally, while Gwen hears some home truths. | |||||
| 6 | "The Midnight Feast" | Rebecca Rycroft | Julia Kent | 11 May 2020 (CBBC) 11 October 2020 (BYUtv) | |
|
It is Alicia's birthday and she receives a generous food hamper. She plans a midnight feast in North Tower, but Darrell is reluctant to lose sleep on the night before an important examination. Gwen, to her horror, discovers that exam marks are sent to parents. When the midnight feast is interrupted by Matron, forcing the girls to hide in Miss Grayling's study, Gwen finds an opportunity to cheat in the exam. | |||||
| 7 | "The Open Day" | Rebecca Rycroft | Kate Hewlett | 18 May 2020 (CBBC) 18 October 2020 (BYUtv) | |
|
It is half term and Malory Towers welcomes the girls' parents to an open day of picnics and sporting events. Mary-Lou is invited to a picnic by Gwen with her mother, and has to endure Gwen's untruthful boasting about her academic and sporting prowess. Meanwhile Darrell is worried about the poor grades in her half term report and struggles to find a companion to introduce to her parents as her best friend. | |||||
| 8 | "The Push" | Rebecca Rycroft | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 25 May 2020 (CBBC) 25 October 2020 (BYUtv) | |
|
Sally behaves oddly whenever her baby sister is mentioned. Darrell joins the remedial class, taken by Head Girl Pamela, to improve her grades. When Sally is again taken ill with stomach pains, Matron is dismissive, believing she ate too many strawberries at the open day. But Darrell believes otherwise, fearing she may have been the cause. She does all she can to find a doctor so that Sally can be treated. Sally had suffered from appendicitis and got treated by Darrell's father. | |||||
| 9 | "The Letter" | Rebecca Rycroft | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 1 June 2020 (CBBC) 1 November 2020 (BYUtv) | |
|
The Malory Towers ghost appears again, seen by Sally who is recovering in the sanatorium. Darrell, still worried about Sally's behaviour, has written to Sally's mother. Her good intentions backfire when Sally disappears after her mother decides to remove her from Malory Towers. Gwen volunteers to replace Sally as Pamela's monitor, with catastrophic results. Pamela, meanwhile, makes a discovery that seems to explain Darrell's slowness in class. | |||||
| 10 | "The Dress" | Bruce McDonald | Richie Conroy and Mark Hodkinson | 8 June 2020 (CBBC) 8 November 2020 (BYUtv) | |
|
A beautiful dress arrives at Malory Towers and there is much speculation as to who the owner might be. Darrell replaces Gwen as Pamela's monitor, but is disappointed when she finds out that Pamela has changed her plans to train as a teacher, and will be leaving Malory Towers. | |||||
| 11 | "The Spider" | Bruce McDonald | Richie Conroy and Mark Hodkinson | 15 June 2020 (CBBC) 15 November 2020 (BYUtv) | |
|
Timid Mary-Lou is terrified of spiders and falls victim to several spiteful tricks, including the appearance of a large spider that creates mayhem in the French class. Darrell and Sally devise a plan to improve Mary-Lou's confidence, after which the girls buy her a beautiful fountain pen to remind her of her bravery. Meanwhile, Alicia devises a plan to get Sally out of the San. | |||||
| 12 | "The Ghost" | Bruce McDonald | Kate Hewlett | 22 June 2020 (CBBC) 22 November 2020 (BYUtv) | |
|
Darrell and Sally, now best friends, decide to track down the Malory Towers ghost. Sally marks all the sightings of the ghost on a map and the girls mount a night-time watch. After a series of adventures in the dark, involving a secret passage and a family drama, the mystery is finally solved. Meanwhile a jealous act of spite is directed at Mary-Lou. | |||||
| 13 | "The Last Day" | Bruce McDonald | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 29 June 2020 (CBBC) 29 November 2020 (BYUtv) | |
|
It is the last day of term. The girls are horrified when Mary-Lou discovers her new fountain pen has been deliberately smashed. The evidence seems to point to Darrell, who must defend herself to the rest of the form. But Mary-Lou's faith in Darrell is unshaken and it is she who finds the evidence that reveals the real culprit. | |||||
Series 2 (2021)
[edit]| No. | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original release date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | "The Head of Form" | Bruce McDonald | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 22 November 2021 (BBC iPlayer) 27 February 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
The girls are now in the second form at Malory Towers. They are joined by newcomers Ellen Wilson, a scholarship girl, and Mr Parker, the new master of the second form. One of the first tasks for the girls is to elect a new Head of Form, and must choose between three candidates. Meanwhile Darrell's dyslexia continues to cause problems for her. | |||||
| 15 | "The Dunce's Cap" | Bruce McDonald | Matt Evans | 22 November 2021 (BBC iPlayer) 27 February 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Matron advises Mr Parker to take a firm hand with the second form girls, else they will be out of control. His solution is to introduce the girls to the "Dunce's Cap," much to their discomfort. They respond using Alicia's new pink chalk trick. The girls discover there is a talented artist in their midst when a sharply-drawn caricature of Mr Parker is found. | |||||
| 16 | "The Stray" | Bruce McDonald | Rob Kinsman | 22 November 2021 (BBC iPlayer) 27 February 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
When Matron's smoked kippers disappear, she suspects there may be a thief at Malory Towers. The mystery is solved when Ellen finds a stray cat in the grounds, but finds herself in trouble when she decides to adopt it. As more caricatures appear, the girls notice a clue that enables them to identify the unknown artist. | |||||
| 17 | "The Auditions" | Gary Williams | Wally Jiagoo | 22 November 2021 (BBC iPlayer) 27 February 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
A school play featuring Lady Jane Malory is planned. Gwen auditions for the lead role with Darrell's help, but things do not work out as she had planned. After the girls discover that Malory Towers may be in financial difficulties, Darrell and Sally embark on a search for Lady Jane's long-lost jewels, but do not allow for Alicia's mischievous nature. | |||||
| 18 | "The Caricatures" | Gary Williams | Shazia Rashid | 22 November 2021 (BBC iPlayer) 27 February 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
