Ever wondered what to watch after finishing the dramatic saga of Henry VIII and his six wives? When the final credits roll on The Tudors, that emptiness can feel overwhelming. Where else can you find that perfect blend of historical drama, political intrigue, and passionate romances that made The Tudors so addictive? Don’t worry – your next binge-worthy obsession is waiting just around the corner!
The Tudors captivated audiences with its lavish costumes, complex characters, and dramatic retelling of one of history’s most fascinating periods. If you’re craving more shows like The Tudors, you’re in luck. I’ve compiled a list of 12 remarkable historical dramas that will transport you to different eras while delivering the same excitement and drama you loved in The Tudors.
From royal courts to battlefield conquests, these series like The Tudors offer compelling storytelling with historical backdrops that will keep you glued to your screen. Whether you prefer the ruthless political maneuvering, the gorgeous period costumes, or the tangled romantic relationships, these shows have you covered.
Table of Contents
Let’s dive into the world of historical dramas like The Tudors that deserve a spot on your watchlist!
1. The White Queen
The White Queen takes us to England during the War of the Roses, the very conflict that eventually led to the Tudor dynasty. This captivating series follows three women – Elizabeth Woodville, Margaret Beaufort, and Anne Neville – as they scheme, manipulate, and fight for power in a male-dominated world.
The show stars Rebecca Ferguson as Elizabeth Woodville, the commoner who catches the eye of King Edward IV (Max Irons) and becomes his queen, much to the dismay of those around him. Amanda Hale plays Margaret Beaufort, mother of the future Henry VII, while Faye Marsay portrays Anne Neville. The series was developed by Emma Frost based on Philippa Gregory’s novels and aired in 2013 as a 10-episode miniseries. Each episode runs for about 60 minutes, making it perfect for a weekend binge.
The White Queen received positive reviews from critics and viewers alike, earning a respectable 7.8/10 on IMDb. The series was commercially successful for Starz, drawing in consistent viewership throughout its run. It also received several award nominations, including Golden Globe nominations for Best Miniseries and Best Actress for Rebecca Ferguson.
Shows Like The Tudors capture the ruthless world of royal politics, and The White Queen is no exception. Much like The Tudors, it delves into the dangerous intrigues of court life, where ambition knows no bounds. Both series highlight powerful figures willing to scheme and betray to secure their rule. The White Queen also mirrors The Tudors in its portrayal of strong female leads navigating a society determined to suppress them. If you enjoyed the intense political rivalries in The Tudors, you’ll love the shifting alliances and high-stakes drama in The White Queen.
You can stream The White Queen on Starz, Amazon Prime Video, or purchase it on platforms like iTunes and Google Play. Some regions may also have it available on BBC iPlayer.
The White Queen should be your next watch if you’re fascinated by the events that led to the Tudor reign. It provides essential historical context while delivering the same level of drama, romance, and political intrigue that made The Tudors so compelling. The performances are outstanding, particularly Ferguson’s star-making turn as Elizabeth Woodville, a woman determined to secure her family’s position regardless of the obstacles in her path.
2. Wolf Hall
Wolf Hall offers a different perspective on the Tudor court, focusing on the rise of Thomas Cromwell, who served as chief minister to King Henry VIII. Based on Hilary Mantel’s award-winning novels, this series provides a nuanced look at the political machinery behind the events portrayed in The Tudors.
Mark Rylance delivers a masterful performance as Thomas Cromwell, with Damian Lewis playing King Henry VIII and Claire Foy as Anne Boleyn. Peter Kosminsky directed this critically acclaimed six-part series that aired in 2015. Each episode is approximately 60 minutes long, creating a tight, focused narrative that draws viewers into the complex world of Tudor politics.
Wolf Hall received universal acclaim from critics, earning an exceptional 9.1/10 on IMDb and winning multiple BAFTA Television Awards, including Best Drama Series. The show was a ratings success for BBC Two in the UK and PBS in the US, demonstrating that high-quality historical drama can draw substantial audiences. The series’ commercial success led to increased sales of Mantel’s novels as well.
