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."