It is Alicia's birthday and, to her dismay, her usual hamper from her parents fails to arrive. The girls decide to bake a cake to cheer her up, but their plans are interrupted when a furious Mam'zelle Rougier discovers a caricature showing her being spoon-fed cod liver oil by Matron. A softer side of Matron is seen when she saves the cake and placates Mam'zelle. | |||||
| 19 | "The Runaway" | Gary Williams | Julie Dixon | 22 November 2021 (BBC iPlayer) 27 February 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Ellen worries that her Malory Towers scholarship may be taken away from her if she does not perform well in her academic work. Despite overworking to prepare for a class test, she convinces herself that she is a failure and, distraught, runs away. Gwen's preparations for the school play, meanwhile, are not going well, and the rumour that Malory Towers may be forced to close because of financial problems is spreading wider. | |||||
| 20 | "The Play" | Gary Williams | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 22 November 2021 (BBC iPlayer) 27 February 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
It's Open Day at Malory Towers, and Miss Grayling recruits Darrell's help to show a potential school investor, Mr. Thomas, a tour of the school. Matron learns that Malory Towers could close and begins searching for other suitors that might have her. Meanwhile Gwen swears her friends to secrecy about her Father's illness, but when Grandma Margo asks Gwen's mom if her husband is feeling any better it could cause problems. Finally Darrell is called on at last minute to fill-in for Gwen in the play because Gwen's mom confronts her about lies. | |||||
| 21 | "The Measles" | Bruce McDonald | Matt Evans | 22 November 2021 (BBC iPlayer) 27 February 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Georgina goes to Matron seeking some anti itching medicine only to learn the spots she's broken out in are the measles, forcing her into isolation. Meanwhile Mr. Parker goes to Matron because he's developed a fever. Matron decides to use his time in the nurse's office to read her newly published play. With Mr. Parker out, Sally is left in charge of the second year girls, but can she get them to do their work when all they want is to have some fun? | |||||
| 22 | "The Sneezing Trick" | Bruce McDonald | Shazia Rashid | 22 November 2021 (BBC iPlayer) 27 February 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Alicia gets a new trick and decides to play it on Mam'zelle, but if she gets caught then Sally could be the one in trouble for being head of form. Meanwhile Gwen offers to buy sweets for everyone on an upcoming trip in hopes of buying their friendship, but in order to do so she might have to sell her mom's piece of jewelry. And when Gwen starts seeing what causes everyone else happiness, she decides to steal those items and make them all as miserable as her. | |||||
| 23 | "The School Trip" | Bruce McDonald | Julie Dixon | 22 November 2021 (BBC iPlayer) 27 February 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
The Malory Towers girls, minus Darrell and Sally, go on a school field tip. Gwen has promised ices to everyone, but when her and Mary-Lou accidentally miss the bus they must join Darrell and Sally performing various tasks around the school to better everything. The tasks may provide Gwen a chance to find a good hiding place for her stolen goods, or it may result in her getting caught and punished for good, but they also provide Darrell and Sally the opportunity to figure out where Lady Malory's hidden treasure might be so they can save the school. | |||||
| 24 | "The Quiz" | Gary Williams | Rob Kinsman | 22 November 2021 (BBC iPlayer) 27 February 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
A quiz competition is held between the girls or Malory Towers and the local boys school, Thackerton College. Mr. Parker chooses the team he thinks will be best to beat the boys he used to teach. Meanwhile the girls learn that Gwen's mothers broch is in the local pawn store, and they want to go into town and learn who sold him it so they can learn the thief. Elsewhere Ellen is questioned because she's always disappearing by herself outside, making her one of the top suspects to be a thief. | |||||
| 25 | "The Heroine" | Gary Williams | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 22 November 2021 (BBC iPlayer) 27 February 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
With Ellen still missing after being caught with Mr. Parker's pen, the girls begin to question whether or not she is truly innocent. It forces Sally to look into Ellen's trunk only to learn she only has a blanket. Gwen comes up with the idea that Ellen must be stealing everything since she's poor, so the girls decide to talk to Miss Grayling about it during the break. Meanwhile Gwen decides to try and get rid of the stuff she has stolen, but in the process it could cause Mary-Lou to get hurt. | |||||
| 26 | "The Lost Treasure" | Gary Williams | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 22 November 2021 (BBC iPlayer) 27 February 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
It is the last day of second form at Malory Towers, and despite all efforts Miss Grayling is prepared to sale Malory Towers to Mr. Thomas. She informs all the girls that Malory Towers will be closing, but also calls the girls out for harboring a thief who isn't willing to admit the truth. As Darrell and Sally walk the beach Ron gives them a couple of items he found on the beach. They realize it's some of the stolen items and ask Ron to show them where it was at. As Gwen debates how to admit that she's the thief Darrell and Sally realize the spot Ron found the items at is where Mary-Lou nearly fell from the cliff, but they also make a discovery that could save the school from being turned into a mine. | |||||
Series 3 (2022)
[edit]| No. | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original release date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27 | "New Arrivals" | Tracey Rooney | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 4 July 2022 (BBC iPlayer) 29 August 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
The girls return to Malory Towers where they meet their new instructor: Miss Johnson and the new classmate: Bill (Wilhelmina). Sally isn't with them though as she is home with the mumps. Gwen's father is offered the position of the Head of the Board of Governors, but he refuses to discuss his decision with Gwen unless she first truly tries to become a Malory Towers girl in more than looks. Meanwhile Bill decides she must leave when Miss Johnson decides she needs to go back to second form, but Darrell thinks another solution could be available. | |||||