Shows Like The Tudors explore the drama of Henry VIII’s court, but Wolf Hall takes a different approach. While The Tudors highlights the sensational aspects of his reign, Wolf Hall offers a more nuanced, psychological take on the same era. Both series feature key historical figures and the treacherous world of royal politics, yet Wolf Hall stands out with its subtle storytelling and restrained cinematography. Despite their contrasting styles, both shows reveal the perilous nature of court life, where power shifts at the king’s slightest command.
Wolf Hall is available on PBS Masterpiece in the US, BBC iPlayer in the UK, and can be purchased on Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and other digital platforms.
If you appreciated the political intrigue of The Tudors but are looking for something with more psychological depth, Wolf Hall is the perfect choice. The show’s measured pace might feel different at first, but the outstanding performances and meticulous attention to historical detail create an immersive experience that reveals new layers of a familiar story. Mark Rylance’s Thomas Cromwell is unforgettable – a man of humble origins whose keen intelligence allows him to rise to the heights of power while never forgetting the precariousness of his position.
3. The Spanish Princess
The Spanish Princess continues the story begun in The White Queen, focusing on Catherine of Aragon’s arrival in England and her marriage to first Arthur Tudor and then King Henry VIII. This series offers a unique perspective on the early years of the Tudor dynasty before the events depicted in The Tudors.
Charlotte Hope stars as Catherine of Aragon, with Ruairi O’Connor playing Henry VIII, Stephanie Levi-John as Lina de Cardonnes, and Laura Carmichael as Margaret Pole. The series was created by Emma Frost and Matthew Graham as a sequel to The White Queen and The White Princess. It ran for two seasons from 2019 to 2020, with each episode running about 55 minutes.
The Spanish Princess received generally positive reviews from critics and maintains a solid 7.3/10 rating on IMDb. The show performed well for Starz, attracting a dedicated audience interested in Tudor history. While not reaching the commercial heights of some historical dramas, it maintained consistent viewership throughout its run.
Both The Spanish Princess and The Tudors feature the character of Henry VIII, though The Spanish Princess portrays him in his younger years before he became the infamous king we see in The Tudors. The shows share lush production values, detailed costumes, and a focus on the personal relationships behind historical events. The Spanish Princess, like The Tudors, isn’t afraid to take creative liberties with history to enhance dramatic storytelling, though it does give voice to perspectives often overlooked in traditional historical narratives.
You can watch The Spanish Princess on Starz, Hulu (with the Starz add-on), or purchase it digitally on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Google Play.
The Spanish Princess is worth watching for its fresh perspective on a well-known historical figure. Catherine of Aragon is often portrayed only in relation to her failed marriage to Henry VIII, but this series allows her to be the protagonist of her own story. The show highlights her determination, diplomatic skills, and cultural impact on England while providing valuable context for the events that would later unfold in The Tudors. If you’re interested in seeing how the stage was set for the drama you enjoyed in The Tudors, The Spanish Princess offers an engaging and visually stunning prequel.
4. Reign
Reign takes significant creative liberties with history to tell the story of Mary, Queen of Scots, and her time at the French court. This series blends historical elements with fantasy, romance, and contemporary sensibilities to create a unique viewing experience that prioritizes entertainment over strict historical accuracy.
The show stars Adelaide Kane as Mary Stuart, Toby Regbo as Francis II of France, Megan Follows as Catherine de Medici, and Anna Popplewell as Lola. Created by Laurie McCarthy and Stephanie SenGupta, Reign ran for four seasons from 2013 to 2017 on The CW. Episodes typically run for 42 minutes, following the standard network TV format.
Reign received mixed reviews from critics but developed a passionate fan base, particularly among younger viewers. It holds a 7.5/10 rating on IMDb. The show was a modest success for The CW, maintaining enough viewership to warrant four seasons. While not a massive commercial hit, its streaming performance has helped it find new audiences over time.
Shows Like The Tudors bring history to life with drama and intrigue, and Reign follows a similar path. Like The Tudors, it favors storytelling and romance over strict historical accuracy, creating a visually stunning and emotionally intense experience. Both series captivate with lavish costumes—though Reign adds modern touches—and explore the high-stakes world of court politics. They also share themes of power, duty, and the struggle of monarchs to balance personal desires with their responsibilities. Additionally, both highlight how women navigate and influence a male-dominated world.
