Sorry Y'all, Matthew Macfadyen’s A Better Mr. Darcy Than Colin Firth

pride & prejudice 2005 darcy and elizabeth

I know what you might be thinking: WHOA! Matthew Macfadyen is better than Colin Firth?! As someone who grew up watching the 1995 BBC Pride & Prejudice at least once a year, the TV show is foundational to my relationship with media — but I can't deny that the Joe Wright's 2005 adaptation with Keira Knightley totally changed everything. And in honor of the Pride & Prejudice 20th anniversary this year, my co-host Kayla and I chat all about it on the latest episode of Brit + Co's Yap City podcast.

Here are our honest thoughts on the 2005 Pride & Prejudice, Matthew Macfadyen's Mr. Darcy, and the hand flex.

The Battle of the Darcy's: Matthew Macfadyen VS. Colin Firth

In this week's episode of Yap City, we're talking all things Pride & Prejudice, Mr. Darcy, and historical romance. The 2005 adaptation starring Keira Knightley as Lizzy Bennet and Matthew Macfadyen as Mr. Darcy (which turns 20 on November 11) is returning to select theaters April 20.

"I've grown to love the 2005 version with Keira Knightley more just because it makes me feel so deeply and I just always feel so many butterflies in my stomach by the end," I say in the latest episode. "I feel like it's more a more emotional depiction of the story."

"I'm definitely team 2005," Kayla agrees. "I just think the cast of 2005 is better in my opinion, and it does a good job of being like ethereal and just fully immersing you into what I imagine Jane Austen's world was or what she wanted it to be when she was writing."

Both the 2005 and the 1995 Pride & Prejudice give us some seriously swoon-worthy moments from Mr. Darcy like Colin Firth diving into a lake or Matthew Macfadyen walking through the fog. "Every single time, no matter how many times I watch it, I always think the camera is going to pan or it's gonna cut to Elizabeth," I say. "Something about it just makes me feel at peace."

But there's nothing as immortal as Mr. Darcy's hand flex.

What does Mr. Darcy's hand flex mean?

One of the most enduring moments from the movie (if not in 21st century cinema) is when Mr. Darcy helps Elizabeth into a carriage, and then flexes his hand as he walks back into the house. But what does the hand flex mean?

"He was so affected by touching her hand, because men and women didn't really touch unless it was moments like you were helping them into the carriage or escorting them somewhere," Kayla points out. But that's not the only reason she loves Matthew's version of Mr. Darcy over Colin Firth's.

"I just think he fully captured [the] gentleness that he had towards her while also maintaining that straightforward bluntness that kind of has you wonder if he's rude or if that's just how he is," she continues.

"Matthew has really grown on me because I feel like he has a sweetness that some of the other adaptations didn't give me as a viewer or I didn't pick up on them in the same way," I agree. "When you reach the end of the 2005 Pride & Prejudice, and even when you rewatch, you can identify that he really is just uncomfortable and anxious instead of just straight mean."

Where can I watch Pride & Prejudice 2005?

Pride & Prejudice is re-releasing in theaters for a limited time starting April 20, 2025. You can also stream it on Netflix right now.

Who's in the Pride & Prejudice cast?

The Pride & Prejudice cast makes this one of the best movies of the 2000s. Here's who you'll see in the movie:

  • Keira Knightley as Elizabeth "Lizzy" Bennet: an intelligent, headstrong woman determined to marry for love.
  • Matthew Macfadyen as Mr. Darcy: the new wealthy bachelor in town who appears to have a chip on his shoulder.
  • Rosamund Pike as Jane Bennet: Lizzy's romantic and gentle older sister who falls for Mr. Bingley.
  • Simon Woods as Charles Bingley: Mr. Darcy's friendly and kind best friend who falls for Jane.
  • Rupert Friend as George Wickham: a mysterious figure from Darcy's past who turns Lizzy's head.
  • Brenda Blethyn as Mrs. Bennet: Lizzy's dramatic mother who wants to see all five of her daughters married.
  • Donald Sutherland as Mr. Bennet: Lizzy's quiet father who loves to sit and read in his study.
  • Jena Malone as Lydia Bennet: Lizzy's youngest sister whose behavior borders on scandalous.
  • Carey Mulligan as Catherine "Kitty" Bennet: Lizzy's second-youngest sister who feels overshadowed by Lydia.
  • Talulah Riley as Mary Bennet: The studious middle Bennet sister who plays the piano.
  • Tom Hollander as Mr. Collins: a Bennet cousin who's next in line to inherit their home.
  • Judi Dench as Lady Catherine de Bourgh: Mr. Darcy's wealthy and esteemed aunt.
  • Kelly Reilly as Caroline Bingley: Mr. Bingley's sister.
  • Tamzin Merchant as Georgiana Darcy: Mr. Darcy's younger sister.
  • Claudie Blakley as Charlotte Lucas: Lizzy's best friend.
  • Cornelius Booth as Colonel Fitzwilliam: Mr. Darcy's cousin.
  • Penelope Wilton as Mrs. Gardiner: Lizzy's aunt.
  • Peter Wight as Mr. Gardiner: Lizzy's uncle.

Check out how We Got Dragged Into The Live-Action Snow White & Rachel Zegler Drama in last week's episode!

Don't worry, if you're still crying over the Severance season 2 ending, I have good news for you. Severance season 3 is coming to Apple TV+! The show was renewed for a junior season after the season 2 finale and the news couldn't come at a better time. I need to see the Severance cast and characters happy!!! Keep reading for everything we know about the upcoming episodes.

Here's the latest news on Severance season 3, coming to Apple TV+ soon.

What are some popular Severance season 3 theories?

Apple TV+

During a panel at Bell Works in New Jersey (where the show is filmed), Britt Lower revealed a theory the whole Severance cast is "getting a kick out of [is] Ricken being a goat," she tells People. "I think that's everyone's collective theory. You never know."

Michael Chernus (who plays Ricken in the show) says that "people have all kinds of theories about Ricken that he's a goat or that he's an Eagan or he's part of the board. I think, you know, we don't see a ton of Ricken in season 2, so I think the fact that he isn't around much makes him seem very suspicious to some people."

Fans love getting caught up in the theories, but for the team behind-the-scenes, it's a little tricky to navigate. "You have to like take all that with a grain of salt and sort of appreciate that everybody has different ideas, but we have to have our own sort of clear idea of what we're doing that is independent of that," executive producer Ben Stiller says.

However, that doesn’t mean he turns a blind eye to online chatter, saying, “I'll read a theory and I'll be like, 'Oh I wish we were making that show because that sounds cool.' But generally, I have to sort of turn the other way," creator Dan Erickson agrees.

Is there a season 3 of Severance coming?

Apple TV+

Yes, Apple TV renewed Severance for a season 3 on March 21, 2025.

“Making Severance has been one of the most creatively exciting experiences I’ve ever been a part of,” executive producer and director Ben Stiller says in a statement. He jokes that, “While I have no memory of this, I’m told making season three will be equally enjoyable, though any recollection of these future events will be forever and irrevocably wiped from my memory as well.”

“I couldn’t be more excited to get back to work with Ben, Dan, the incredible cast and crew, Apple and the whole Severance team,” executive Adam Scott (who also plays Mark) adds. “Oh hey also — not a huge deal — but if you see my innie, please don’t mention any of this to him. Thanks.”

When is Severance season 3 coming out?

Atsushi Nishijima/Apple TV+

We don't have an official Severance season 3 release date yet, but we do know it won't take another three years for new episodes to come out. (We all remember the three-year wait between seasons 1 and 2).

During an appearance on New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce, Ben Stiller promises that "the plan is not, definitely not" to release Severance season 3 in 2028.