| 28 | "The Trials" | Tracey Rooney | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 4 July 2022 (BBC iPlayer) 29 August 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Mary-Lou begins suffering from severe acne and her period, but she tries to hide it by wearing a scarf and claiming she's cold. Matron is asked to give the girls a lesson on some of the difficulties they'll suffer as they're growing up. Meanwhile lacrosse trials are held with both Gwen and Mary-Lou being possible surprise additions, but can the girls find a way to motivate Gwen to play when she doesn't believe she has the skills? Note: This episode has alternate scenes and dialogue for its U.S. broadcast on BYUtv, in which Mary-Lou only has severe acne on her back, rather than getting her period.[31][32] | |||||
| 29 | "The Surprise Picnic" | Tracey Rooney | Shazia Rashid | 4 July 2022 (BBC iPlayer) 29 August 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Miss Johnson catches Bill riding Thunder outside of hours and decides to give her an order mark. Meanwhile a sixth former, Mavis, is looking for someone to accompany her to a singing audition. Darrell decides to host a midnight feast in the stables, but in order to do so she must first get some leftovers that could cause her the risk of being caught by the teachers. And even if she can get the treats can they keep them hidden when teachers are prowling the grounds at night? | |||||
| 30 | "The Accident" | Tracey Rooney | Julie Dixon | 4 July 2022 (BBC iPlayer) 29 August 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
After being caught again at the stables Bill has her weekday riding privileges revoked unless she can pass her French test. Miss Grayling agrees to make sure Thunder gets the proper exercise, but when Thunder turns up the next day without a rider Bill and Darrell realize someone is in danger. They ride out and learn Miss Grayling has fallen and broken her leg. Darrell stays with Miss Grayling until an ambulance can take her. As the staff discusses who should take charge Miss Johnson reveals the Governors have asked her to do so. The next day Bill asks if she can see Thunder, but Miss Johnson denies her that privilege. | |||||
| 31 | "The New Headmistress" | Bruce McDonald | Ella Greenhill | 4 July 2022 (BBC iPlayer) 29 August 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Miss Johnson installs a new set of rules that will guarantee everyone gets demerits but that she believes will turn everyone into proper young ladies. The rules cause Darrell to lose her temper and accidentally break a book. Now unless Darrell can repair the book she'll lose the right to play in the match, and with the county scout being present she'll also lose the potential for future playing elsewhere. | |||||
| 32 | "The Voice" | Bruce McDonald | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 4 July 2022 (BBC iPlayer) 29 August 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Sally returns to Malory Towers and learns of all the new rules. Seeing that the rules limit the opportunity for growth Sally decides to write Ms. Grayling and see how soon she can return. Meanwhile the new strict rules could cost Mavis and Irene the chance to audition, and it could cause Mavis to develop an illness. | |||||
| 33 | "The Dance" | Bruce McDonald | Rob Kinsman | 4 July 2022 (BBC iPlayer) 29 August 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Miss Johnson puts Gwen in charge of a school dance with the same boys the girls beat in the quiz. Gwen sends Mary-Lou out to find some ivy, and she comes upon a statue that appears to be a quality art piece that she decides to show to Darrell. Meanwhile the boys place some sneezing powder on the cake that could ruin all of Gwen's prep. | |||||
| 34 | "The Sisters" | Tracey Rooney | Ella Greenhill | 4 July 2022 (BBC iPlayer) 29 August 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Darrell's sister Felicity arrives to take a test and see if she can be admitted to Malory Towers. However Miss Johnson's rules limit what Felicity can do, and her censorship of all the girls letters makes it where none of them can get any news out about what is really occurring at the school. To make things worse Miss Johnson blackmails Darrell and says she may not allow Felicity to attend Malory Towers unless Darrell begins obeying all the rules. | |||||
| 35 | "The Hamper" | Tracey Rooney | Shazia Rashid | 4 July 2022 (BBC iPlayer) 29 August 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Alicia sends the girls a basket of goodies and items that can be used for pranks, but when one of the girls decides to use a sock as a fake mouse Miss Johnson decides to punish Darrell by making her miss the lacrosse trials. If that weren't enough Darrell lets her temper get the better of here which costs her the opportunity to go to the circus and leads Miss Johnson to confine the whole basket of goodies, including some cans of peaches that could help Mavis get over her laryngitis. | |||||
| 36 | "The Peaches" | Tracey Rooney | Julie Dixon | 4 July 2022 (BBC iPlayer) 29 August 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Miss Johnson has confiscated the peaches Alicia sent to Darrell, so Darrell and Sally come up with a plan to get them back while the other third form girls are at the circus. Mary-Lou and Irene act like they're sick so they can help Darrell and Sally, but while trying to recover the peaches Darrell learns that Miss Johnson had hid Mavis' and Irene's letters as well as stolen letters from the outgoing mail intended for Miss Grayling. | |||||
| 37 | "The Ride" | Tracey Rooney | Rob Kinsman | 4 July 2022 (BBC iPlayer) 29 August 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
When Thunder gets ill, Matron is worried he may have developed colic. Now Bill is willing to do anything to try to save him including confronting Miss Johnson, ignoring Matron's orders, and even stealing another horse to ride to the vet. | |||||
