Craving More Regency-Era Drama? Check Out These Shows Like Bridgerton!
Hello there, Bridgerton fans! If you've devoured all eight episodes of Netflix's hit series and are yearning for more Regency-era drama, you've come to the right place. We've rounded up some fantastic shows that'll satisfy your craving for opulent ballrooms, scandalous secrets, and swoon-worthy romance. So, grab your fan, pour yourself a cup of tea, and let's dive into these amazing alternatives to Bridgerton! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and more shows like bridgerton.
Period Dramas Fit for a Duke
Pride and Prejudice (1995 & 2005)
You can't talk about Regency-era dramas without mentioning Jane Austen's timeless classic, Pride and Prejudice. While not as lavish as Bridgerton, both the 1995 BBC miniseries and the 2005 film adaptation capture the wit, humor, and social commentary that Austen is renowned for. Follow Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates love, societal expectations, and her own pride in this must-watch period piece.
1995 BBC Miniseries
- Starring: Jennifer Ehle (Elizabeth Bennet), Colin Firth (Mr. Darcy) - Seasons: 6 episodes (4 hours 30 minutes) - Streaming: BBC iPlayer (UK), Amazon Prime Video (US)
2005 Film
- Starring: Keira Knightley (Elizabeth Bennet), Matthew Macfadyen (Mr. Darcy) - Runtime: 2 hours 45 minutes - Streaming: Hulu (US), Now TV (UK)
Persuasion (2007 & 2022)
Another Austen adaptation, Persuasion tells the story of Anne Elliot, a woman who gets a second chance at love eight years after rejecting the man she truly loved. While the 2007 BBC miniseries is a faithful adaptation, the 2022 film version offers a fresh take with stunning visuals and a fantastic cast.
2007 BBC Miniseries
- Starring: Sally Hawkins (Anne Elliot), Rupert Penry-Jones (Captain Wentworth) - Seasons: 2 episodes (2 hours 30 minutes) - Streaming: BBC iPlayer (UK), Amazon Prime Video (US)
2022 Film
- Starring: Dakota Johnson (Anne Elliot), Cosmo Jarvis (Captain Wentworth) - Runtime: 1 hour 30 minutes - Streaming: Netflix
Emma (1996 & 2020)
Based on Austen's novel of the same name, Emma follows the wealthy and beautiful Emma Woodhouse as she meddles in the love lives of those around her. Both the 1996 BBC miniseries and the 2020 film are charming adaptations that showcase Austen's wit and social commentary.
1996 BBC Miniseries
- Starring: Kate Beckinsale (Emma Woodhouse), Mark Strong (Mr. Knightley) - Seasons: 4 episodes (4 hours) - Streaming: BBC iPlayer (UK), Amazon Prime Video (US)
2020 Film
- Starring: Anya Taylor-Joy (Emma Woodhouse), Johnny Flynn (Mr. Knightley) - Runtime: 2 hours 4 minutes - Streaming: Hulu (US), Netflix (UK)
Gossip Girl Meets the Ton
Gentleman Jack (2019 - present)
Created by Sally Wainwright and starring Suranne Jones, Gentleman Jack is a captivating period drama based on the true story of Regency-era landowner and industrialist Anne Lister. With its unique blend of history, romance, and humor, this show offers a fresh take on the period drama genre and is perfect for fans of Bridgerton looking for something a little different.
- Starring: Suranne Jones (Anne Lister), Sophie Rundle (Ann Walker) - Seasons: 2 (12 episodes) - Streaming: HBO Max (US), BBC iPlayer (UK)
The Great (2020 - present)
While set in 18th-century Russia rather than Regency-era England, The Great is a satirical, anachronistic drama that shares Bridgerton's wit, humor, and lavish production design. Follow the rise of Catherine the Great, as she navigates court intrigue, power struggles, and a tumultuous marriage in this irreverent and entertaining series.
- Starring: Elle Fanning (Young Catherine), Nicholas Hoult (Peter) - Seasons: 2 (16 episodes) - Streaming: Hulu (US), Starzplay (UK)
Historical Dramas with a Side of Scandal
The Spanish Princess (2019)
This Starz miniseries tells the story of Catherine of Aragon, the first wife of England's King Henry VIII. With its lavish production design, political intrigue, and romantic entanglements, The Spanish Princess offers a fascinating glimpse into Tudor-era history and is perfect for fans of Bridgerton's royal drama.
- Starring: Charlotte Hope (Catherine of Aragon), Aaron Cobham (Henry VIII) - Seasons: 1 (8 episodes) - Streaming: Starz (US), Starzplay (UK)
Reign (2013 - 2017)
Set in 16th-century France, Reign follows the early years of Mary, Queen of Scots, as she navigates court intrigue, political alliances, and forbidden love. With its anachronistic dialogue, lavish costumes, and soapy storylines, this historical drama is perfect for fans of Bridgerton's over-the-top romance and scandal.
- Starring: Adelaide Kane (Mary, Queen of Scots), Toby Regbo (Francis II) - Seasons: 4 (78 episodes) - Streaming: Netflix, The CW (US)
Regency-Era Romances
Sanditon (2019 - present)
Based on an unfinished novel by Jane Austen, Sanditon follows the spirited and impulsive Charlotte Heywood as she navigates society, love, and family in the seaside resort town of Sanditon. With its witty dialogue, charming characters, and stunning coastal setting, this period drama is a must-watch for fans of Austen and Bridgerton.
- Starring: Rose Williams (Charlotte Heywood), Theo James (Mr. Sidney Parker) - Seasons: 2 (12 episodes) - Streaming: ITV Hub (UK), Masterpiece on PBS (US)
Becoming Jane (2007)
This biographical romantic drama tells the story of a young Jane Austen as she navigates her own romantic entanglements and begins to write the stories that will eventually make her famous. With its witty dialogue, charming performances, and beautiful setting, Becoming Jane is a must-watch for Austen and Bridgerton fans alike.
- Starring: Anne Hathaway (Jane Austen), James McAvoy (Tom Lefroy) - Runtime: 2 hours 2 minutes - Streaming: Amazon Prime Video, Hulu (US), Now TV (UK)
So there you have it, Bridgerton fans! Whether you're in the mood for more period drama, romance, or Regency-era scandal, these amazing shows are sure to satisfy your craving. Happy streaming!