TV's historical fiction has lately been intertwining with contemporary culture, bringing onboard a new generation of audiences. With seasons 3 and 4 of Bridgerton brewing in the Shondaland labs, fans are looking to find other avenues to fuel their lavish period drama needs.
To those who are still not satiated from this season of Bridgerton's drama and romance, extend the bill on your streaming services to indulge in these similarly scandalous shows. From light-hearted romcoms to historically dense dramas, travel into the past to live out your regal fantasies.
The Great
A satirical take on Catherine the Great’s reign over Imperial Russia, this comedy-drama understands how to not take itself too seriously. Packed with modern references and quirky, out-of-context moments, the series showcases Elle Fanning’s comedic range by oscillating from chaotic absurdity to tense realism.
What The Great manages to do best is subtly critique the conventions of period dramas. It transposes the issues of the modern world into Catherine’s regal 18th Century world, highlighting the specific social issues that still hold up to this day. Creator Tony McNamara describes The Great as “less of a period drama, and more like historical fan-fic”.
Stream The Great on Hulu and Apple TV.
Outlander
Outlander is an ambitious historical fiction chronicling a World War II nurse who has been transported back into the 18th Century. Adapted from Diana Gabaldon's novels, the show is a gritty depiction of Scottish culture with a considerable degree of historical accuracy.
Outlander is heavy on romance and is perfect for the late-night binge. The on-screen chemistry between Caitríona Balfe and Sam Heughan is undeniable, both having received accolades for their performances. The show is not for the squeamish, as it does explore heavily mature themes in graphic and explicit instances.
Stream Outlander on Starz and Netflix.
Sanditon
Based on the Jane Austen unfinished novel of the same name, Sanditon details the life of a spirited Charlotte Heywood as she navigates her new life in a new town. Also set in the Regency period, Sanditon takes things to the seaside but remains as dramatic and heartfelt as the city.
In similar Bridgerton fashion, the show dances on the line of steamy and classical romance. Diverting slightly from Jane Austen’s style, elements of Sanditon have been modernized to outreach to a large set of viewers but manage to maintain the charm of Regency etiquette.
Stream Sanditon on PBS, Amazon Prime, and Apple TV.
Reign
Popular CW series Reign is not shy about exploring the intimate and private lifestyle of Mary Queen of Scots, no matter how fictionalized or embellished. The show is purposefully inaccurate to its historical period, borrowing the aesthetic of Medieval Scotland as a playing ground for romance, scandal, and drama.
It is safe to assume most CW viewers do not expect historical accuracy when it comes to their shows, but what Reign subsides for in factual precision is made up for in acting and stunning costume design. The gowns and corsets in the show are nothing short of enviable and give flair to the already visually stunning sets of the show.
Stream Reign on Netflix and Apple TV.
Dickinson
Dickinson is another modernized presentation of a historical figure, where it purposefully tweaks the life of Emily Dickinson and early Victorian society into a surreal coming of age story. The show explores her journey as a poet, where societal preconceptions of sexuality and gender influence the impact on her craft.
The intertwining of modern culture in Emily’s world nods to her as a woman ahead of her time. By satirizing the mundane aspects of 19th Century living, the show brings to life the words on her paper in a colorful and dreamlike way. From the soundtrack, the themes, and the nod to modern humor, the show is campy and larger than life, the perfect blend of tongue-in-cheek humor.
Stream Dickinson on Apple TV.
Vanity Fair
Based on William Makepeace Thackery’s novel, this historical miniseries is a quick binge of romance, strategy, and class hierarchy. Only spanning seven episodes, Vanity Fair is the perfect quick fix for understanding the cutthroat standards of wealth and society during the changing times of the Napoleonic Wars.
Following an intelligent and cunning Becky Sharp’s climb to the top of the British elite, the show dives into the customs of high society living and what it takes to survive amongst the sharks. From the writing to the costume design, Vanity Fair exudes quality. Those with a keen eye can look out for Bridgerton alum Claudia Jessie as Amelia Sedley.
Stream Vanity Fair on Amazon Prime and Apple TV.
Victoria
Based on the early diary entries of Queen Victoria, the show is a whimsical (and slightly embellished) recount of her courtship and marriage to Prince Albert, as well as her adjustment to politics and other royal duties.
As a young woman thrust into the spotlight, it is hard not to sympathize with the sudden pressure that has been placed on Victoria. The show captures her youthful essence charmingly, blending her naïveté with strong-willed determination. Jenna Coleman effortlessly sells her role with a delicate grace and is a definite standout through her performance.
Stream Victoria on Apple TV.
Downton Abbey
The early 20th Century saw notable changes in society, forcing traditionalists to face an influx of modernization. The show oversees the scandalous lives of the Downton Abbey estate, following the wealthy aristocrat family, the Crawleys, and the scheming nature of their employees.
Downton Abbey manages to capture the instability of a changing world through the fluctuating fate of social hierarchy. It is a race to the top of the pyramid, carefully decorated with flowers and lace trimmings of Edwardian society. The show is a perfect example of classical period drama, as it is overflowing with slow-burn romances, social climbing, and conspiracies.
Stream Downton Abbey on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Apple TV.
The Crown
Chronicling Queen Elizabeth II’s reign over the British monarchy, The Crown is the perfect dramatization of life inside contemporary royalty. This award-winning Netflix series may be a meatier bite than most, but with its intricate navigation of politics, scandal, and evolving society, this series will have a chokehold on your obsession with the Royal Family.
Known for its detail and historical accuracy, The Crown excels in all aspects: acting, directing, writing, cinematography, and production. Every minute is dense with style and flair, from calculated dialogue to lavishly built sets. Having collected over 129 awards and 423 nominations, The Crown truly is a period masterpiece.
Stream The Crown on Netflix.
Versailles
What happens in the Palace of Versailles stays in the Palace of Versailles, unless streaming this series. Following a young King Louis XIV’s relocation to Versailles, the show is a flamboyant and hedonistic take on his time on the throne.
Versailles is a diorama of French opulence, where each set and scene is dressed down to intricate details. The wig budget alone could be eye-watering, with the beautifully decorated costumes being a staple to the show. Beyond the faux fantasy world, Versailles also does not stray from the nitty-gritty, as sex and violence are graphic and depicted explicitly. Intriguing and filled with drama, this show is materialism at its finest.
Stream Versailles on Netflix, Starz, and Apple TV.