| 38 | "The Arrest" | Bruce McDonald | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 4 July 2022 (BBC iPlayer) 29 August 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Bill receives mail from home that's wrapped in a newspaper. The newspaper reveals there's an art thief in the area and that they are the ones who stole the statue Mary-Lou saw earlier. After Miss Johnson refuses to listen to the story, the girls have Bill secretly contact Miss Grayling and set up surveillance with Ron, who has found the stolen art in the stable. Miss Grayling returns, and she asks for a one-on-one talk with Gwen. When the art thief returns Ron identifies her as Miss Johnson, but Sally has seen Miss Johnson outside of Miss Grayling's door the entire time. Gwen goes to reveal what she knows to Miss Grayling, but Miss Johnson intercepts her and then contacts the police to arrest Ron for theft. | |||||
| 39 | "The Thief" | Bruce McDonald | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 4 July 2022 (BBC iPlayer) 29 August 2022 (BYUtv App) | |
|
The girls discover a picture with 2 Miss Johnson's in it and realize she is the thief they've been looking for. Mary-Lou realizes the paintings they've done are actually the stolen paintings, so the girls manage to safely remove the paint from one corner to prove Miss Johnson is the thief. Miss Johnson realizes she's been discovered, so she prepares to sneak out during the assembly only to be confronted by Gwen and Bill. Will Miss Grayling believe the girls evidence and allow the real culprits to be caught, or will Miss Johnson escape? | |||||
Christmas specials (2022)
[edit]| No. | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original release date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40[33] | "The Ghost of Christmas Present" | Bruce McDonald | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 4 December 2022 (BYUtv) 5 December 2022 (CBBC) | |
|
The Malory Towers girls are all excited and ready to travel home for Christmas, but not without a festive farewell where Ron brings his Great Granny Mary and his little brother Fred to meet everyone. However the news isn't good for Darrell or Gwen. Darrell's family is unable to travel to pick her up due to an incoming storm, and Gwen has been told she'll be remaining at the school because her parents are undergoing a divorce. Things quickly escalate when some of the other girls (Mary-Lou, Sally, and Ellen) get stuck after missing the train and when Darrell begins to hear a mysterious moaning and groaning from the walls. Has Malory Towers gained a Ghost to haunt the girls unexpected Christmas at the school? | |||||
| 41 | "The Ghost of Christmas Past" | Bruce McDonald | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 4 December 2022 (BYUtv) 6 December 2022 (CBBC) | |
|
After seeing an SOS sent from the school Bill decides she must rush to the school on Thunder to solve the problem. Irene and Jean plan on following, as they are staying at Bill's for the Christmas Break. Meanwhile Matron and Ms. Grayling must ride out the storm in a broken down car and then figure out the most efficient way to get to the school. At the school Sally and Ellen find out who the Ghost is, and it's an individual who used to run the school, but in the process Mary-Lou accidentally gets locked outside. And when Gwen decides she should runaway for being different, Darrell realizes she might have been the one to over react and determines she must go save her and bring her back. | |||||
Series 4 (2023)
[edit]| No. | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original release date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 42 | "The Rivers Sisters" | Bruce McDonald | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 8 May 2023 (CBBC)[34] 14 May 2023 (BYUtv App)[35] | |
|
The girls begin by first setting up a classic prank on the new first Form, which includes Darrell's sister Felicity and Alicia's cousin June. After being assigned new rooms, the class must select a new Head of Lower School that will help oversee the first years (including discipline). Darrell gets selected, but she quickly finds it won't be easy when she must help discipline her own sister, who accidentally left the train early and then ignores the instruction of her instructor- a returning Mr. Parker. To make matters worse, her temper threatens to erupt due to Felicity's new friend: Alicia's troublesome cousin, June. | |||||
| 43 | "The Doubloon" | Bruce McDonald | Julie Dixon | 9 May 2023 (CBBC) 14 May 2023 (BYUtv App)[35] | |
|
Darrell discovers a doubloon inside a fish that leads to the first form wanting to seek for a treasure supposedly lost at sea. The final two first form girls, a pair of twins (Connie and Ruth), arrive, but they have a hard time dealing with any type of separation after being together their whole lives. Darrell proposes a mentorship program between the first and fourth form girls that Miss Grayling agrees to, but Darrell quickly sees some assignments might need to be changed when Felicity and June run down to the beach to talk to Ron, who is now helping his grandfather and is in training to become a fisherman. | |||||
| 44 | "The Inter-Tower Match" | Bruce McDonald | Emma Pritchard | 14 May 2023 (BYUtv App)[35] 15 May 2023 (CBBC) | |
|
Alicia is organizing the girls lacrosse team for the North Tower vs. West Tower Inter-Tower match. She quickly is able to select the older girls but gets hung up on the first form when 4 talented players emerge for 3 spots. One of the girls, Clarissa, is a former county player but now is hesitant to play. Will she end up taking a spot, and at whose expense if she does? Meanwhile Irene learns her father is about to have something special occur, and she fears it may result in her being removed from Malory Towers. | |||||
| 45 | "The Essay" | Tracey Rooney | Michelle Bonnard | 14 May 2023 (BYUtv App)[35] 16 May 2023 (CBBC) | |
|
Mr. Parker gives the First Form girls a history essay promising a special reward to the best one, but when Connie reveals she's struggling, her twin Ruth gives her her essay and starts a new one from scratch even though she doesn't have time for it. Meanwhile Matron must go on a nighttime errand, so she leaves Darrell in charge of the first form until she returns. After telling the first form of some of their adventures Darrell falls asleep, so June and Felicity decide to go outside and see if there's any truth to the rumor of the new pirate captain ghost. However Darrell awakes and gets Susan to tell her where they went, so now the first form must sneak back in without getting caught. And ultimately it will also lead to the new First Form's head of form being chosen. | |||||
| 46 | "The Kiss" | Tracey Rooney | Radhika Sanghani | 21 May 2023 (BYUtv App)[36] 22 May 2023 (CBBC) | |
|