Reign is available to stream on Netflix in many regions and can also be purchased on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and Google Play.
If you enjoyed The Tudors for its dramatic storytelling and weren’t too concerned about historical accuracy, Reign offers a similar blend of history-inspired drama with a contemporary sensibility. The series is particularly strong in its portrayal of female characters navigating power dynamics and making difficult choices. Catherine de Medici, as played by Megan Follows, is especially compelling – a cunning queen who will stop at nothing to protect her children’s interests. Reign is best approached as historical fantasy rather than a documentary, but for viewers willing to embrace its unique approach, it offers engaging characters and plenty of royal intrigue.
5. The Borgias
The Borgias transports viewers to Renaissance Italy to follow the infamous Borgia family as they scheme, seduce, and murder their way to power within the Catholic Church and beyond. This series shares The Tudors’ interest in how religion, politics, and personal ambition intersect in dramatic and often deadly ways.
Jeremy Irons leads the cast as Rodrigo Borgia (Pope Alexander VI), with François Arnaud as his son Cesare, Holliday Grainger as his daughter Lucrezia, and David Oakes as Juan Borgia. Created by Neil Jordan, the series ran for three seasons from 2011 to 2013 on Showtime. Each episode is approximately 50 minutes long.
The Borgias received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences, maintaining a strong 7.9/10 rating on IMDb. The series was a commercial success for Showtime, although not quite reaching the heights of some of the network’s biggest hits. The show’s cancellation after three seasons was met with disappointment from its dedicated fanbase.
Both The Borgias and The Tudors were created for Showtime and share similar production values and adult content. The shows feature power-hungry protagonists whose personal morality is compromised by their ambition, and both examine how religious institutions can be manipulated for political gain. Like The Tudors, The Borgias doesn’t shy away from depicting the violence and sexuality that characterized its historical period. Both series feature complex family dynamics and the sometimes disturbing relationships between parents and children in powerful dynasties.
You can watch The Borgias on Showtime, Netflix in some regions, or purchase it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
The Borgias is perfect for viewers who appreciated the moral complexity and political machinations in The Tudors. Jeremy Irons gives a captivating performance as Rodrigo Borgia, a man whose genuine faith somehow coexists with his corruption and nepotism. The Italian Renaissance setting provides a visually stunning backdrop that rivals The Tudors’ Tudor England, with sumptuous costumes and set design bringing the period to life. The show excels at portraying the dangerous game of alliances and betrayals that characterized Italian politics during this period, while also exploring the personal costs of pursuing and maintaining power.
6. Rome
Rome takes us back to ancient times, chronicling the transition from Republic to Empire through the eyes of both historical figures like Julius Caesar and fictional common soldiers. This groundbreaking series shares The Tudors’ interest in how individual ambitions shape historical events.
The ensemble cast includes Kevin McKidd as Lucius Vorenus, Ray Stevenson as Titus Pullo, Ciarán Hinds as Julius Caesar, and Polly Walker as Atia of the Julii. Created by Bruno Heller, John Milius, and William J. MacDonald, Rome was a co-production between HBO and the BBC. It ran for two seasons from 2005 to 2007, with episodes typically running 50-60 minutes.
Rome received critical acclaim for its historical detail, compelling characters, and high production values. It maintains an impressive 8.7/10 rating on IMDb. The series was expensive to produce but garnered strong viewership and won numerous awards, including seven Emmy Awards. Its commercial success helped pave the way for other historical dramas, though its high production costs led to its conclusion after two seasons despite strong ratings.
Shows Like The Tudors masterfully mix history with fiction, and Rome does the same, crafting a story that feels both immersive and dramatically compelling. Both series bring historical figures to life by focusing on their personal struggles amid major political events. Like The Tudors, Rome showcases how power, sexuality, and violence shaped history, offering intense drama and intrigue. The two shows also share outstanding performances from their casts and don’t hold back in portraying the brutality of their eras. With meticulous attention to costumes, settings, and cultural details, both series create a richly authentic historical experience.
