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- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer/Vikings, FX/Shōgun
The 25+ Best Hulu Period Dramas, Ranked
Vote up the top period dramas and historical shows streaming on Hulu.
- 1Katheryn Winnick, Moe Dunford, Josefin Asplund
Vikings, a rip-roaring escapade through the brutal world of Norse seafarers, excels in its impeccable portrayal of legendary Ragnar Lothbrok, played by Travis Fimmel, and his bloodthirsty clan. Exploring the mysterious world of Norse mythology and Viking warfare, the series keeps us on the edge of our oars, addicted to the sweeping sagas of conquest, vengeance, and ambition.
More Vikings
- Dig Deeper...The Actual History Behind 11 Things That Happen On 'Vikings: Valhalla'
- #6 of 145 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #11 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 2Hiroyuki Sanada, Cosmo Jarvis, Anna SawaiLord Toranaga is fighting for his life when a mysterious ship is marooned in a nearby village.More Shōgun
- Dig Deeper...15 'Shogun' Characters, Ranked From Memorable To Forgettable
- #25 of 689 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #12 of 1,058 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
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- 3Elle Fanning, Nicholas Hoult, Phoebe Fox
The Great, a delightfully wicked tale of power and ambition, takes us deep into the heart of 18th-century Russia. Elle Fanning, as the audacious Catherine the Great, and Nicholas Hoult as the capricious Emperor Peter, deliver stunning performances. The show masterfully combines historical accuracy with a tantalizing dose of absurdity - and we all can't help but revel in the madness.
More The Great- #7 of 30 onNew TV Shows Of The Last Few Years With The Best Overall Acting
- #33 of 1,056 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #181 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- 4Ruth Wilson, Georgie Henley, Toby Stephens
Jane Eyre, an enduring tale of passion and resilience, breathes life anew in this emotive adaptation of Charlotte Brontë's masterpiece. Ruth Wilson captures the indomitable spirit of the orphaned governess, while Toby Stephens, as the brooding Mr. Rochester, perfectly balances his character's dark past with the promise of a love that is both ardent and stirring.
- 5Hugh Dancy, Romola Garai, Hugh Bonneville
Daniel Deronda, a compelling adaptation of George Eliot's classic novel, enthralls us with its heart-wrenching story of love and identity in the 19th-century British society. The performances of Hugh Dancy as Daniel, and Romola Garai as the tormented Gwendolen Harleth, add depth and nuance to their richly complex characters, making us vicarious witnesses to the subtle world of inner struggles.
- 6
Harlots
Samantha Morton, Lesley Manville, Jessica Brown FindlayHarlots, an unflinching portrayal of the lives of women in 18th-century London, takes us through a game of survival, passion, and intrigue. The performances of Samantha Morton, as the relentless brothel owner Margaret Wells, and Lesley Manville, as the ruthless Lydia Quigley, lay bare the harrowing underbelly of Georgian society, where morality and survival are constantly at odds.
- 7Toby Stephens, Hannah New, Luke Arnold
Black Sails, a swashbuckling prequel to Treasure Island, unfurls a canvas of devious pirates and high-stakes adventure on the high seas. Delving into the lives of Captain Flint, played by Toby Stephens, and his crew of cutthroats, we embark on a thrilling journey through a world fueled by treachery and fortune - a rough and rugged entertainment not for the faint-hearted.
More Black Sails- #12 of 145 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #149 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #117 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- 8Colin Firth, Jennifer Ehle, Crispin Bonham-Carter
Pride and Prejudice, another gem from the treasury of Jane Austen's tales, enchants us with the resolute spirit of Elizabeth Bennet and the brooding charm of Mr. Darcy, splendidly captured by Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth. This adaptation of the beloved classic, brimming with wit and ardor, immerses us in the delightful romance that the trials of Regency society fuel.
More Pride and Prejudice- Dig Deeper...The Best Books Inspired by Pride and Prejudice
- #146 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #335 of 447 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- 9
Versailles
George Blagden, Alexander Vlahos, Tygh RunyanVersailles, a sumptuous and captivating portrayal of King Louis XIV's reign, exposes the intricate power dynamics and machinations that underpin the most illustrious palace ever built. Starring George Blagden as the Sun King and Alexander Vlahos as his enigmatic brother, we tiptoe through the gilded maze of deceit, ambition, and treachery that the beautiful façade of Versailles hides.
- 10Tom Hardy, Leo Bill, Oona Chaplin
Taboo takes us into the gritty and mysterious world of 1814 London, where adventurer James Delaney, played by the enigmatic Tom Hardy, fights to reclaim his family's legacy. The series, dark and atmospheric, weaves a web of intrigue, betrayal, and violence, drawing us into an absorbing story of redemption and revenge in the heart of a rapidly transforming city.
