One of the Most Iconic 2-Part Book Adaptations Is Quietly Surging on Streaming

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Gilbert Blythe (Jonathan Crombie) with Anne Shirley (Megan Follows) in the 'Anne of Green Gables' (1985) miniseries

Published Aug 9, 2026, 1:58 PM EDT

Kendall Myers is a Senior Author with Collider. As part of the TV and Movies Features team, she writes about some of the most popular releases before, during, and after they premiere. In three years, she has written over 900 articles with topics ranging from classic sitcoms to fantasy epics.

Many stories are constantly retold, allowing them to grow, change, and speak to different generations, but sometimes, there is one version that no one can beat, despite their best efforts. That is the case for the 1985 Anne of Green Gables. It's been more than 40 years, and it remains the definitive adaptation. The two-part CBC miniseries, which was also compiled and released as a film, adapts L. M. Montgomery's beloved 1908 book and later inspired several follow-up films and even a spin-off TV series.

While it's no surprise that Anne of Green Gables initially earned attention after its release, its staying power is an impressive accomplishment. The miniseries brings the classic novel to life, following an imaginative orphan girl's journey to find a family where she can belong. With a charming story and a perfect cast, 1985's Anne of Green Gables proves that some adaptations can hold up decades later.

'Anne of Green Gables' Tells a Heartwarming Story

Even after so many years, Anne of Green Gables stands out due to the novel's heartwarming story, which follows young Anne (Megan Follows) as she comes to live with the kindly Matthew (Richard Farnsworth) and strict Marilla (Colleen Dewhurst). Though they initially plan to send the talkative girl back, the siblings decide to take her in, and Anne slowly worms her way into their hearts. She's not a perfect child, and often causes mischief, but Anne's dramatic and creative heart is usually in the right place.

Beyond the story, Anne of Green Gables is set apart by its talented cast. From Anne's precocious personality to Rachel Lynde's (Patricia Hamilton) gossipy nature, every character is unique and memorable, and the miniseries captures them perfectly. Between Fellows' Anne, Jonathan Crombie's Gilbert Blythe, and Farnsworth's Matthew, the cast has no weak links. Even Dewhurst's Marilla is ultimately endearing as she struggles to express her feelings toward Anne. These casting choices play into the novel's strength, amplifying its feel-good story and making Anne of Green Gables an unforgettable adaptation.

Out of All the Story's Adaptations, 'Anne of Green Gables' Is the Best

While Anne of Green Gables is a memorable adaptation of the classic novel, it isn't the only one. While it's no surprise that the CBC miniseries wasn't the first attempt, it isn't the most recent either. In the years since the miniseries, other versions of the story have been released, including L.M. Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables, Anne of Green Gables: Road to Green Gables, and Anne With an E, but the 1985 series remains the most popular, and it's easy to see why. Anne of Green Gables' loyalty to the book has both allowed it to age well and made it a lasting favorite among those who have read the original novel.

Anne Shirley continues to be a memorable figure in literature, and that isn't likely to change any time soon. In fact, the story is about to get a new perspective with the series Lucy. Maud., which will explore Montgomery's life. The upcoming series will have more than a little Anne of Green Gables nostalgia, since none other than Fellows has been cast to play the author. Fellows's involvement reinforces the impact of the 1985 series because even 40 years later, she is still deeply intertwined with Anne and her story. Anne of Green Gables has stuck around for a reason, and its continued popularity on streaming proves how long a good adaptation can remain relevant.