The acclaimed period drama 'The Borgias' has become available for free streaming on Channel 4, sparking renewed calls from fans for the series to be revived. The show, which originally aired from 2011 to 2013, is set in Renaissance-era Italy and follows the rise to power of the Borgia family, a real noble family of Spanish origins.
A Masterpiece of Historical Drama
Starring Jeremy Irons as Pope Alexander VI, Francois Arnaud as Cesare, Holliday Grainger as Lucrezia, and David Oakes as Juan, the series delves into the scandalous ascension of the Borgias to the papacy. It explores the highs and lows they face and their relentless struggle to maintain power, fictionalizing the volatile political landscape of 15th-century Europe.
Perfect for fans of 'Game of Thrones,' the show is renowned for its ruthless political intrigue, backstabbing, betrayals, and scandals within power-hungry dynasties. Viewers have heaped praise on the series, with one fan begging: 'For the love of god bring back that show! It's exceptional and one of a kind show… I'm just in love with The Borgias!'
Fan Reactions and Acclaim
Another fan described it as 'so good it's stunning,' adding, 'Overall, a superb and satisfying journey throughout that I will never forget.' A third called it 'too good for TV,' while another rated it '10 out of 10 stars for the masterpiece that is this show!' One viewer labeled it a 'perfect mini series,' and another wrote: 'This is by far the best historical drama I have ever seen! The acting was completely amazing and it kept me completely entranced up to the very last second!'
The series has also been hailed as 'magnificent,' with one fan noting: 'The acting is flawless by the main characters! The story, script and costumes are wonderful! I've watched it over and over, many times!' Another simply stated: 'The Borgias is one of the best series I have ever watched!'
Award Recognition
Beyond fan adoration, 'The Borgias' earned 16 Emmy nominations and three wins, including two for Outstanding Costumes for a Series and one for Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music. Despite its critical and popular success, the show was cancelled after three seasons, with no fourth season ordered.
In 2013, David Nevins, President of Entertainment at Showtime Networks Inc, confirmed the decision, stating: 'It has been an honor to work with the great Neil Jordan and the incomparable Jeremy Irons on The Borgias. Neil has written nearly every episode of this series himself. His extraordinary storytelling combined with Jeremy's fascinating portrayal of the infamous Pope Alexander VI, has made for truly outstanding television that will live on. I look forward to future collaborations.'
Fans can now stream all three seasons of 'The Borgias' for free on Channel 4, reigniting hope for a potential revival.
