‘Pride and Prejudice’ Before Emma Corrin: A Look Back at Every Iconic Elizabeth Bennet
Few literary heroines have captivated audiences across generations quite like Elizabeth Bennet, the spirited protagonist of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. With her wit, independence, and charm, Lizzy Bennet has inspired countless portrayals on stage and screen since Austen’s beloved novel was first published in 1813. As each generation rediscovers her story, new actresses step into the role, offering fresh interpretations that continue to shape the legacy of one of literature’s most enduring characters.
Here’s a look at some of the most iconic portrayals of Elizabeth Bennet through the years—and a glimpse of what’s to come.
Greer Garson (1940)
The silver screen’s first major Elizabeth Bennet, acting legend Greer Garson starred opposite Laurence Olivier in MGM’s lush and theatrical adaptation. Though the film famously took liberties with the Regency setting—think Victorian costumes and a much more melodramatic tone—Garson brought a refined grace to Lizzy, setting a precedent for future portrayals, even if her version was more polished than Austen’s original firebrand.
Elizabeth Garvie (1980)
In the BBC’s 1980 miniseries, Elizabeth Garvie offered a quieter, more measured performance that emphasized Lizzy’s intelligence and composure. The adaptation’s faithfulness to Austen’s text won praise from purists, and Garvie’s portrayal was lauded for capturing the quiet resolve and inner strength of the character, even if it lacked some of the spark seen in later versions.
Jennifer Ehle (1995)
For many fans, Jennifer Ehle’s portrayal remains the definitive Elizabeth Bennet. In the BBC’s beloved six-part adaptation, Ehle embodied the character’s quick wit, emotional depth, and keen observations. Her chemistry with Colin Firth’s Mr. Darcy made the 1995 series an instant classic, and her performance earned a BAFTA TV Award. Ehle’s Lizzy was intelligent, playful, and undeniably modern in spirit.
Keira Knightley (2005)
Joe Wright’s cinematic adaptation brought Pride and Prejudice to a new generation, with Keira Knightley taking the lead as a more youthful, impassioned Elizabeth. Knightley’s performance highlighted Lizzy’s rebellious streak and emotional vulnerability, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. With stunning cinematography and a sweeping score, this version became a fan favorite for its romantic intensity and visual flair.
Lily James (2016)
In one of the boldest reinterpretations, Lily James donned corsets and carried weapons in the genre-bending Pride and Prejudice and Zombies. This action-horror-comedy mashup gave Elizabeth martial arts skills and a zombie apocalypse to contend with. While purists may have raised eyebrows, James’s performance maintained Lizzy’s core traits—courage, intelligence, and wit—proving the character’s adaptability to even the most unorthodox settings.
Emma Corrin (Upcoming Netflix adaptation)
The next chapter in Elizabeth Bennet’s screen legacy is just beginning. Emma Corrin, best known for their Golden Globe-winning portrayal of Princess Diana in The Crown, is set to take on the iconic role in an upcoming six-part adaptation from Netflix. Production is slated to begin later this year, and the project promises a fresh, contemporary approach while honoring the spirit of Austen’s original. With Corrin’s proven talent for nuanced performances, anticipation is high for what could be a game-changing take on Lizzy.
Other notable portrayals of Elizabeth Bennet
Beyond these major performances, Elizabeth Bennet has appeared in numerous other adaptations and reimaginings, from Bollywood’s Bride and Prejudice (2004) with Aishwarya Rai’s modern take, to web series like The Lizzie Bennet Diaries (2012), where actress Ashley Clements gave the character a fresh voice in the YouTube age. Each portrayal reflects the times and cultures that reimagined her, demonstrating the timeless relevance of Austen’s heroine.
Whether she’s trading barbs with Mr. Darcy in a candlelit ballroom or fighting zombies in a blood-splattered gown, Elizabeth Bennet remains a literary icon whose charm never fades. And with Emma Corrin next in line to bring her to life, we’re reminded once again that Lizzy Bennet will always have something new to say.
