Mark Gatiss, known for his love of the macabre, is bringing E. Nesbit’s chilling short story Man-Size in Marble to life as part of the BBC’s tradition of Christmas ghost stories. With his keen eye for suspense and atmosphere, Gatiss is set to give this classic tale a fresh adaptation while preserving its eerie charm.
Man-Size in Marble follows the unsettling story of a newlywed couple who move into a quaint English village. They soon learn about a local legend involving two malevolent statues that come to life each Halloween. What begins as mere folklore quickly descends into terror as the line between superstition and reality blurs. Gatiss, no stranger to ghostly tales, promises to heighten the story’s dread, exploring its psychological and supernatural elements in equal measure.
This adaptation is part of Gatiss’s ongoing mission to honor the tradition of Christmas ghost stories on the BBC, a practice popularized by M.R. James. Speaking about the project, Gatiss said, “Man-Size in Marble is one of those rare gems that combines human vulnerability with spine-chilling horror. It’s perfect for a dark winter evening.”
Fans of Gatiss’s previous works, such as The League of Gentlemen and Sherlock, can expect his signature blend of dark humor and atmospheric tension. As the BBC continues its commitment to showcasing literary ghost stories, Gatiss’s adaptation is poised to be a standout entry in this celebrated tradition.
