BBC Reboots Classic WWII Women’s POW Drama Tenko for Modern Audiences

The BBC has confirmed that its iconic 1980s World War II drama Tenko is returning to screens as a modern reboot. Two Brothers Pictures, the company behind Fleabag, will spearhead development, with Anna Symon tapped to write and original creator Lavinia Warner consulted. The series, which chronicled the harrowing experiences of British, Australian and Dutch women in a Japanese internment camp, first aired from 1981 to 1984 and remains a touchstone of wartime storytelling. A reboot promises to bring those stories to a new generation, highlighting both historical truth and contemporary relevance. Fans and historians alike are watching to see how the delicate balance of authenticity and drama will be handled.

What happened

Deadline reported that Two Brothers Pictures is rebooting Tenko, with founders Jack and Harry Williams leading the effort. Anna Symon will pen the new scripts, and Lavinia Warner, the series’ original creator, has been approached to advise on the project.

Tenko originally ran for three seasons between 1981 and 1984, plus a reunion special in 1985, depicting the survival of women prisoners of war after the Fall of Singapore. The original series was praised for its gritty portrayal of camp life, including disease, abuse, and the bonds formed among the internees.

Why it matters

Reviving Tenko shines a spotlight on a segment of World War II history that has received limited mainstream attention, especially the experiences of female POWs in the Pacific theater. By updating the story with contemporary production values and diverse storytelling sensibilities, the series can educate new viewers while sparking dialogue about wartime gendered trauma. However, the project also carries the weight of preserving historical accuracy, as any misstep could undermine the legacy of the women whose stories it seeks to honor.

How to think about it

Approach the reboot as both a historical dramatization and a contemporary reinterpretation. Compare its narrative choices with documented accounts of POW camps, and note where creative liberties are taken for dramatic effect. Use the series as a springboard to explore primary sources or documentaries about women in the Pacific war, and consider the ethical responsibilities of retelling trauma on screen.

FAQ