Who's in the Severance season 3 cast?

Apple TV+

Based on the end of season 2, we can include the Severance season 3 cast to include all our favorite stars:

  • Adam Scott as Mark Scout: a Lumon employee leading his team in Macrodata Refinement (MDR). In the real world he's mourning his late wife Gemma.
  • Britt Lower as Helena Eagan/Helly R.: one of Mark's coworkers with a shocking outie identity: she's the daughter of Lumon's CEO.
  • Dichen Laman as Gemma/Ms. Casey: Mark's wife in the real world and the wellness counselor on Lumon's severed floor.
  • Zach Cherry as Dylan George: another of Mark's coworkers who's the first one to be awakened outside the office.
  • John Turturro as Irving Bailiff: a Lumon employee who works with Mark.
  • Christopher Walken as Burt Goodman: a severed Lumon employee who's the head of Optics and Design (O&D).
  • Tramell Tillman as Seth Milchick: Lumon's Manager on the severed floor.
  • Patricia Arquette as Harmony Cobel: Lumon's manager during season 1 who lives as outie Mark's neighbor Mrs. Selvig.
  • Jen Tullock as Devon Scout-Hale: Mark's sister, who's pregnant in season 1.
  • Michael Chernus as Ricken Hale: Devon's husband and a self-help author.
  • Sarah Bock as Eustice Huang: the severed floor's new Deputy Manager in season 2.

What happens at the end of Severance season 2?

Apple TV+

The Severance season 2 ending is truly devastating. In the final moments of the episode, outie Mark and Gemma finally reunite in the moment we've been waiting literal years for. They decide to make their escape, but when they slip back into their innie selves, Mark S. decides he doesn't want to sacrifice himself for his outie. He stays with Helly at Lumon while Gemma (who had managed to escape, reverting to her outie self) looks on, screaming his name and beating on the door.

Where does Severance film?

Apple TV+

Severance has been filmed in locations like New Jersey's Bell Labs, as well as various locations around New York, including York Studios, Kingston, Nyack, Marine Park Golf Course, Ulster County, and Beacon.

As the cast reunites for Severance season 3, get ready for more outie-innie drama and suspense! Follow Brit + Co on TikTok to see the latest news!

This post has been updated.

The season 3 finale of The White Lotus dropped on Sunday, and fans around the globe are still grappling with how creator Mike White chose to wrap up the latest iteration of the dark comedy.

Spoiler alert: Timothy Ratliff did not end up murdering his family (although he planned to, chickened out and almost accidentally killed Lochlan, the one child he'd planned to save); Belinda accepted Greg/Gary's bribe after getting it up to $5 million and pulled a total Tanya on Pornchai, who wanted to start a spa with her; and the three girlfriends, Laurie, Kate, and Jaclyn, all worked things out in the end. Oh, and Chelsea dies because of Rick – the one thing everyone didn't want to happen.

Chelsea, played by actress Aimee Lou Wood, quickly became one of this season's most lovable characters. However, due to her tragic death during the finale, it's pretty obvious that she won't be returning to The White Lotus for Season 4. So if you're already missing Aimee's iconic acting, we've got good news for you — there's another show you can binge right now to get your Aimee fix: Sex Education.

Prior to becoming a larger household name on The White Lotus, she actually played the character Aimee Gibbs in Sex Education, a Netflix series that came out in 2019 and ran for four whole seasons!

Aimee's portrayal as a popular high school girl who undergoes a lot of character growth throughout the show's four seasons even earned her a British Academy Television Award for Best Female Comedy Performance. So, if you want to see more of Aimee in a completely different role than Chelsea on The White Lotus, buckle up and grab your popcorn. Here's what to know!

Everything to know about Aimee Lou Wood's Netflix series, Sex Education!


What is 'Sex Education' about?