More Taboo- #173 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #3 of 25 onThe Best New Conspiracy TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #336 of 447 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- 11Hattie Morahan, Charity Wakefield, David Morrissey
Sense and Sensibility, a classic romantic foray into Regency-era England, captures the trials and tribulations of the Dashwood sisters, portrayed exquisitely by Hattie Morahan and Charity Wakefield. The adaptation of Jane Austen's beloved novel pulls at our heartstrings while keeping us enthralled with the wit, elegance, and grand passions of two sisters navigating the complexities of love and propriety.
- #3 of 8 onThe Best TV Shows Based on Jane Austen's Books
- #57 of 220 onThe 145+ Best Mini Series List
- #3 of 14 onThe Best British Shows On Hulu, Ranked
- 12Jeremy Irons, Anthony Andrews, Diana Quick
Brideshead Revisited, a heartrending journey of love and loss in the glamorous 1920s, explores Charles Ryder's reminiscences, elevated by the impeccably nuanced performances of Jeremy Irons and Anthony Andrews. This adaptation of Evelyn Waugh's novel captures the emotional subtleties that pervade the world of Brideshead, an idyllic English estate that beckons with the promise of a bygone era.
More Brideshead Revisited- #9 of 55 onThe 45+ Best PBS Shows Of All Time, Ranked
- #93 of 139 onThe 101 Best Period Piece TV Shows
- #147 of 220 onThe 145+ Best Mini Series List
- 13Suzanne Burden, Philip Franks, Denholm Elliott
Bleak House, a sharp and haunting Dickensian tale of institutional injustice, pulls us into the interminable labyrinth of the Chancery case Jarndyce vs. Jarndyce. With Gillian Anderson as the tragic Lady Dedlock and Charles Dance as the formidable Tulkinghorn, we bear witness as the court's tangled web consumes its prey, unraveling the dark secrets and machinations at the heart of society.
- 14Olivia Hallinan, Julia Sawalha, Brendan Coyle
Lark Rise to Candleford offers a tender, intimate look into the lives and loves of English villagers in the late 19th century. Flora Thompson's adaptation does wonders for bringing to life the idiosyncrasies and dilemmas of her unforgettable characters, filling our hearts with warmth and nostalgia with every letter sent and item borrowed from Dorcas Lane's post office.
- #15 of 74 onThe 70+ Best BBC Period Dramas, Ranked
- #14 of 71 onThe 65+ Best Victorian Era Shows, Ranked
- #10 of 50 onThe 45+ Best British Shows On Hulu, Ranked
- 15Joey King, Logan Lerman, Hadas YaronA Jewish family separated at the start of World War II is determined to survive and reunite.
- #352 of 687 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #188 of 1,056 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #27 of 60 onThe Best New Historical Drama TV Series of the Last Few Years
- 16
David Copperfield
Daniel Radcliffe, Ciarán McMenamin, Emilia FoxDavid Copperfield, a poignant adaptation of Charles Dickens' masterpiece, sweeps us into the rich tapestry of a lad's journey to manhood. As Daniel Radcliffe steps into the shoes of the eponymous character, we dive deep into his tumultuous life, filled with tragedy, triumph, love, and loss, painting an enthralling picture of Victorian society and its thematic riches.
- 17Tom Hardy, Timothy Spall, Sophie Okonedo
Oliver Twist, an emotional rollercoaster of a tale set in the dark alleys of Victorian London, follows a young orphan's journey to find belonging and love. As William Miller portrays the endearingly innocent protagonist, we traverse the shadows Dickens so artfully rendered, where the line between good and evil is intriguingly blurred, and hope resonates amid despair.
- 18Antonio Banderas, Alex Rich, Clémence Poésy
Genius, an enthralling anthology series profiling the lives of extraordinary individuals, captivates us with tales of perseverance, passion, and remarkable ingenuity. Blending history, drama, and human emotion, the show has explored the mindscapes of such geniuses as Albert Einstein, Pablo Picasso, and Aretha Franklin, offering a tantalizing glimpse into their inspiring worlds.
- 19Yannick Bisson, Helene Joy, Jonny Harris
Murdoch Mysteries, an engaging detective series set in the turn-of-the-century Toronto, spins thrilling whodunit tales with the inquisitive and methodical Detective William Murdoch, played by Yannick Bisson. Combining elements of history, science, and criminal investigation, the show has captured viewers' attention for over a decade, as they follow the ever-evolving exploits of Murdoch and his colleagues.
More Murdoch Mysteries- Dig Deeper...The Best Murdoch Mysteries Episodes
- #197 of 203 onThe 150+ Most Popular Shows Right Now
- #18 of 77 onThe 70 Best Acorn TV Shows, Ranked
- 20Jeff Daniels, Tahar Rahim, Wrenn Schmidt
The Looming Tower, a gripping, suspenseful exploration of the events that led to the tragic 9/11 attacks, delves into the intricate world of counterterrorism and espionage. Starring Jeff Daniels as FBI agent John O'Neill and Peter Sarsgaard as CIA officer Martin Schmidt, the show highlights the debilitating impact of inter-agency rivalry and bureaucracy, adding urgency and tension that render it hard to look away.
