For fans of The Crown, the wait for new episodes can feel interminable. Fortunately, there are numerous captivating shows that offer similar themes of royalty, historical drama, and intricate personal relationships.
Here are nine shows to binge-watch that will satisfy your craving for royal intrigue and period storytelling.
1. Downton Abbey
Set in the early 20th century, Downton Abbey chronicles the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants. The series begins with the sinking of the Titanic, which prompts a search for a new heir to the estate. The show explores class dynamics, romance, and historical events, making it a must-watch for fans of royal dramas.
2. The Gilded Age
Created by Julian Fellowes, the mastermind behind Downton Abbey, The Gilded Age delves into the lives of the wealthy elite in 1880s New York City. It follows the societal struggles and ambitions of its characters as they navigate the complexities of wealth and power, paralleling the themes of ambition and duty found in The Crown.
3. Bridgerton
This Shonda Rhimes-produced series is set in Regency-era London and focuses on the romantic entanglements of the Bridgerton family. With its vibrant characters and lush visuals, Bridgerton combines romance and societal expectations, making it a delightful watch for those who enjoyed the matchmaking elements of The Crown.
4. The Great
A satirical take on the life of Catherine the Great, The Great stars Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult. This series offers a humorous yet dramatic portrayal of Catherine’s rise to power in Russia, filled with lavish costumes and sharp wit, providing a campy contrast to the more serious tone of The Crown.
5. Victoria
This PBS series follows the early reign of Queen Victoria, showcasing her struggles to balance her royal duties with her personal life. The show highlights her relationships, including her marriage to Prince Albert, and offers a glimpse into the challenges of being a young monarch, akin to the personal explorations in The Crown.
6. Catherine the Great
This four-part miniseries stars Helen Mirren as the formidable Empress of Russia. It explores her rise to power and the political and personal challenges she faced, echoing the themes of leadership and personal sacrifice found in The Crown.
7. The Tudors
Focusing on the tumultuous reign of King Henry VIII, The Tudors presents a more scandalous and intimate look at royal life. With Jonathan Rhys Meyers in the lead role, the series is rich in drama and historical intrigue, appealing to those who enjoy the darker aspects of royal narratives.
8. The Empress
This series follows the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, exploring her marriage to Emperor Franz Joseph and the complexities of court life. It captures the essence of royal duty and personal conflict, similar to the narrative style of The Crown.
9. The Royal House of Windsor
For those who prefer documentaries, The Royal House of Windsor provides a detailed account of the British royal family, tracing their history from World War I to the present day. This series offers a factual perspective on the monarchy, complementing the dramatized storytelling of The Crown with real historical context.
These shows not only provide entertainment but also enrich viewers’ understanding of historical events and the lives of those who shaped them. Whether you prefer drama, romance, or documentary, there’s something here to keep you engrossed until the next installment of The Crown arrives.
