Now if you are like me, over winter break you binge-watched “Bridgerton”: the Netflix show based on the book series by Julia Quinn. “Bridgerton” takes place during the Regency era in England and has the glamor, sparkle and romance that every period piece fan loves to see. While “Bridgerton” has many elements that seem circumstantial to the early 1800s, it also brings some modern elements that anyone today can relate to.
Now, after binging this show you may feel at a loss for what to watch next. Well, I have a list of shows that you might be interested in if you are in a post-“Bridgerton” funk. Here are five shows that you can enjoy while waiting for another season of “Bridgerton”:
1. “The Great” (Hulu)
While “The Great” is based on historical events, this show coins itself as “an occasionally true story.” Elle Fanning plays the young Empress of Russia, Catherine (also known as Catherine the Great), as she manages the trials of court life, while also dealing with trying to secretly take over the country from her dimwitted husband, Peter (Nicholas Hoult). This show has beautiful costumes and sets to go along with the dramatic and hilarious events of the Russian Royal Court. This might not be a traditional period piece, but it will keep you very entertained.
2. “Dickinson” (Apple TV)
Centered on the real-life writer, Emily Dickinson (Hailee Steinfeld), this period piece has a surprisingly modern voice to it. Dickinson is definitely “not like other girls” with her rebellious nature and love of poetry during a time when women were expected only to get married and have children. This is not just a good period piece, but a good comedy. Dickinson’s humor is something that many women today may relate to, and her fight to have her voice heard is very relatable.
3. “Downton Abbey” (Prime Video – Amazon)
Probably the most well-known name on this list, “Downton Abbey” has everything a period piece fan could ask for. It has beautiful costumes, breathtaking sets, and great drama. The series begins right after the sinking of the Titanic and spans several decades of the early 1900s. “Downton Abbey” shows the realities of being a part of the British upper class, and it even gives the viewers a taste of royal life. This show is so addictive that even Queen Elizabeth reportedly tuned into it when it aired.
4. “Sanditon” (PBS Masterpiece)
If you want a classic Jane Austen show, “Sanditon” is for you. This show is based on an unfinished novel by Jane Austen and has all the elements that make a great show. “Sanditon” follows the young Charlotte Heywood (Rose Willams) as she travels from her country home to a seaside village and meets its inhabitants. From dealing with siblings trying to steal a fortune, to meeting the handsome Sidney Parker (Theo James), Charlotte experiences much excitement during her stay.
5. “Harlots” (Hulu)
If you are looking for a more edgy period drama, “Harlots” is a good choice. This show centers around the young women of the brothels of 18th-century London as they try to survive without titles or wealth. These women, led by Margaret Wells (Samantha Morton), are very independent and savvy despite their circumstances. While considered low in society, they do not let anything come between them and getting what they want. This show definitely allows us to see this time period from a different perspective.