If you are a royal family fan, a history aficionado, or simply loved binge-watching the hugely successful Netflix drama The Crown, this is the programme you need to add to your watchlist immediately.
A Royal Drama Set in the 19th Century
While The Crown chronicled the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II, this series ventures further back in time, centring on Queen Victoria and her 63-year reign. It predominantly covers her life and political duties during the period spanning the 1830s through to the 1850s.
With Jenna Coleman taking on the role of the monarch herself, the series guides you through the turbulent early stages of her time as ruler of the United Kingdom.
Critical Acclaim from Viewers
A viewer shared on Rotten Tomatoes: "Just like The Crown covers Queen Elizabeth II's life throughout her reign, this series covers Queen Victoria's. It almost looks like they are twin series full of drama, romance, politics and good historical accuracy."
They added: "The first season covers the early life of Queen Victoria, from her ascension to the throne at the tender age of 18 to her courtship and marriage to Prince Albert."
The programme opens with Victoria's dramatic rise to the throne at just 18, with the first season exploring a dramatised portrayal of her early life. This encompasses her alleged affection for Lord Melbourne and her tempestuous marriage to Prince Albert.
Balancing Roles as Monarch and Mother
As the series progresses, it also begins to explore the arrival of her firstborn child and successor to the throne, Princess Victoria. We witness the monarch struggling to strike a balance between her roles as wife, mother and head of state, as she gradually transforms into the legendary figure we remember today.
Another viewer said: "It's Masterpiece Theatre, not a Michael Bay movie, so with those expectations, it's really a good show. Jenna Coleman does an excellent job portraying the Queen; as for the rest of the cast - excellent. Beautiful sets and scenes are really well done."
Historical Events and Cast
Not only does the plot keep audiences entertained as they watch the queen's personal struggles unfold, it also highlights the significance of several major historical events. For instance, the catastrophe of the Anglo-Afghan War is addressed, alongside coverage of the devastating famine that swept through Ireland.
Also featuring in the series, which recounts events of the era, are Tom Hughes as Prince Albert and Rufus Sewell as Lord Melbourne. Joining them on screen in Victoria are Lily Travers as Sophie, Kate Fleetwood as Princess Feodora and Nell Hudson as Nancy Skerrett.
All episodes of Victoria are available to stream across various platforms, including ITVX, Netflix and Disney+.