Rome can be streamed on HBO Max (now Max), purchased on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and iTunes, or found on DVD/Blu-ray.
If you enjoyed The Tudors’ blend of history, politics, and personal drama, Rome offers a similar experience with even higher production values. The series stands out for showing Roman society at all levels, from slaves to emperors, providing a more complete picture of the world than many historical dramas. The friendship between soldiers Vorenus and Pullo provides an emotional anchor throughout the series as they navigate a changing Rome with very different personalities and values. Rome’s influence on subsequent historical dramas (including The Tudors) is significant, and it remains one of the finest examples of the genre.
7. Versailles
Versailles focuses on the early reign of Louis XIV of France as he builds his magnificent palace while dealing with nobles who resist his centralizing of power. The series captures the opulence, intrigue, and dangerous seductions of the French court.
George Blagden stars as Louis XIV, with Alexander Vlahos as his brother Philippe, Tygh Runyan as Fabien Marchal, and Stuart Bowman as Bontemps. Created by Simon Mirren and David Wolstencroft, the series ran for three seasons from 2015 to 2018. Each episode is approximately 52 minutes long.
Versailles received generally positive reviews, particularly for its lavish production design and costumes. It holds a 7.9/10 rating on IMDb. The series was a significant investment for Canal+ and became one of the most expensive French television productions ever made. While viewership numbers varied across different international markets, the show found particular success in streaming, allowing it to reach a global audience.
Both Versailles and The Tudors center on charismatic monarchs whose personal lives become entangled with matters of state. The shows share a focus on court intrigue, sexual politics, and the isolation that comes with absolute power. Like The Tudors, Versailles features stunning costumes and set designs that bring its historical period to life. Both series also explore how monarchs must balance personal desires against political necessities, and how those in power use marriage, sex, and family connections as political tools.
Versailles can be streamed on Netflix in some regions, Amazon Prime Video, or purchased on platforms like iTunes and Google Play.
Versailles offers a perfect next watch for fans of The Tudors who enjoy court intrigue and sumptuous historical settings. The palace itself becomes almost a character in the show, with its glittering halls concealing dangerous secrets and conspiracies. Louis XIV, like Henry VIII in The Tudors, is portrayed as a complex man struggling with the burdens of kingship while indulging his personal appetites. The relationship between Louis and his brother Philippe is particularly well-drawn, showing how even the most powerful men in France are constrained by their roles and responsibilities. The show’s gorgeous visuals and exploration of power make it a natural successor to The Tudors.
8. The Last Kingdom
The Last Kingdom takes viewers to 9th-century England, when the land was divided into separate kingdoms under constant threat from Viking invaders. This action-packed series follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon born nobleman raised by Vikings, as he navigates divided loyalties in a turbulent time.
Alexander Dreymon stars as Uhtred, with David Dawson as King Alfred, Emily Cox as Brida, and Eliza Butterworth as Aelswith. Developed by Stephen Butchard based on Bernard Cornwell’s “The Saxon Stories” novels, the series began on BBC Two before moving to Netflix. It ran for five seasons from 2015 to 2022, with a concluding film released in 2023. Episodes typically run for 50-60 minutes.
The Last Kingdom received strong reviews throughout its run, with praise for its action sequences, character development, and historical setting. It maintains an impressive 8.5/10 on IMDb. The series grew in popularity after moving to Netflix, where it found a global audience. Its commercial success led to Netflix funding additional seasons and the film “Seven Kings Must Die” to conclude the story.
While The Last Kingdom is set in a much earlier period than The Tudors, both series explore how personal loyalties and national identities shape historical events. Both shows feature charismatic lead characters who must navigate complex political landscapes where allegiances shift quickly. The Last Kingdom, like The Tudors, doesn’t shy away from depicting the violence of its era and shows how religion was used as both a unifying force and a tool for control. Both series also excel at humanizing historical figures, making their motivations and conflicts relatable to modern audiences.
The Last Kingdom is available to stream on Netflix worldwide.
