This is not the first dramatization of Gerald Durrell’s autobiography My Family and Other Animals to appear on television. The naturalist’s tales about his outrageous relatives have graced the small screen twice before, with a number of familiar faces behind the eclectic characters. Here is a look back over the more memorable portrayals of the Durrell clan.

 

Brian Blessed as Spiro (1987)

After his turn as Doctor Who villain King Yrcanos, Brian Blessed took on the more affable role of beloved Greek taxi driver Spiro in the 1987 serial My Family and Other Animals. Known for his trademark booming voice, the actor donned a softer accent for the Durrell's Greek guide.

Russell Tovey as Leslie Durrell (2005)

In 2005, The Durrells writer Simon Nye also penned a feature-length version of the book for the BBC. Russell Tovey played the gun-obsessed Leslie, which was the actor's biggest role before rising to fame in the smash hit film The History Boys. The RTS award winner also appeared next to Durrell mother Keeley Hawes in cop drama Ashes To Ashes. 

Omid Djalili also as Spiro (2005)

Comedian and actor Omid Djalili reprised Blessed's role in the 2005 BBC film, depicting a more humble Spiro than his predecessor. Djalili is to feature in the second series of Stan Lee's Lucky Man later this year. 

Darren Redmayne as Gerry Durrell (1987)

As for the original Gerald Durrell, child star Darren Redmayne chose not to pursue a career in film. Training as a chartered accountant, the now middle-aged Redmayne is currently CEO of a pensions advisory firm. 

The Durrells continues on Sunday at 8pm on ITV.