Source: Woman’s World
he hit series All Creatures Great and Small is inspired by the real-life Yorkshire veterinarian James Alfred Wight, who wrote under the pen name James Herriot. First adapted by the BBC in 1978 and revived in 2020, the show follows Herriot’s early career working with fellow veterinarians in the Yorkshire Dales. In reality, Wight—known as Alf—was born in England and raised in Scotland, graduating from Glasgow Veterinary College at age 23. He later moved to rural Yorkshire, where his experiences treating animals and interacting with colorful locals became the foundation for his semi-autobiographical books.
With encouragement from his wife, Joan, Wight began writing in the early 1970s, publishing beloved titles including All Creatures Great and Small and its sequels. A WWII Royal Air Force veteran, Wight balanced family life and Veterinary work while building a literary legacy. Today, his enduring stories continue to inspire audiences through television adaptations and a newly launched podcast featuring his children.