If you enjoyed the political maneuvering and action sequences in The Tudors, The Last Kingdom offers these elements in abundance. The series excels at portraying the cultural clash between Saxons and Danes, with Uhtred embodying this conflict as a man caught between two worlds. The relationship between Uhtred and King Alfred is particularly compelling, showing two men who respect but don’t trust each other, forced to work together despite their differences. While The Last Kingdom features more battle sequences than The Tudors, it shares the same interest in how personal relationships influence historical events and how individuals maintain their identity in societies undergoing dramatic change.
9. Outlander
Outlander blends historical drama with elements of romance, adventure, and time travel. While the fantasy element sets it apart from strictly historical shows like The Tudors, its detailed portrayal of 18th-century Scotland (and later America) provides a similarly immersive historical experience.
Caitriona Balfe stars as Claire Randall, with Sam Heughan as Jamie Fraser, Tobias Menzies as Frank Randall/Black Jack Randall, and Sophie Skelton as Brianna Randall Fraser. Developed by Ronald D. Moore based on Diana Gabaldon’s novel series, Outlander premiered in 2014 on Starz and has run for six seasons with a seventh in production. Episodes typically run for 60 minutes.
Outlander has received consistent critical acclaim, particularly for the performances of its leads and its production values. It maintains a strong 8.4/10 on IMDb. The series has been a major commercial success for Starz, driving subscriber growth and generating substantial merchandise sales. The show has also significantly boosted tourism to its Scottish filming locations.
Shows Like The Tudors transport viewers to richly detailed historical worlds, and Outlander does just that with its immersive settings, costumes, and cultural authenticity. Both series weave passionate romances into dramatic historical events, capturing the beauty and brutality of their respective eras. While Outlander includes fantasy elements, both shows remain deeply rooted in historical storytelling, exploring how personal lives are shaped by political and social forces. Additionally, each series is driven by powerful performances that bring their historical narratives to life.
Outlander can be streamed on Starz, Netflix (in some regions), or purchased on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and Google Play.
If you appreciated The Tudors’ blend of history, politics, and romance, Outlander offers a similar combination with the added intrigue of its time-travel premise. Claire’s modern perspective allows viewers to experience historical events through contemporary eyes, creating a unique entry point into the past. The relationship between Claire and Jamie forms the emotional core of the series, but the historical context – including the Jacobite rebellion and its aftermath – provides rich dramatic material. Outlander is particularly strong in its depiction of how ordinary people lived during its historical periods, showing aspects of daily life that many historical dramas overlook.
10. Victoria
Victoria chronicles the early reign of Queen Victoria from her ascension to the throne at age 18 through her marriage to Prince Albert and beyond. Like The Tudors, this series explores the personal and political challenges faced by a monarch coming to terms with their power.
Jenna Coleman stars as Queen Victoria, with Tom Hughes as Prince Albert, Rufus Sewell as Lord Melbourne, and Nell Hudson as Nancy Skerrett. Created by Daisy Goodwin, Victoria premiered in 2016 on ITV in the UK and PBS in the US. The series has run for three seasons, with episodes typically running 45-60 minutes.
Victoria received positive reviews, with particular praise for Coleman’s performance as the young queen. It holds a strong 8.2/10 on IMDb. The series has been commercially successful in both the UK and US markets, with strong ratings for ITV and PBS respectively. The show’s popularity has contributed to renewed interest in Queen Victoria and the Victorian era.
Both Victoria and The Tudors depict monarchs whose personal lives are inextricably linked with political matters of state. Both series explore how rulers balance personal happiness against duty to their country and show the isolated nature of royal power. Like The Tudors, Victoria features lavish production design that brings its historical period to life, from the grandeur of palace rooms to the details of royal ceremonies. Both shows also humanize their royal protagonists, showing their vulnerabilities and mistakes alongside their strengths.
Victoria can be streamed on PBS Masterpiece, BritBox, Amazon Prime Video (with relevant subscriptions), or purchased on platforms like iTunes and Google Play.
