Got a Fancy for Period Dramas? Check Out These Shows Like The Gilded Age!
Hey there, history buffs and drama lovers! If you're here, it's probably because you've devoured every episode of The Gilded Age and are now craving more shows that'll transport you back to the late 19th century. Well, you're in luck! We've rounded up some fantastic series that'll satisfy your appetite for opulence, intrigue, and stunning costumes. So, grab your best tea set and let's dive in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and shows like the gilded age.
Why We Love Shows Like The Gilded Age
Before we dive into our list, let's talk about what makes The Gilded Age so darn addictive. Created by Julian Fellowes, the mastermind behind Downton Abbey, this HBO series offers a delightful blend of:
- Glamorous costumes: If you live for those sumptuous gowns and sharp suits, you're in for a treat! - Feuding families: Who doesn't love a good old-fashioned power struggle? - Social commentary: It's not just about the pretty dresses; The Gilded Age explores themes like class struggle, women's rights, and immigration. - Star-studded cast: From Christine Baranski to Cynthia Nixon, the acting is top-notch.
Now that we've established what we're looking for let's explore some amazing shows like The Gilded Age!
1. Downton Abbey (2010-2015)
We couldn't create a list like this without mentioning the granddaddy of them all – Downton Abbey. Set in the early 20th century, this British period drama follows the aristocratic Crawley family and their domestic servants as they navigate the sweeping changes brought about by World War I and the dawn of the Roaring Twenties.
With its lavish costumes, intricate plotlines, and a cast of hundreds, Downton Abbey is the ultimate period drama. And the best part? The story continues in the recent feature films, so you can keep up with your favorite characters long after the series ends.
2. Victoria (2016-2019)
If you're craving a British royal drama with a strong, intelligent female lead, look no further than Victoria. This Masterpiece Theatre series tells the story of Queen Victoria's early reign, from her ascension to the throne at the age of 18 to her courtship and marriage to Prince Albert.
Jenna Coleman delivers a powerful performance as the young queen, balancing the demands of her royal duties with her desire for love and family. And with its stunning costumes, lavish sets, and compelling historical context, Victoria is a must-watch for fans of shows like The Gilded Age.
3. Bridgerton (2020-present)
Alright, so Bridgerton is set a bit later than The Gilded Age, but hear us out – this Netflix series has all the hallmarks of a fantastic period drama, with a few twists that make it totally unique.
Based on Julia Quinn's bestselling novels, Bridgerton follows the high-society shenanigans of the Bridgerton family in Regency-era England. With its stunning costumes, lavish sets, and a diverse cast, this series is a breath of fresh air in the period drama genre. And let's not forget the steamy romance and delicious drama – it's like Gossip Girl meets Downton Abbey!
4. Peaky Blinders (2013-2022)
Now, if you're looking for something a bit grittier and more criminal-minded, give Peaky Blinders a try. Set in post-World War I Birmingham, England, this British period crime drama follows the exploits of the Shelby family, a notorious gang known for their sharp suits and peaky blinders – caps with built-in blade-like peaks.
With its dark themes, complex characters, and stunning performances (hello, Cillian Murphy!), Peaky Blinders is a far cry from the stuffy aristocratic dramas you might be used to. But if you're looking for something with a bit more edge, this show is a must-watch.
5. The Great (2020-present)
If you're in the mood for something a bit more irreverent and hilarious, check out The Great. This Hulu series is a satirical, comedic drama about the rise of Catherine the Great, the empress of Russia in the 18th century.
Starring Elle Fanning as the young Catherine, this show is like The Favourite meets Veep – it's witty, provocative, and absolutely hilarious. And with its stunning costumes and production design, The Great is a visual feast that's sure to satisfy fans of shows like The Gilded Age.
6. The Crown (2016-present)
Last but not least, we have The Crown, another Netflix series that's perfect for fans of royal drama and intrigue. This award-winning series follows the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, from her ascension to the throne in the 1950s to the present day.
With its stunning performances, lavish costumes, and compelling historical context, The Crown is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good dose of royal drama. And with each season focusing on a different decade, you'll get to see the queen and her family evolve and change over time.
Honorable Mentions: More Shows Like The Gilded Age
If you've devoured all the shows on our list and are still craving more, here are a few honorable mentions that you might enjoy:
- Poldark (2015-2019): A British period drama set in the late 18th century, following the life of Captain Ross Poldark as he returns home after the American Revolutionary War to find his world in ruins. - Outlander (2014-present): A time-traveling romance series based on Diana Gabaldon's bestselling novels, following a World War II nurse who finds herself transported back to 18th-century Scotland. - The Spanish Princess (2020): A historical drama about Catherine of Aragon, the first wife of England's King Henry VIII. This Starz series offers a unique perspective on the Tudor era and the political intrigue that surrounded Catherine's marriage. - The Durrells (2016-2019): A charming British period drama based on Gerald Durrell's autobiographical trilogy, following the Durrell family as they move from England to the Greek island of Corfu in the 1930s.
The Final Word: Why We Love Period Dramas
So there you have it – our list of fantastic shows like The Gilded Age that are sure to satisfy your craving for opulence, drama, and historical intrigue. Whether you're in the mood for something light and fluffy or dark and gritty, there's something on this list for everyone.
At the end of the day, there's just something about period dramas that we can't resist. Maybe it's the stunning costumes, the lavish sets, or the chance to escape into a different time and place. Whatever it is, we hope you'll find something on this list that speaks to you and keeps you entertained for hours on end.
Happy binge-watching, history buffs!
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