It is Irene's birthday, and Mam'zelle brings her a present from her father. Realizing that she needs some help in French, Irene asks Mam'zelle for some help, and she makes her her assistant for the day. Meanwhile Gwen decides to write Clarissa's brother Teddy again because he hasn't written back and asks Mary-Lou to have Ron deliver it for her since it's on his fishing route. However Ron is hesitant because the previous time Teddy made fun of Gwen even though he had never seen her. Mary-Lou and Ron decide to let Gwen down gently, but in doing so it may reveal some feelings Ron has hidden. And when June tries to play a prank on Mam'Zelle, it may cause Irene to realize whom her father's new girlfriend is. | |||||
| 47 | "The Midnight Surprise" | Tracey Rooney | Shazia Rashid | 21 May 2023 (BYUtv App)[36] 23 May 2023 (CBBC) | |
|
Alicia plans a midnight feast for her, Darrell, and Gwen, but unlike other feasts they plan to hold this one outside. Alicia is forced to invite Fred and Ron in order to get all the supplies, but it could result in mega trouble if they get caught. Meanwhile June accidentally breaks a window while playing tennis, but when June and Felicity can't find the broken window it may lead them to a discovery that can't be missed. | |||||
| 48 | "The Speech" | Tracey Rooney | Rob Kinsman | 21 May 2023 (BYUtv App)[36] 29 May 2023 (CBBC) | |
|
It is open day for the parents, and as head of lower school Darrell must give a speech in front of the entire school. As an exhibition the boys school is supposed to play a friendly lacrosse match against the girls, but when the boys' bus won't start Sally helps make it a girls vs. parents match instead. Irene finally learns whom her Father's girlfriend is for certain, and when Darrell's speech gets trampled she must deliver it from scratch. | |||||
| 49 | "The Connie Affair" | Bruce McDonald | Shazia Rashid | 28 May 2023 (BYUtv App) 30 May 2023 (CBBC) | |
|
Connie continues to struggle with her lesson prep because she can't remember the meanings of simple phrases. When she is forced to remain behind she fears her sister will begin to like the other girls more than her. Meanwhile June gets the receipe for itching powder and decides to use it on Mam'Zelle, but when Mr. Parker turns on a fan to cool off the classroom he accidentally spreads it to all the girls. Finally Connie's math book and math prep goes missing, and she begins to think June is the guilty one even though there's no proof. | |||||
| 50 | "The Strong Heart" | Bruce McDonald | Julie Dixon | 28 May 2023 (BYUtv App) 5 June 2023 (CBBC) | |
|
Clarissa receives word that her Father has sold her pony because she's not well enough to ride. Not knowing how to help her Gwen asks Bill to because she's the resident horse expert, but it may lead to Clarissa taking actions no one could expect. And in the process it may lead to Felicity getting in trouble for covering for Clarissa disappearing. Meanwhile Mam'Zelle tries to get closer to Irene as they prepare for the upcoming wedding, but Irene begins to feel like everyone is forgetting her mother and isn't sure how she should act. And she's afraid that Mam'Zelle doesn't want to learn of the Jewish customs her Father and Irene have had throughout her life. | |||||
| 51 | "The Field Trip" | Bruce McDonald | Emma Pritchard | 28 May 2023 (BYUtv App) 6 June 2023 (CBBC) | |
|
Every form is supposed to be taking a field trip to study insects with their form leader. The third form is being taken by Miss Grayling, meaning no one will be at Malory Towers. Chaos soon erupts though when Mr. Parker's wife brings him his lunch and begins complaining of symptoms of being slightly hot. Matron recommends she wait in the san while Mr. Parker goes with his form, but Matron needs to go to town to get the medicine for Clarissa's newly diagnosed Graves' disease. As Mrs. Parker awaits in the sand, Gwen volunteers to stay behind to keep an eye on her and Clarissa. When Mrs. Parker goes into labor though Clarissa is forced to ride for Mr. Parker and then Matron. Darrell is put on a course that will reveal to her the secret Felicity and June have been keeping. Connie will come up with new plans on why she can't do the work herself, and a new baby girl will come into the world that will reveal Matron's first name to everyone. | |||||
| 52 | "The Exam" | Tracey Rooney | Rob Kinsman | 4 June 2023 (BYUtv App) 12 June 2023 (CBBC) | |
|
The end of year exams approach, and Darrell tries to figure out the best way to approach the exams without failing. Meanwhile Felicity must figure out the best way to approach June to tell Miss Grayling about the secret room, and Gwen tries to convince everyone that she has a weak heart while being called out by Alicia as a terrible liar. When Gwen's antics lead her to an explosive scenario she will be exposed as a liar more than ever. But it will also lead June and Felicity to being separated from everyone without any knowledge of the troubles that are going on. | |||||
| 53 | "The Terrible Day" | Tracey Rooney | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 4 June 2023 (BYUtv App) 13 June 2023 (CBBC) | |
|
With the second half of the map exposed, June and Felicity think they've figured out where the treasure might be hidden. However when Darrell catches them trying to go out to sea, she realizes the matter is out of her hands and must be taken to Miss Grayling. Making matters worse is the relationship between Connie and Ruth. Ruth has tired of Connie speaking for her and for always having to tutor her, but her "pranks" on Connie have led June to being accused for them with no way to prove her innocence. With two simultaneous things of trouble on her, June might take things into her own hands and go to far. | |||||
| 54 | "The Wedding Day" | Tracey Rooney | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 4 June 2023 (BYUtv App) 13 June 2023 (CBBC) | |
|
Darrell races to the beach searching for June while Felicity searches the school grounds. June finds a chest that reveals Sir Charles might not be whom he has portrayed being all along, but in the process she gets herself and Darrell stranded at the cave as the water rushes in to drown them. Meanwhile Irene accidentally loses her father's wedding ring, but as the group tries to figure out how they can recover it, Felicity realizes a passage is present that may very well save Darrell and June and help confirm whom Sir Charles truly is. As if that weren't enough, the day ends with the wedding of Mam'Zelle and Irene's father. | |||||
Series 5 (2024)
[edit]| No. | Title | Directed by | Written by | Original release date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 55 | "The Rivers Sisters Return" | Bruce McDonald | Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails | 5 May 2024 (BYUtv App) 10 June 2024 (CBBC) | |
