The 1976 BBC drama I, Claudius, adapted from Robert Graves' books I, Claudius and Claudius the God, is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
Epic Roman History
Described by the BBC as 'an epic drama of madness, murder and debauchery', the series is told from the perspective of the elderly Emperor Claudius. It covers the period from 24 BC to his death in AD 54, chronicling the history of the early Roman Empire.
The cast includes Derek Jacobi as Claudius, alongside John Hurt, Brian Blessed, Siân Phillips and Patricia Quinn.
Viewer Praise
I, Claudius has been hugely popular with viewers, many calling it 'a masterpiece'. One person on IMDb.com said: 'If you could only see one more piece of TV in your life - watch this. I first saw this BBC series in the 1970s - it was stunningly good. In the following 40+ years I have seen NOTHING to compare with this, while the average TV output has just become more sensationalised/lurid, trivial and lower quality.'
Another viewer remarked: 'truly one of the greatest TV events ever. I can't agree more with all those who rated this 10 stars. I'd add an extra one for classic. The subject matter is so engrossing and well directed and paced... I have watched the entire series at least four times and that may total a whole day or more of my life, but well worth it.'
A third impressed viewer described it as 'among the finest TV has had to offer', due to 'terrific acting, a very engaging script and the time to properly tell the story of the first four Roman emperors'. Another added: 'Before CG, before high definition, and concerning the antics of a 2000 year old family, I Claudius made television history as one of the most magical and truly stunning pieces dramas ever created. Watching it all again fifty years later, it has lost none of its appeal.'
Somebody else posted a review online calling it 'the best TV programme ever made'. On Rotten Tomatoes, a user said: 'The best miniseries ever made.' Another fan agreed: 'Possibly the best show ever made, certainly in terms of script and acting, which are of the highest level you will ever see on TV.'
I, Claudius is available on BBC iPlayer.
