Premiering on MASTERPIECE PBS in 2026: “The Count of Monte Cristo” with Sam Claflin – The Avenger with a Broken Heart

The Count of Monte Cristo, starring Sam Claflin, is set to premiere on MASTERPIECE PBS in 2026. This dramatic miniseries, directed by Oscar-winner and two-time Palme d’Or winner Bille August, is a bold, emotional reimagining of Alexandre Dumas’ timeless tale.

🎬 Series Highlights

Episodes: 8

Language: English

Starring: Sam Claflin (Edmond Dantès), Jeremy Irons (Abbé Faria), Ana Girardot (Mercédès), and a remarkable international cast.

Filming Locations: France, Italy, Malta — featuring iconic places like Paris, Rome, and Château d’If.

Broadcast Schedule:

There is currently no official trailer and fan-made trailers as well.

Premiered in Switzerland, Sweden, Italy in late 2024–early 2025

U.S. Premiere on PBS set for 2026

Plot Summary
Edmond Dantès, a young sailor, is wrongfully accused of treason and locked away without trial in the dreaded Château d’If. After years of solitary imprisonment, he escapes, discovers a hidden treasure, and returns under a new identity — The Count of Monte Cristo — with one goal: revenge.

What Makes This Adaptation Special?

A deeper psychological exploration of Edmond Dantès’ inner torment and transformation

Female characters like Haydée are reimagined as stronger, more independent, adding new depth to the narrative

Visually stunning historical recreation paired with a modern emotional lens

Audience Reactions & Reviews

What Viewers Loved:
– Sam Claflin’s performance was widely praised for capturing Edmond’s complex evolution from innocence to vengeance
– High production value: Costumes, cinematography, and locations received accolades for their authenticity and beauty
– Critics agree: The series holds a 96% critic score and 94% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes

– Points of Criticism:

Some felt it lacked emotional depth in key scenes, limiting connection with characters

Deviations from the novel left traditionalists disappointed, feeling it strayed from Dumas’ original vision

Uneven acting: A few supporting performances were seen as underwhelming compared to the leads

-Final Verdict:
The Count of Monte Cristo (2024) is a commendable modern adaptation of a literary masterpiece. Though it takes creative liberties, it still delivers powerful storytelling, emotional weight, and a visually rich experience.

If you love sweeping historical drama, character-driven revenge tales, and don’t mind some bold reinterpretations, this series is well worth your time.

There is currently no official trailer and as well as fan made trailers here is the trailer for The Count of Monte Cristo 2024