All Creatures Great and Small viewers 'can't believe' major change in new series

Viewers of All Creatures Great and Small were left gobsmacked on Thursday evening as the latest series of the Channel 5drama returned to screens.

The cherished period programme launched with a significant time leap, revealing that Darrowby's inhabitants had moved forward to 1945 as the war drew to a close.

This shift also established that James Herriot (portrayed by Nicholas Ralph), who had previously hinted at turbulent times approaching,was now father to two children.

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The opening scenes featured him welcoming his son at play on the farm - a child previously seen as a baby- whilst audiences were also introduced to his young daughter, Rosie.

It emerged swiftly that Mrs Hall (Anna Madeley) had departed Darrowby, leaving viewers to witness a troubled Siegfried Farnon (Samuel West) who had allowed Skeldale house to fall into disrepair, reports the Manchester Evening News.

As the first episode commenced, it wasn't long before audiences flocked to X to express their reactions to the Channel 5 programme's comeback, with numerous fans stunned by the children's growth following the time jump.

One viewer remarked: "Look how Jimmy has grown."

Another wrote: "The fact that jimmy has become a FULL GROWN MAN! where is the baby?!"

A further comment read: "JIMMY YOU ADORABLE BOY."

Whilst someone else posted: "Christ that kid grew fast.....have they got 2 kids now...."

Discussing the sixth series, actor Nicholas Ralph reflected on parenthood's impact upon James, stating: "I think naturally you perhaps become even more compassionate and empathetic.

"And also, as a father, you want to take better care of yourself because you want to be around for your kids. You start thinking a bit more long-term, looking to the future.

"Of course, all the shuttling back and forth, the late nights all add to the burden. But I think having children does make you a bit more patient too.

"People often say you start to see the world through your children's eyes, which is really unique and surprising at times. Some of the things they come out with, especially little Jimmy... Rosie's still a bit too young for that just yet though."

All Creatures Great and Small is available to watch on My5.