Netflix

Sex Education is now an acclaimed cult classic that's beloved for its humor and reliability. The British teen comedy revolves around a high school student named Otis, played by Asa Butterfield, whose mother is a sex therapist. So, despite being an awkward high schooler, he's privy to plenty of adult information and becomes a go-to resource for his classmates. With help from a peer named Maeve, he ultimately uses his expertise to set up an underground clinic, where he counsels his classmates on all kinds of personal situations and raises his status at school along the way.

Who's in the 'Sex Education' cast?

Netflix

While Aimee Lou Wood (Aimee Gibbs) is obviously a star in Sex Education, the rest of the cast is actually quite incredible — including two Barbiefaves! Other cast members include:

  • Asa Butterfield as Otis Milburn
  • Emma Mackey as Maeve Wiley (Hi, Barbie!)
  • Ncuti Gatwa as Eric Effiong (Hi, Ken!)
  • Tanya Reynolds as Lily Iglehart
  • Connor Swindells as Adam Groff
  • Gillian Anderson as Jean Milburn
  • Ruby Matthews as Mimi Keene
  • Jemima Kirke as Hope Haddon

How many seasons of 'Sex Education' are there?

Netflix

There are four seasons of Sex Education, with eight episodes each season.

Will there be more seasons of 'Sex Education'?

Netflix

As far as we know, Sex Education wrapped up with season 4. But I guess...never say never, right?!

Where can I stream 'Sex Education'?

Netflix

You can stream all four seasons of Sex Education on Netflix.

Looking for more TV & entertainment news? Follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

As 1923 comes to a close, you might be wondering, What should I watch after 1923? Well you've come to right place because on the latest episode of Yap City, Brit + Co hosts Kayla and Chloe (that's me!) chat about the best Western TV shows to add to your watchlist. From When Calls The Heart for romance fans to Billy the Kid for Tom Blyth lovers, these shows can't be missed.

Here are the best Western shows to watch after you finish 1923 season 2.

What should I watch after 1923?

There are plenty of TV shows any 1923 fan will love (beyond 1883 and Yellowstone of course!), and Brit + Co hosts Chloe and Kayla dive into all the Western, romantic, and sci-fi shows you can stream right now. Keep reading for 5 of our favorites.

5 TV Shows To Watch After You Finish '1923' Season 2

Emerson Miller/Paramount+

Landman — Stream on Paramount+

In this Taylor Sheridan show, crisis executive Tommy Norris is fighting to secure his company's spot in the oil business during a fuel boom. Easier said than done. 1923 fans, keep your eyes peeled for Michelle Randolph!

Landman is on Paramount+ and stars Billy Bob Thornton, Ali Larter, Michelle Randolph, Jacob Lofland, Kayla Wallace, James Jordan, Mark Collie, Paulina Chávez, Demi Moore, Jon Hamm, Andy Garcia, and Michael Peña.

Prime Video

Outer Range — Stream on Prime Video

If you like your Westerns with a side of sci-fi, tune into Outer Range. This show follows the Abbott family, who are trying to protect their ranch while also reconciling their daughter-in-law's disappearance. But things get even crazier when a black void appears.

Outer Range is on Prime Video and stars Josh Brolin, Lili Taylor, Noah Reid, and Imogen Poots.

Hallmark Media

When Calls the Heart — Stream on Hallmark+

1923 fans who can't get enough of Spencer & Alex's romance will want to watch When Calls the Heart, which follows teacher Elizabeth Thatcher as she relocates to the small town of Coal Valley, and faces all kinds of love, loss, and adventure.

When Calls the Heart is on Hallmark+ and stars Erin Krakow, Kevin McGarry, Pascale Hutton, Jaeda Lily Miller, Kavan Smith, Andrea Brooks, Chris McNally, Martin Cummins, Viv Leacock, and Jack Wagner.

David Brown/MGM+

Billy The Kid — Stream on MGM+

Before he became the infamous outlaw, Billy was just a kid who experienced all kinds of heartbreak, fell in love, and got into plenty of trouble. Watch our interview with star Tom Blyth!

