Medici: Masters of Florence hailed as 'masterpiece' decade after debut
Medici: Masters of Florence hailed as masterpiece decade on

A historical drama series hailed as a 'masterpiece' is said to get better with each season, according to devoted fans. Medici: Masters of Florence first aired in 2016, following the House of Medici, the bankers of the Pope in 15th-century Florence.

A decade of Renaissance drama

Each season covers events from a particular moment in the family's history as they navigate the political turbulence of Renaissance Italy. The first season, starring Richard Madden and Stuart Martin, is set in 1429, the year the head of the family died. His son Cosimo succeeds him and fights to maintain their power in Florence.

The second instalment takes place decades later, starring Daniel Sharman, Bradley James and Sarah Parish. It tells the story of Cosimo's grandson Lorenzo, whose journey continues into the third and final season.

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Fan adoration

The series has been called 'the best show ever' by fans. One described it as a 'must-watch', while another said: 'Extremely engrossing with fantastic performances, particularly from Daniel Sharman, and gets better each season.' Another fan called it a 'masterpiece', adding: 'Probably the best TV series of all time, so glad to have found this gem.'

One fan branded it 'captivating', while another said: 'I love period pieces, and this one does not disappoint.' A viewer commented: 'I've watched and re-watched this show, and it's engrossing.' Another called it 'absolutely superb', writing: 'This is one of the best series I've ever seen… I'm watching it all again.'

Behind the scenes

When Medici came to an end, star Daniel Sharman spoke about his role as Lorenzo, telling The Daily Express: 'Well, I think like the whole season, I think it is more centred around the family and the world that has been built by Lorenzo. And then also the holding on of power and what that looks like.'

Talking about the show's themes in season three, he added: 'And, you know, at this point, we joined [season three] a few years after the death of Giuliano. So, there's a sense that things have moved on - although obviously that tragedy still plays a really big part in the ambition of the family, and also the fear that at any point that might be lost.'

Another fan echoed the praise: 'I found myself completely absorbed by this wonderfully crafted story from the very beginning. This writing is engaging, the pacing is perfect, and the performances are genuinely outstanding.'

Medici: Masters of Florence is available to watch on Tubi.

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