If you enjoyed watching a monarch navigate the complexities of power in The Tudors, Victoria offers a similar journey with a very different ruler. Victoria’s youth and gender create unique challenges as she asserts her authority in a male-dominated system. The series excels at showing her growth from an inexperienced teenager to a confident queen while navigating both political crises and personal relationships. The love story between Victoria and Albert forms the emotional heart of the series, showing how their partnership strengthens them both personally and politically. Victoria provides a fascinating look at a transformative period in British history through the eyes of the woman at its center.
11. The Crown
The Crown offers an intimate look at the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, from her early years on the throne to modern times. While set in a much more recent period than The Tudors, this acclaimed series shares its interest in the personal costs of wearing the crown.
The series features an evolving cast as characters age, with Claire Foy and Olivia Colman playing Queen Elizabeth II in earlier seasons, and Imelda Staunton in later ones. Other notable cast members include Matt Smith and Tobias Menzies as Prince Philip, and Vanessa Kirby and Helena Bonham Carter as Princess Margaret. Created by Peter Morgan, The Crown premiered on Netflix in 2016 and is set to conclude with its sixth season. Episodes typically run 50-60 minutes.
The Crown has received universal acclaim from critics, winning numerous awards including multiple Emmys and Golden Globes. It maintains an outstanding 8.7/10 on IMDb. The series has been one of Netflix’s most prestigious productions, attracting significant viewership worldwide. Its commercial success has been matched by its cultural impact, influencing public perceptions of the British royal family.
Despite their different time periods, both The Crown and The Tudors explore the tension between personal desires and public duty that defines royal life. Both series show how monarchs must sacrifice personal happiness for the sake of the crown and explore the isolation that comes with supreme power. Like The Tudors, The Crown features exceptional production values, performances, and writing that bring historical events to life. Both shows also examine how the public’s relationship with monarchy evolves over time and how rulers must adapt to changing social expectations.
The Crown is exclusively available on Netflix worldwide.
If you appreciated The Tudors’ exploration of the personal costs of power, The Crown offers perhaps the most nuanced examination of this theme in any historical drama. By focusing on recent history, the series creates immediate relevance while still providing the fascinating glimpse behind palace doors that makes royal dramas so compelling. The Crown excels at humanizing figures who often seem distant in public life, showing their private struggles, doubts, and relationships. The series is particularly strong in its examination of how traditions adapt (or fail to adapt) to changing times, and how individuals within the royal family navigate their unusual position in society.
12. Medici
Medici takes viewers to Renaissance Florence to follow the powerful banking family that became patrons of the arts and influenced European politics for generations. Like The Tudors, this series explores how an influential family navigates politics, religion, and personal ambition.
The first season stars Richard Madden as Cosimo de’ Medici, with Dustin Hoffman as Giovanni de’ Medici and Stuart Martin as Lorenzo de’ Medici. Later seasons feature Daniel Sharman as the adult Lorenzo. Created by Frank Spotnitz and Nicholas Meyer, Medici ran for three seasons from 2016 to 2019. Episodes typically run for 50-60 minutes.
Medici received mixed to positive reviews from critics but developed a loyal audience, particularly among historical drama enthusiasts. It holds a 7.9/10 on IMDb. The series was a co-production between Italian and international partners, allowing for a substantial budget that is evident in its production values. While not reaching the global audience of some streaming hits, it performed well in European markets and found additional viewers through Netflix.
Like The Tudors, Medici explores how wealth, political power, and religious authority intersected in European history. Both series feature families whose influence shaped nations and whose personal decisions had far-reaching consequences. Medici, like The Tudors, showcases the artistic and cultural flowering of its historical period alongside political machinations. Both shows also depict how ambitious families maintained power through strategic marriages, alliances, and sometimes ruthless actions against enemies.
Medici is available to stream on Netflix in most regions.
If you enjoyed watching the Tudor dynasty reshape England in The Tudors, you’ll appreciate seeing how the Medici family transformed Florence and influenced the Italian Renaissance. The series does an excellent job portraying how banking and commerce created new forms of power that rivaled traditional aristocracy. The Florentine setting is brought to life with stunning cinematography that showcases the architecture and art of the period. Medici particularly excels when exploring how patronage of artists like Donatello and Brunelleschi was used to enhance the family’s prestige and legacy. The show offers a compelling look at how modern banking, politics, and art patronage evolved during this pivotal historical period.