|
The Rivers Sisters return to Malory Towers where many changes abound. To begin with Darrell is now Head of Games, and Mary Lou is now Head of Lower Form. Meanwhile the second year form is joined by newcomer Josephine Jones, more commonly known as Jo. However Jo's father has raised her to be a rebel that attracts others, and when she befriends Felicity it is Felicity that has a hard time saying no and following the rules. | |||||
| 56 | "The Monitor Strike" | Bruce McDonald | Shazia Rashid | 5 May 2024 (BYUtv App) 11 June 2024 (CBBC) | |
|
When Gwen gets a little too demanding of her monitor and begins to cost her personal time, the Second Form decides to go on strike until a fair and balanced resolution can be made. Meanwhile a set of broken pipes leads Darrell to the knowledge that it's Miss Grayling's 25th year as head of the school, but it also leads to her learning what happened to Miss Grayling when she was previously engaged. | |||||
| 57 | "The Circus" | Bruce McDonald | Radhika Sanghani | 5 May 2024 (BYUtv App) 17 June 2024 (CBBC) | |
|
When Josephine and Felicity run into a dog that can do tricks in the woods, they learn the circus is in town. Josephine promises Felicity that she'll be able to see them perform, but Matron forbids it. Seeing no other option Josephine goes to Miss Grayling and loosely interprets her words to say it's ok for the circus to visit Malory Towers. The chaos upon their arrival could cause unforeseen problems none of them expect though. | |||||
| 58 | "The Beautiful Game" | Bruce McDonald | Emma Pritchard | 5 May 2024 (BYUtv App) 18 June 2024 (CBBC) | |
|
A big football match is coming up for the boys, but an injury takes out their star striker. Clarissa proves to be good enough to fill-in, but first she must convince everyone she's a boy. And if she's caught, grand consequences could await as girls have been forbidden from playing football despite how unfair it may be. | |||||
| 59 | "The Pocket Money" | Jack Jameson | Julie Dixon | 5 May 2024 (BYUtv App) 24 June 2024 (CBBC) | |
|
Some letters arrive with pocket money for some of the girls, but as usual pocket money must be handed in to Matron. Josephine has her own plans though and once again refuses to turn in it. Meanwhile Mr. Parker lets the girls out of their lessons to have a practice because his baby hasn't been sleeping well, but Josephine wants to skip out and send Fred to get treats with her pocket money, though she must avoid Matron's greyhound senses if she's to succeed. | |||||
| 60 | "The Fugitives" | Jack Jameson | Julie Dixon | 5 May 2024 (BYUtv App) 25 June 2024 (CBBC) | |
|
After Josephine accidentally took 9 pounds instead of 5 pounds her and Connie fear being arrested and decide to go on the run. The only problem is the rest of the girls think they've gone to confess to Miss Grayling, so none of them are aware they've gone missing or that any number of acidents could occur to them. | |||||
| 61 | "The Babysitter" | Jack Jameson | Emma Pritchard | 5 May 2024 (BYUtv App) 1 July 2024 (CBBC) | |
|
When Mr. Parker's wife gets called away unexpectedly to London he requires Gwen to watch his daughter while he does test prep in the afternoon. The only problem is Gwen has arranged a date with Ron, who has temporarily returned from sea. Ron teaches Gwen the basics on raising a baby, but when Gwen runs away to change after a burping accident she accidentally leaves the baby with Felicity, who is supposed to be doing cross country tryouts. The only way Felicity can escape is if Matron intervenes. | |||||
| 62 | "The Malory Oak" | Sunnie Sidhu | Billie Collins | 5 May 2024 (BYUtv App) 2 July 2024 (CBBC) | |
|
Mr. Murray's quest to locate the hidden chamber of Malory Towers takes him to the Malory Oak. However when he reveals that the Malory Oak might have to be chopped down to access the chamber, June freaks out. Meanwhile Josephine accidentally pours some juice on Felicity's sheets which leads Matron to call for a second form dorm inspection. When Josephine mentions that it is hard keeping their dorm clean, Matron decides to ask Mr. Parker to help her teach the girls what hard work is truly all about. | |||||
| 63 | "The Unexpected Visitor" | Sunnie Sidhu | Niki Rooney | 5 May 2024 (BYUtv App) 8 July 2024 (CBBC) | |
|
Mamzelle drops a surprise vocabulary quiz on the girls of the second form after Matron suspects they are going to prank the fifth form. After seeing the girls ambition, Mamzelle begins to wonder how she can prank the second form girls. Meanwhile Susan gets an unexpected visitor when her mom returns from being abroad, but the news she brings could be the worst news for Susan to consider. | |||||
| 64 | "The Race" | Bruce McDonald | Shazia Rashid | 5 May 2024 (BYUtv App) 9 July 2024 (CBBC) | |
|
The big race is almost upon us, and Felicity's practice hits an all-time high. However Darrell begins to wonder if she's working too hard, which could result in injury. Meanwhile Matron worries as she is getting called away to her sister's wedding, but before she can leave she must first find a replacement Matron to assist for a few weeks. | |||||
| 65 | "The New Matron" | Bruce McDonald | Shazia Rashid | 6 October 2024 (BYUtv App) | |
|
A nit outbreak in the North Tower forces Nurse Jane to have to check all the girls in the West Tower for lice, but Darrell suspects Nurse Jane is not all she seems to be when she can't handle the most basic functions the Matron does. At the same time Darrell is conspiring to sneak out and attend lacrosse tryouts with a weak ankle, but doing so might make things worse for her in the long run. | |||||
| 66 | "The Maypole" | Bruce McDonald | Julie Dixon | 6 October 2024 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Sally and Darrell suspect Nurse Jane is hiding something, so they begin their own investigation that will have some surprising results. Elsewhere Jo accidentally releases the rubber ducks used for the annual Malory Towers fair in the stream. After the group is unable to recover them the second form is tasked with coming up with a new activity for them to oversee, leading to the revival of the maypole dance and its unusual actions. | |||||
| 67 | "The Investigation" | Bruce McDonald | Ashley McGuire | 6 October 2024 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Darrell learns the truth about Nurse Jane. Before she can inform anyone about the truth though Matron returns. Matron ends up knowing Nurse Jane, but what exactly is their past relationship, and is it any danger for the Malory Towers girls? | |||||
