A cancelled period drama has been hailed as an 'absolute must' for fans of period dramas, particularly those who love Downton Abbey. The series, titled Still Star-Crossed, is an American romance show that serves as a continuation of William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
Background of the Series
Created by Heather Mitchell and based on the 2013 novel by Melinda Taub, Still Star-Crossed was produced by Shonda Rhimes's Shondaland, the production company behind hits like Grey's Anatomy, Station 19, Scandal, and How to Get Away with Murder. The drama premiered in May 2017 but was cancelled by ABC after just one season, leaving its fanbase devastated.
Plot Summary
The official synopsis reads: 'Following the deaths of Romeo and Juliet, Rosaline Capulet is betrothed against her will to Benvolio Montague. As the two try to prevent the marriage and the destruction of their warring families, a secret society known as The Fiend attempts to depose the beleaguered Prince Escalus by inciting war between the two families.'
Cast and Performances
Lashana Lynch stars as Rosaline Capulet, alongside Grant Bowler, Wade Briggs, and Sterling Sulieman as Lord Damiano Montague, Benvolio Montague, and Prince Escalus, respectively. The ensemble also includes Torrance Coombs, Dan Hildebrand, Ebonée Noel, Medalion Rahimi, Zuleikha Robinson, Susan Wooldridge, and Anthony Head, who sadly passed away last week at age 72.
Fan Reactions
Despite its cancellation, viewers continue to express their love for the series. On Instagram, Shondaland celebrated the show's 9th anniversary, prompting fans to comment: 'Ahead of its time' and 'A masterpiece!! Bring it back!'
On IMDb, one user wrote: 'Omg I never thought that a period piece would be so exciting and exhilarating, it made me have white knuckles. I lost all feelings in my extremities waiting to see the next episode.' Another added: 'The best Shakespeare adaptation ever.' A third remarked: 'I LOVE this show! I am a sucker for period dramas. If you love Downton Abbey, then this is perfect for you.'
A fourth viewer said: 'Absolutely amazing! This show is one of the most phenomenal medieval shows ever. Honestly, I hope they don't cancel it. So far, there are only three episodes, and I am hooked! Rosaline always has me wanting more. Can't wait to see what the future holds for her love story. I'm hoping she ends up with Benvolio, and her sister gets a happy ending. WATCH THIS SHOW, IT'S AN ABSOLUTE MUST (for drama and romance lovers!).'
Another fan noted: 'This is the show I've been waiting for, seriously,' while a fellow enthusiast added: 'The story is well written and one of the best shows on TV. Amazing. 10 stars. Absolutely phenomenal.'
Availability
Still Star-Crossed is available to purchase via Google Play.
