Sky's historical drama 'Mary & George' has been praised as a 'worthy sequel to The Tudors' by critics and viewers alike. Set in 1612, the seven-part limited series offers a raunchy and exaggerated account of two prominent aristocrats who climbed the ranks of 17th-century British nobility.
Starring Nicholas Galitzine as George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham, and Julianne Moore as his mother Mary Villiers, Countess of Buckingham, the series explores George's complex relationship with King James VI and I, played by Tony Curran. Historical accounts suggest George was the king's lover and 'favourite', rising through the nobility as a result.
Created by D. C. Moore and inspired by Benjamin Woolley's book 'The King's Assassin', 'Mary & George' delves into the intricate web of sex, politics, and intrigue that propelled the mother-son duo to the top before a cataclysmic downfall. The series has received a five-star review from The Guardian and a 94% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Viewers have praised the series for its 'masterful storytelling' and 'superb performances', with particular acclaim for Moore's 'diabolical' portrayal. However, they warn of explicit scenes and colourful language, noting that the bawdy script captures the mood of James's court. All seven episodes are available to stream on Sky in the UK.