| 68 | "The Penalty" | Jack Jameson | Patrick Holmes | 6 October 2024 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Ruth's academic results prove to be so high that Mr. Parker and Miss Grayling ask her to consider taking a test that would move her up a whole form at the end of the year. At the same time Josephine's marks are low enough that she could be held back if something doesn't change. And behind the scenes the Second Form girls consider entering a football contest that would allow them to save George the Donkey. | |||||
| 69 | "The Dream" | Jack Jameson | Emma Pritchard | 6 October 2024 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Gwen works with the Second Form girls to try to form a chorus for the upcoming school play, but Josephine's ability to sing is lacking and makes Gwen question if any of them are worthy of being in the play. Meanwhile Felicity must decide if she wants to be in the school play or if she should help Darrell continue to recover from her injury. | |||||
| 70 | "The Birthday Surprise" | Sunnie Sidhu | Billie Collins | 6 October 2024 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Ruth and Connie celebrate their birthday, but Josephine begins to wonder why the two always celebrate together instead of doing their own separate celebrations. Meanwhile when a mysterious camera comes with their gifts everyone begins to wonder if it was really for the twins. Connie breaks a promise to wait to take pictures, but it ends up being meant for Mr. Murray who could end up exposing an unexpected prank. | |||||
| 71 | "The Challenge" | Sunnie Sidhu | Rob Kinsman | 6 October 2024 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Darrell reclaims her position as game captain right before the Inter-Tower Race is supposed to take place. However Alicia has placed new obstacles on the course, and Darrell isn't sure her rehabilitated ankle will be able to handle it. Meanwhile Susan and Ruth suspect Mr. Murray is hiding things from them, and they are determined to find out what it is even if it reveals him as a fraud. | |||||
| 72 | "The Poison Pen" | Jack Jameson | Rob Kinsman | 6 October 2024 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Gwen's ambition to make the play successful gets a little out of control and causes some of the actors to start rebelling, including Josephine and Felicity. Meanwhile June and Connie help Jean with the backdrops needed for the play. Making things worse the wind has blown part of the stage away, meaning no one can get a feel for the stage. | |||||
| 73 | "The Last Letter" | Jack Jameson | Sasha Hails | 6 October 2024 (BYUtv App) | |
|
After Josephine gets a poison letter causing her to want to quit the show, Gwen is determined to find the culprit and bring them before Miss Grayling. Meanwhile Susan and Ruth get some ideas from Mr. Parker on how the poem he provided could reveal the hidden chamber they're all looking for. | |||||
| 74 | "The Chamber" | Jack Jameson | Sasha Hails | 6 October 2024 (BYUtv App) | |
|
Susan and Ruth discover the hidden chamber, but when Ruth gets stuck in the hidden chamber Susan is forced to fetch Mr. Murray to help her escape. However Mr. Murray has his own intentions and wants the treasures in the chamber for himself, forcing Darrell to try to come up with a way to stop him. Meanwhile it is the day of the play. The school Presidents, all the staff, and multiple parents will be attending. The numbers cause Felicity to develop stage fright. Can Gwen help her overcome it? | |||||
Production
[edit]In July 2019, it was announced in a press release that CBBC and The Family Channel had commissioned a TV series adaptation of Enid Blyton's book series Malory Towers. It was also announced that WildBrain would handle international distribution outside the United Kingdom.[37] Sasha Hails and Rachel Flowerday would adapt the series for television with Rebecca Rycroft and Bruce McDonald directing. From DHX Media, Josh Scherba, Anne Loi and Michael Goldsmith are executive producing and Angela Boudreault is producing. From King Bert Productions, Jo Sargent is executive producing and Grainne McNamara is producing.[38]
Principal photography
[edit]Principal photography began in Toronto, Ontario, Canada in summer 2019 and later moved to the two South West England ceremonial counties Cornwall (only in the town of Bodmin) and Devon (only at Hartland Abbey),[39] with the latter serving as the exterior location of the boarding school.[40]
Release
[edit]CBBC released a teaser trailer on 20 March 2020 with the announcement that the series would premiere on 6 April 2020.[41] The entire first series of episodes was available to view early on BBC iPlayer as of 23 March to viewers in the UK with a TV licence.[42] The first two episodes aired on The Family Channel in Canada that 1 July.[43] The second season was also released in its entirety on the BBC iPlayer on 22 November 2021, with broadcasts expected on CBBC in 2022.[44]
Malory Towers began airing on BYUtv on Sundays in America on 13 September 2020.[45] Beginning with the Christmas special BYUtv took over as the premiere station for most episodes, though CBBC would premiere a few.
Reception
[edit]Critical reception
[edit]Malory Towers has garnered critical acclaim (with The Guardian calling the adaptation "absolutely ripping" and The Independent calling the series "a throughly modern take" of the classic book series).[46][47][48] Victoria Legal at The Times picked the series' debut episode as her pick of the week, calling the series a "gift [that is] absolutely true to the spirit of the originals ... escapist, nostalgic and as glorious a treat as a midnight feast".[49] Other favorable reviews came from Good Housekeeping, The Daily Telegraph and The Daily Mail with the last reviews giving Malory Towers four stars.[50]
Accolades and awards
[edit]Malory Towers was nominated in 2022 for a Rose d'Or in the Children and Youth category.[51] In 2023, the series was nominated for four Children's and Family Emmy Awards.[52] Malory Towers was also nominated for three Canadian Screen Awards across the 2021 and 2023 ceremonies.[53][54]
References
[edit]- ^ "Malory Towers takes an international trip".
- ^ "Malory Towers: Sendetermine". 10 September 2023.
- ^ worldscreen.com
- ^ "'Malory Towers' renewed for Season 5". 13 April 2023.
- ^ Tara. "Malory Towers". The Bottle Yard Studios. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Malory Towers series 6 & 7 now filming at The Bottle Yard Studios". 27 June 2024.