Stream Billy The Kid on MGM+ and see Tom Blyth, Eileen O'Higgins, Daniel Webber, and Alex Roe.

Ursula Coyote/Netflix

Godless — Stream on Netflix

Godless is the perfect show for 1923 fans because it reorients the cowboy narrative we're all familiar with. It follows a supposed traitor named Roy who's chased by a gang of outlaws to La Belle, a town nearly entirely governed by women after a mining accident killed almost all the husbands, fathers, and brothers.

Godless is on Netflix and stars Jack O'Connell, Michelle Dockery, Scoot McNairy, Merritt Wever, and Thomas Brodie-Sangster.

Will there be another series after 1923?

Paramount

There are a few more Yellowstone spinoffs on their way! In addition to the new show The Madison with Michelle Pfeiffer, it looks like we're also getting a spinoff about Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler.

What order to watch Yellowstone 1883 and 1923?

Emerson Miller/Paramount+

If you're new to the Yellowstone universe, you can watch the shows in chronological order or in release order, depending on how you want to experience the story. If you want to watch chronologically (my personal favorite), watch the shows in the following order:

  • 1883
  • 1923
  • Yellowstone

But if you want to watch in release order, watch this way:

  • Yellowstone
  • 1883
  • 1923

Check out even more Western show recommendations with our 17 TV Shows For Yellowstone Fans!

This post has been updated.

There's just something so alluring about the cottagecore aesthetic. It represents a dreamy return to simpler times when fresh-baked bread was left to cool on windowsills and kids frolicked in meadows for fun.

This romanticized picture of rural life has inspired everything from fashion to home decor and even baby names. These monikers are full of nostalgia and often draw inspiration from nature, literature, and the past.

They're also soft-sounding and reminiscent of the countryside. So, if you're on the hunt for a baby name that feels poetic and peaceful, here are some cottagecore-inspired choices that might just capture your heart.

Scroll to see all the darling cottagecore baby names we adore for 2025!

1. Faye

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The name Faye has a delicate charm that makes it seem as if it were plucked straight from a fairytale. It literally means "fairy" in Old French, too, and calls to mind images of enchanted forests that are home to woodland creatures.

Aside from its more mystical appeal, Faye has roots in Middle English and Latin, where it signifies "belief" and "loyalty." So, along with being a bit whimsical, this pick is perfect for a devoted girl with a free spirit.

2. Jasper

Ksenia Chernaya

Jasper sounds warm and deep, which is why it really fits in with the cottagecore aesthetic. Persian in origin, the name means "treasurer" and also represents a beautiful gemstone.

And historically, Jasper was one of the Three Wise Men who journeyed to Bethlehem, adding some wisdom and tradition. This is a fitting choice for a boy who's strong but still in touch with his soft side.

3. Maisie

casper somia

Derived from the Scottish form of Margaret, Maisie means "pearl" and can symbolize your small yet precious baby girl.

This name is sweet and vintage but maintains a playful and modern appeal. Maisie truly feels like the name of a little one who loves picking wildflowers and staying in touch with their surroundings.

4. Lyle

Helena Lopes

Lyle has a quiet allure that suits the tranquil spirit of cottagecore well. This name has Norman French origins, meaning "island" or "from the island," and evokes pictures of nature.

While Lyle might seem soft, understated, and gentle, it's equally strong and sounds like the name of a boy who spends his mornings reading beneath old oak trees and afternoons exploring the world around him.

5. Dahlia

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Graceful and elegant, Dahlia is derived from the Swedish word "dal," meaning "valley." The flower itself is also known for its vibrant colors and intricate petals, which symbolize creativity and inner grace.

Dahlia feels like a great name for a girl who's resilient, loves the environment, and feels most at home in serene settings.

