If you’re a fan of historical dramas like The Crown, you’re in for a treat. This genre offers a rich tapestry of stories that blend real events with compelling fiction. Below are 16 TV shows that capture the essence of historical drama, each with its own unique twist.
1. Victoria
Victoria chronicles the early life of Queen Victoria, from her ascension to the throne at the tender age of 18 to her enduring relationship with Prince Albert. Starring Jenna Coleman and Tom Hughes, this series offers a detailed look at the complexities of royal life.
2. Downton Abbey
Downton Abbey takes you into the lives of the Crawley family and their servants, set against the backdrop of early 20th-century England. With a stellar cast including Hugh Bonneville and Maggie Smith, this show is a masterclass in period drama.
3. The Tudors
The Tudors focuses on the tumultuous reign of King Henry VIII, exploring his marriages and political maneuvers. Jonathan Rhys Meyers stars as the infamous king, with Natalie Dormer and Henry Cavill in supporting roles.
4. Reign
Reign follows the early life of Mary, Queen of Scots, as she navigates the treacherous waters of French court politics. Adelaide Kane stars as Mary, supported by Megan Follows and Torrance Coombs.
5. Versailles
Versailles delves into the reign of Louis XIV and the construction of the Palace of Versailles. George Blagden stars as the Sun King, with Alexander Vlahos playing his brother, Philippe.
6. The White Queen
The White Queen is set during the War of the Roses and follows three women vying for the English throne. Rebecca Ferguson, Amanda Hale, and Faye Marsay deliver powerful performances in this gripping historical drama.
7. The Spanish Princess
The Spanish Princess tells the story of Catherine of Aragon, the Spanish princess who would become the first wife of Henry VIII. Charlotte Hope stars as Catherine, with Ruairi O’Connor as Henry.
8. Peaky Blinders
Peaky Blinders is a gritty crime drama set in post-World War I Birmingham, focusing on the Shelby crime family. Cillian Murphy leads the cast, with Helen McCrory and Paul Anderson in key roles.
9. Outlander
Outlander follows Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who finds herself transported back to 18th-century Scotland. Caitriona Balfe and Sam Heughan star in this time-traveling romance.
10. Wolf Hall
Wolf Hall offers a detailed look at Thomas Cromwell’s rise to power in the court of Henry VIII. Mark Rylance stars as Cromwell, with Damian Lewis as Henry VIII.
11. The Last Kingdom
The Last Kingdom is set in 9th-century England and follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon nobleman raised by Vikings. Alexander Dreymon stars as Uhtred, with David Dawson and Emily Cox in supporting roles.
12. Medici: Masters of Florence
Medici: Masters of Florence explores the rise of the Medici family in Renaissance Italy. Richard Madden stars as Cosimo de’ Medici, with Dustin Hoffman as Giovanni de’ Medici.
13. The Borgias
The Borgias delves into the infamous Borgia family’s rise to power in Renaissance Italy. Jeremy Irons stars as Pope Alexander VI, with François Arnaud and Holliday Grainger in key roles.
14. The Crown Prince
The Crown Prince focuses on the life of Rudolf, Crown Prince of Austria, and his tragic end. Max von Thun stars as Rudolf, with Vittoria Puccini as Mary Vetsera.
15. The Hollow Crown
The Hollow Crown is a series of Shakespearean adaptations focusing on the lives of various English kings. Ben Whishaw, Jeremy Irons, and Tom Hiddleston deliver powerful performances.
16. The Great
The Great is a satirical take on the rise of Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia. Elle Fanning stars as Catherine, with Nicholas Hoult playing Emperor Peter III.
Whether you’re fascinated by royal intrigue or historical events, these TV shows offer a captivating escape into the past. Happy watching!
