Anne of Avonlea (1987 TV Mini-Series)

Anne of Avonlea (also known as Anne of Green Gables: The Sequel) is the beloved follow-up to the 1985 TV adaptation of Anne of Green Gables. Based on Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne of Avonlea and other books in the Anne Shirley series, this four-hour mini-series continues the story of Anne as she matures into adulthood and navigates new challenges in her career, relationships, and self-discovery.
The series begins with Anne Shirley (Megan Follows), now a young woman, embarking on her journey as a teacher in Avonlea. Determined to make a difference in her students’ lives, Anne brings her boundless imagination and passion for education into the classroom, although her unconventional methods often spark controversy.
As Anne grows, so do her ambitions. She leaves Avonlea to pursue a career as a writer and finds herself teaching at a girls’ school in Kingsport, where she encounters new friends and challenges. Along the way, Anne’s independent spirit clashes with societal expectations, and she begins to question her dreams.
The series also explores Anne’s evolving relationships with the people she holds dear, including Marilla Cuthbert (Colleen Dewhurst), her guardian and moral anchor, and Gilbert Blythe (Jonathan Crombie), her longtime friend and admirer. Despite misunderstandings and personal obstacles, Anne and Gilbert’s bond deepens, culminating in a heartfelt conclusion that hints at their romantic future.