6. Miles

Вальдемар

With Latin and German origins, Miles means "soldier" or "merciful" and balances strength with kindness. It's this juxtaposition that makes the name feel old-worldly and timeless.

Miles is simultaneously refined and approachable, making it ideal for a baby boy who will come to appreciate life's simple pleasures.

7. Rosemary

Bárbara Marques

Rosemary is botanical, harking back to the herb, so it's a pretty irresistible choice for plenty of cottagecore parents. Derived from the Latin "rosmarinus," meaning "dew of the sea," this name is steeped in history, romance, and natural beauty.

It's also been long associated with remembrance and love. As a vintage pick, Rosemary epitomizes the cottagecore lifestyle.

8. River

Emma Pender Photography

Finally, a few names are able to capture the spirit of nature quite like River, which embodies movement and serenity. It's traditionally been more common for boys but is also rising in popularity for baby girls.

River symbolizes growth and change, so it's a wonderful reminder for any child to embrace the journey and go with the flow.

Looking for more baby & parenting advice? Sign up for our newsletter!

Brandon Sklenar has some pretty epic love stories under his belt. 1923's Alex and Spencer and It Ends With Us' Lily and Atlas are two iconic couples in pop culture right now, and I'm adding Violet and Henry from Drop (premiering in theaters April 11) to the list. What starts out as a fun first date turns terrifying when anonymous drops to her phone demand Violet kill Henry before the date's over. Whoa. That's intense.

But despite the fact this is probably the worst first date in recent cinema, Brandon Sklenar and White Lotus star Meghann Fahy's chemistry is so electric that I'll be referring to the movie as a scary rom-com from here on out. Naturally, I have to ask Brandon if he'd ever do a classic rom-com!

Here's what 1923's Brandon Sklenar had to say about starring in a rom-com in Brit + Co's Drop interview. Plus, Meghann Fahy's best dating advice!

Is Brandon Sklenar in a rom-com?

"It's possible. I'm not saying no, but it's possible," he teases. "I'd love to do a comedy at some point. Everything I have in the future is very far from, and very far from romance, but I'd say it's possible. Yeah, never say never."

As far as his dream comedy goes, Brandon tells Brit + Co, "I love Peter Sellers and I love like Chevy Chase movies. I'm like I'm a very physical guy and I'd love to be able to do something just absurd like grounded but completely absurd."

What have Meghann Fahy said about Brandon Sklenar?

The best ensemble comedies and rom-coms always have incredible casts, but I can't imagine a better duo than Brandon and Meghann. They make an incredible team in Drop, and Meghann admits if she found herself in the same situation as Violet, she wouldn't hesitate to tap Brandon in to help her.

"If sh—t went down, he'd be a good guy to be with," she says. "I feel like you got some real survival skills."

"I could do a couple of things, but most of that I learned from my friends of mine who are even gnarlier than me," he says. "I take little credit. I mean, you learn everything from somewhere, right?"

"I mean, I'm pretty good with like hand to hand combat," he continues, before Meghann tells him he's good at intimidation and he quite literally goes, "Grr, scary face. Spooky."

What is a good first date conversation?

But, more often than not, a bad date won't have any danger...just awkwardness. "I think if you're on a bad date and you realize 'I'm probably not gonna end up with this person,' just try to enjoy yourself anyway and make it about just trying to connect with somebody," Brandon says. "Just just get to know somebody for the sake of getting to know someone."

When it comes to ice breaker questions and conversation starters, Meghann loves "a final meal [question] like last meal, appetizer, main, dessert, drinks, sides, the whole bit."

"What did you want to be when you were really little growing up?" Brandon adds. "Dream scenario." (Let the record show Brandon has admitted he loved Batman growing up, and he's a leading fancast for the DCU. I'm totally here for it).

Can't get enough of this duo? Here's What Brandon Sklenar Said About Potential It Starts With Us Movie, and the first look at Meghann Fahy's Sirens on Netflix!

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.