Netflix's German-language period drama The Empress has captivated audiences, with many declaring it superior to popular series like Bridgerton and The Crown. The show, originally titled Die Kaiserin, is loosely based on the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria and stars Devrim Lingnau in the lead role alongside Philip Froissant as Emperor Franz Joseph I.
Developed by Katharina Eyssen and co-directed by Katrin Gebbe and Florian Cossen, the series currently spans two seasons of six episodes each, with a third and final season expected in late 2026. Since its debut in September 2022, it became Netflix's second most-watched series worldwide for two consecutive weeks.
Critics and viewers alike have praised the show's production values, storytelling, and performances. One reviewer described it as 'a magnificently crafted program,' while another noted it 'does what only the very best movies and television series can do—transport you to another time and place.'
Audiences have been particularly effusive on IMDb, with one calling it 'an absolute must watch' and another stating, 'Bridgerton move over... THIS show is so full of angst and ennui you can't help but hunger for more.' A viewer even claimed, 'Forget Bridgerton. Netflix has finally found its true crown.'
The series was originally filmed in German and dubbed into 14 languages, including English, with viewers commending the quality of the dubbing. A companion novel, The Empress: A Novel by Gigi Griffis, has also been released.
