Bonnets at the ready, with 2025 marking two and a half centuries since Jane Austen’s birth, does “bad lad” Mr Darcy still do it for Gen Z?

From erotic audio books to one-woman comedy shows, an Austen invasion is under way this year with various reinterpretations of her work being offered up from those savvy enough to spot a marketing opportunity.

Many promise their own modern twists on classics like Pride & Prejudice but does Austen’s work really need updating to appeal to…