Which Show Like The Tudors Should You Watch Next?
Now that we’ve explored 12 historical dramas similar to The Tudors, you might be wondering which one to watch first. Here’s a quick reference guide to help you decide based on what aspects of The Tudors you enjoyed most:
| Show | Time Period | Best For Fans Who Loved… | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| The White Queen | 15th Century England | Political intrigue, strong female characters | Starz, Amazon Prime |
| Wolf Hall | Tudor England | Thomas Cromwell, court politics | PBS, BBC iPlayer |
| The Spanish Princess | Early Tudor England | Catherine of Aragon, young Henry VIII | Starz, Hulu |
| Reign | 16th Century France/Scotland | Romance, drama, royal courts | Netflix |
| The Borgias | Renaissance Italy | Corrupt power, family dynamics | Showtime, Netflix |
| Rome | Ancient Rome | Military campaigns, political maneuvering | HBO Max |
| Versailles | 17th Century France | Lavish courts, royal scandals | Netflix, Amazon Prime |
| The Last Kingdom | 9th Century England | Action, conflict between cultures | Netflix |
| Outlander | 18th Century Scotland | Romance, detailed historical settings | Starz, Netflix |
| Victoria | 19th Century England | Young monarch learning to rule | PBS, BritBox |
| The Crown | 20th-21st Century England | Modern monarchy, family drama | Netflix |
| Medici | Renaissance Florence | Art, banking, Italian politics | Netflix |
FAQ: Shows Like The Tudors
Are these shows historically accurate like The Tudors?
Much like The Tudors itself, these shows vary in their historical accuracy. Some, like Wolf Hall and The Crown, stay relatively close to historical records while still taking creative liberties. Others, like Reign and Outlander, use history more as a backdrop for fictional storytelling. All of these series prioritize compelling drama over strict historical accuracy, but they still provide valuable insights into their respective time periods.
Which of these shows has the most similar tone to The Tudors?
The Borgias probably comes closest to matching The Tudors in tone, production style, and content. Both were created for Showtime and feature similar approaches to historical drama, including adult content and political intrigue. The White Queen and The Spanish Princess also share thematic elements with The Tudors, focusing on the same general period of English history.
Are any of these shows appropriate for family viewing?
Most of these shows, like The Tudors, contain adult content including violence, sexual content, and mature themes. Victoria and perhaps The Crown are the most family-friendly options on this list, though even they contain some mature content. Always check ratings and reviews if you’re concerned about specific content.
How long will it take to watch all these series?
That’s a substantial time commitment! Combined, these 12 series represent over 500 hours of viewing. If you watched just one episode per day, it would take well over a year to complete them all. Consider starting with the series that most closely matches your interests.
Are there any historical figures who appear in multiple shows on this list?
Yes! Several historical figures appear across multiple shows. For example, you can see different portrayals of Henry VIII in The Tudors, Wolf Hall, and The Spanish Princess. Margaret Tudor appears in both The Spanish Princess and Reign. Historical connections between these series add an interesting layer for history enthusiasts.
Which show has the best costumes and set design?
Versailles, The Crown, and The Borgias are particularly renowned for their stunning visual elements, though all these shows feature high production values. If you especially enjoyed the visual splendor of The Tudors, you’ll likely appreciate the attention to detail in these series as well.
Are there any shows focused on Tudor history not included on this list?
Yes! Other notable Tudor-era series include “Elizabeth I” starring Helen Mirren, “The Virgin Queen” with Anne-Marie Duff, and the documentary series “Tudor Monastery Farm” for a look at ordinary life during the period. These might be worth exploring if you’re particularly interested in Tudor England.
Now you’re fully equipped to continue your historical drama journey beyond The Tudors! Whether you’re drawn to the political intrigue, the romantic entanglements, or the fascinating historical settings, these 12 shows offer hundreds of hours of captivating storytelling. Happy viewing!
