Nine Must-Watch Shows for Bridgerton Fans: TV Expert's Top Picks
If you have just finished the fourth season of Bridgerton on Netflix, you might be searching for a new series to dive into. Many fans are eager to stay within the historical drama genre, and one TV enthusiast has compiled a list of nine shows that capture a similar essence to the hit Netflix production.
TV Fanatic Eleanor's Recommendations
Eleanor, known online as 'ghoulgirlelle' with over 348,100 followers on TikTok, regularly shares film and television recommendations. In a recent post, she highlighted nine series perfect for Bridgerton lovers, offering a mix of romance, intrigue, and period settings.
The Great
The Great is a dark, satirical drama set in the 18th century, available on Netflix. It follows young Catherine the Great, portrayed by Elle Fanning, as she arrives in Russia to marry Peter III. The series delves into her struggles against dogmatic beliefs and customs, forcing her to choose between personal happiness and Russia's future. With three seasons concluding in 2023, it boasts an impressive 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
The Empress
The Empress is a German historical drama based on the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. It follows rebellious Elisabeth von Wittelsbach as she navigates tensions and intrigue at the Viennese court, becoming a beloved figure. The two-season series has an 83% score on Rotten Tomatoes and streams on Netflix.
Reign
Reign is a four-season historical romantic drama focusing on Mary, Queen of Scots. It explores her journey through the dangerous French court, love, and political intrigue as she secures an engagement to Prince Francis. The show holds an average 86% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is available on Netflix.
Sanditon
Sanditon is a British historical drama adapted from an unfinished Jane Austen novel by screenwriter Andrew Davies. It follows Charlotte Heywood, a spirited woman moving to a fishing village turned seaside resort. Praised by fans, the three seasons have an 85% Rotten Tomatoes score and stream on Amazon Prime Video and ITVX.
The Gilded Age
The Gilded Age, created by Julian Fellowes for HBO, is set in 1880s New York City. It explores conflicts between new money, old money, the African-American upper class, and domestic workers. Available on Sky Atlantic and NOW, it offers a rich portrayal of societal dynamics.
The Artful Dodger
The Artful Dodger is an Australian historical heist drama on Disney+, set in 1850s Australia after Oliver Twist. It follows Jack Dawkins, played by Thomas Brodie-Sangster, as his criminal past resurfaces while he works as a surgeon. Season one aired in 2023, with season two premiering in February 2026.
The Buccaneers
The Buccaneers, based on an unfinished Edith Wharton novel, follows five wealthy American women in 1870s London. They pursue love and status while clashing with aristocratic British culture. With two series released and a third renewed, it streams on Apple TV.
Harlots
Harlots offers a different perspective on 18th-century London, focusing on brothel owner Margaret Wells as she expands her business in Soho, leading to conflicts with a rival madame. The three-season series has a near-perfect 97% Rotten Tomatoes score and is available on Netflix and Channel 4.
Dickinson
Dickinson is an American comedy-drama about poet Emily Dickinson, played by Hailee Steinfeld, exploring societal constraints in the 19th century. All three seasons stream on Apple TV, providing a coming-of-age story with historical flair.
These nine shows provide a diverse range of historical dramas to enjoy, ensuring Bridgerton fans have plenty to watch while awaiting the next season.
