The Thorn Birds: The Missing Years

The Thorn Birds: The Missing Years
Based onCharacters from The Thorn Birds
by Colleen McCullough
Written byDavid Stevens
Directed byKevin James Dobson
Starring
Country of originUnited States
Australia
Original languageEnglish
Production
CinematographyRoss Berryman
Running time178 minutes
Production companiesThe Wolper Organization
Village Roadshow Pictures Television
Warner Bros. Television
Original release
ReleaseFebruary 11, 1996 (1996-02-11) (U.S.)
Infobox instructions (only shown in preview)

The Thorn Birds: The Missing Years is a 1996 CBS miniseries directed by Kevin James Dobson. Adapted from the 1977 novel The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough, it tells the story of the nineteen years between Dane's birth and Ralph's return to Australia. These years are unaccounted for in both the original 1983 ABC miniseries and the novel. Unlike the original, which was filmed in California, The Missing Years was filmed entirely in Australia, and the Drogheda sheep ranch had to be rebuilt from scratch. Actor Richard Chamberlain was also the only previous cast member to return.

The Missing Years received mixed reviews from both critics and audiences, with praise directed at the sets and performances, but criticism directed at the plot and alleged inconsistencies with the original miniseries. However, star Richard Chamberlain was proud of his work on The Missing Years, stating: "It’s a terrific story. It’s full of intrigue. But the love story is classic, an absolute classic. Never have there been so many crucial barriers between the lovers."[1]

  1. ^ "Back on the Ranch : 'THE MISSING YEARS': FATHER RALPH LEAVES THE VATICAN AND MEETS UP WITH MEGGIE. EXACTLY WHAT HAPPENED?". Los Angeles Times. 11 February 1996.