Beyond The Crown: The Varied Television Tastes of the Royal Family
While many might assume the monarchy spends its evenings watching Netflix's The Crown on repeat, the reality reveals a far more diverse and surprising range of viewing preferences. From gritty spy thrillers to beloved daytime staples, various members of the Royal Family have opened up about the programmes they genuinely enjoy.
Downton Abbey: A Late Monarch's Critical Eye
The acclaimed period drama Downton Abbey, which aired on ITV from 2010 to 2015, was reportedly a favourite of the late Queen Elizabeth II. According to The Telegraph, Her Majesty would watch with a keen eye, often pointing out historical inaccuracies. This familiarity stemmed from her knowledge of Highclere Castle, the primary filming location. Following its television conclusion, the series expanded into a film trilogy released in 2019, 2022, and culminating with The Grand Finale in 2025.
Loose Women: A Royal Connection
Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York, has become a frequent presence on the long-running ITV daytime show Loose Women, which launched in 1999. She first appeared in November 2023 to promote breast cancer screening following her own diagnosis. Ferguson returned multiple times to discuss her literary work and address major national stories. However, her association with the programme ended in October 2025 when ITV dropped her amid the Jeffrey Epstein scandal involving her ex-husband, Prince Andrew.
Strictly Come Dancing: A Royal Fanbase
Since its 2004 debut, Strictly Come Dancing has amassed a loyal following that includes King Charles and Queen Camilla as regular viewers. The Princess of Wales made a discreet visit to the studios last year with Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Professional dancer Johannes Radebe revealed that Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, expressed a strong desire to compete on the show, though her position prevents it. Queen Camilla paid a heartfelt tribute to departing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, praising their partnership as central to the programme's success.
Slow Horses: A Secret Spy Thriller Admirer
The acclaimed spy thriller Slow Horses, premiering in 2022, follows disgraced MI5 agents at Slough House, led by Jackson Lamb, played by Gary Oldman. At the 2026 Royal Television Society Awards, actor Christopher Chung disclosed that the Royal Family are secret fans. He shared anecdotes from Oldman about their viewership, specifically noting Queen Camilla and Prince William as viewers, with William having presented Oldman his knighthood.
Clarkson's Farm: A Young Prince's Favourite
Debuting in June 2021, Clarkson's Farm documents Jeremy Clarkson's agricultural endeavours at Diddly Squat Farm in Oxfordshire. Prince William revealed in an ITV News interview that his son, Prince George, is an avid fan. When asked what message to convey to farm manager Kaleb Cooper, George humorously advised: 'Tell Kaleb to mind his language.'
Poldark and Rivals: Regal Drama Enthusiasts
The historical drama Poldark, airing on BBC One from 2015 to 2019, boasts King Charles as a notable admirer. He once expressed amazement at the prolific output of author Winston Graham. Meanwhile, Queen Camilla is reportedly a fan of the raunchy comedy-drama Rivals, based on Jilly Cooper's novel and debuting on Disney+ in 2024. A palace insider told Hello! that the Queen 'adored Rivals' and had received an advance preview copy.