- ^ In The Letter Pamela and Miss Potts look at one of Darrell's letters, noting that she's misspelled 1947 as 1647. The date of the letter, at least according to Darrell, is June.
- ^ "Interview with Ella Bright". www.bbc.co.uk. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Ella Bright". TresA. 20 October 2020. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Interview with Danya Griver". www.bbc.co.uk. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Danya Griver". TresA. 25 November 2020. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Malory Towers cast and creatives promise more mischief, fun and adventures in series 4 of Enid Blyton's iconic tale". www.bbc.com. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ https://tresamagazine.com/2023/06/28/zoey-siewert/
- ^ "Interview with Sienna Arif-Knights". www.bbc.co.uk. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Sienna Arif-Knights". TresA. 17 October 2022. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Imogen Lamb". TresA. 7 September 2022. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Natasha Raphael". TresA. 8 September 2020. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Beth Bradfield". TresA. 5 September 2022. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Robin: "Beth Has Not Been Defined By Her Birthmark"". Changing Faces. 23 April 2020. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Beth Bradfield Malory Towers Interview". Changing Faces. 30 July 2020. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Interview with Ashley McGuire". www.bbc.co.uk. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Amelie Green". TresA. 25 October 2022. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ a b "Hit Series 'Malory Towers' From WildBrain and King Bert Gets Festive with Christmas Special". ANB Media. 12 October 2022. Retrieved 12 October 2022.
- ^ https://tresamagazine.com/2021/10/15/jason-callender/
- ^ "Malory Towers cast and creatives promise more mischief, fun and adventures in series 4 of Enid Blyton's iconic tale". www.bbc.com. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "April V Woods". TresA. 21 June 2023. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Minti Gorne". TresA. 22 November 2021. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ "Malory Towers cast and creatives promise more mischief, fun and adventures in series 4 of Enid Blyton's iconic tale". www.bbc.com. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ https://tresamagazine.com/2024/10/28/edesiri-okpenerho/
- ^ https://tresamagazine.com/2021/05/11/hannah-saxby/
- ^ "The Trials".
- ^ "Malory Towers - Series 3: 2. The Trials".
- ^ "HIT SERIES MALORY TOWERS FROM WILDBRAIN AND KING BERT GETS FESTIVE WITH CHRISTMAS SPECIAL".
- ^ "'Malory Towers' confirms Season 4 release date on CBBC and BBC iPlayer". 8 May 2023.
- ^ a b c d "Season 4 First 4 episodes arrive on BYUtv App Sunday, May 14".
- ^ a b c "Season 4 3 more episodes arrive on BYUtv App Sunday, May 21".
- ^ Whyte, Alexandra (17 June 2020). "Malory Towers takes an international trip". Kidscreen. Retrieved 12 August 2020.
- ^ "CBBC and Family Channel commission Malory Towers". Licensing Magazine. 10 July 2019. Retrieved 22 March 2020.
- ^ Conlan, Tara (20 March 2020). "'Downton for kids': BBC brings forward Malory Towers adaptation". The Guardian. Retrieved 22 March 2020.
- ^ "Film & Photo Location". Hartland Abbey & Gardens. Retrieved 18 October 2024.
- ^ Butler, Karen (22 March 2020). "'Malory Towers' series to premiere on CBBC April 6". The Guardian. Retrieved 22 March 2020.
- ^ Chabo, Elena (23 March 2020). "BBC's new Malory Towers adaptation arrives on iPlayer early". Good Housekeeping. Retrieved 23 March 2020.
- ^ David, Greg (18 June 2020). "Family Channel enrolls at Malory Towers". TV, Eh?. Retrieved 12 August 2020.
- ^ Simon Artymiuk (21 November 2021). "Enid Blyton Cornish boarding school classic Malory Towers returns to iPlayer". The Cornish Times. Retrieved 25 November 2021.
- ^ Shields, Judy (12 September 2020). "BYUtv Premieres "Malory Towers" Sunday, September 13 at 9 p.m. ET/7 p.m. MT/6 p.m. PT". The Hollywood Times. Retrieved 15 October 2020.
- ^ Hall, Daisy (5 December 2023). "Ann Akinjirin: 'Filming The Famous Five Felt Like We Were On A Summer Holiday'". Grazia. Retrieved 6 December 2023.
- ^ Mangan, Lucy (6 April 2020). "Malory Towers review – midnight feasts and horrid sneaks make for a ripping Blyton yarn". The Guardian. Retrieved 8 November 2023.
- ^ Long, Camilla (12 April 2020). "TV review: Malory Towers; the Queen's address;Twin;The Art Mysteries;Unorthodox". The Times. Retrieved 9 November 2023.
- ^ Legal, Victoria (5 April 2020). "TV and radio picks of the week: Malory Towers; Rebecca Maradona; At The Foot of the Cross". The Times. Retrieved 13 March 2024.
- ^ Chabo, Elena (23 March 2020). "BBC's new Malory Towers adaptation arrives on iPlayer early". Good Housekeeping. Retrieved 13 March 2024.
- ^ "Rose d'Or 2022 Nominees Announced – Rose d'Or Awards".
- ^ Coates, Tyler (2 November 2023). "Children's & Family Emmy Awards: Disney Dominates Nominations". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved 6 December 2023.
- ^ "The cast of Malory Towers arrives at the Children's & Animation".
- ^ "CANADIAN SCREEN AWARD NOMINATIONS » Directors Guild of Canada".
External links
[edit]
Categories:
- 2020 British television series debuts
- 2020s British drama television series
- 2020s Canadian drama television series
- BBC television dramas
- Boarding school fiction
- Adaptations of works by Enid Blyton
- Television shows based on British novels
- British English-language television shows
- Television series about children
- Television series set in the 1940s
- Television series by WildBrain
- BYU TV original programming
- 2020 Canadian television series debuts
- Family Channel (Canadian TV network) original programming