- 21
Barbarians Rising
Michael EalyBarbarians Rising brings to life the remarkable stories of iconic rebels, such as Hannibal, Spartacus, and Queen Boudica, who dared defy the mighty Roman Empire. As we watch these brave freedom-fighters take on the seemingly invincible military machine, the series paints an enthralling picture of ancient conquests, unwavering courage, and the stubborn resilience of the human spirit.
- 22
Banished
Orla Brady, Ewen Bremner, MyAnna BuringBanished, a tale of punishment and grit, shines a light on the lives of British convicts sent to Australia in the late 18th century. With harrowing performances by Orla Brady and David Wenham, the series portrays the gritty reality of survival, as settlers face incredible hardships in the unforgiving Australian landscape, navigating hope, despair, and determined human resilience.
More Banished- #105 of 185 onThe 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- #114 of 139 onThe 101 Best Period Piece TV Shows
- #43 of 92 onThe 70+ Best Historical Fiction Shows
- 23Thomas Brodie-Sangster, David Thewlis, Maia MitchellIn 1850s Australia, 15 years after Oliver Twist, Jack Dawkins' past returns to haunt him.More The Artful Dodger
- #492 of 687 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #712 of 1,056 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #27 of 80 onThe Best New Period Piece TV Shows Of The Last Few Years
- 24Alessandra Roca, Marco Zingaro, Stefano Fregni
The Good Mothers, based on the true story of three courageous women who helped bring down the formidable Calabrian Mafia, offers a gripping look at the omnipotent criminal empire, as well as the extraordinary bravery it took to confront it. As we delve into the heart of darkness, the series unveils a world where loyalty, betrayal, and fear collide, leaving us both inspired and gasping for air.
More The Good Mothers- #673 of 687 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #983 of 1,056 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #477 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- 25Kumail Nanjiani, Murray Bartlett, Annaleigh Ashford
Welcome to Chippendales, a riveting account of the infamous male strip club's rise and fall, unravels a spellbinding tale of ambition, greed, and temptation. As we uncover the secrets behind the curtain of this glitzy world, we witness how a pursuit of success can lead to the deepest of falls, in a story where glamour and intrigue are just the tip of the iceberg.
- #281 of 687 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #1020 of 1,056 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #474 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- 26Lily James, Sebastian Stan, Seth Rogen
Pam & Tommy offers a poignant, dramatic, and intimate portrayal of the infamous 1990s love affair between actress Pamela Anderson, played by Lily James, and musician Tommy Lee, played by Sebastian Stan. Delving into the scandalous story surrounding the couple's stolen and leaked honeymoon tape, the show presents a fascinating exploration of fame, public perception, and the thorny underbelly of the entertainment industry.
- 27Luke Pasqualino, Tom Burke, Santiago Cabrera
The Musketeers, a swashbuckling retelling of Alexandre Dumas' classic adventure, plunges us into the adrenaline-fueled world of 17th-century Paris, where courageous heroes and devious villains cross swords and wits. Starring Luke Pasqualino, Tom Burke, Santiago Cabrera, and Howard Charles, the show delivers an action-packed concoction of camaraderie, intrigue, and indomitable spirits.
- 28Lee Jones, Katey Sagal, Stephen Moyer
The Bastard Executioner, a gritty tale set in the tumultuous landscape of 14th-century Wales, introduces us to Wilkin Brattle, portrayed by Lee Jones, a knight-turned-executioner wrestling with his past demons and newfound occupation. The series captures the brutality, politics, and bloodshed of medieval life, immersing us in a world of knights, danger, and vengeance.
- #63 of 84 onThe 70+ Best Historical Fiction Shows
- #23 of 44 onThe 40+ Best Medieval Shows, Ranked
- #23 of 48 onThe Best FX Shows On Hulu
- 29Jessica Biel, Timothy Simons, Melanie Lynskey
Candy, an adaptation of the true-crime thriller, delves into the intoxicating world of a woman accused of poisoning her husband, portrayed by Jessica Biel. As we embark on this gripping journey of seduction, lies, and betrayal, the show promises to entwine us in a spine-chilling tale that probes the darkest corners of human nature.
More Candy- Dig Deeper...The True Story Behind 'Candy' And The Killing Of Betty Gore
- #170 of 687 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #380 of 1,056 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- 30Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman, David WenhamAn English aristocrat who inherits a sprawling ranch reluctantly pacts with a stockman.More Faraway Downs
- #493 of 689 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #269 of 1,058 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #308 of 659 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- 31Malick Bauer, Max Schimmelpfennig, Carina N. Wiese
Sam: A Saxon, an upcoming historical drama, delves into the fascinating period of Anglo-Saxon Britain, following the life of its eponymous hero on the eve of the island nation's transformation. Set against the backdrop of ethereal landscapes and a tapestry of mythology, the show promises to captivate us with an immersive tale of adventure, honor, and Anglo-Saxon valiance.
More Sam: A Saxon- #664 of 687 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #112 of 138 onThe Best Black TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #473 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- 32Arthur Hughes, Sean Bean, Anthony BoyleMatthew Shardlake is sent by Thomas Cromwell to investigate the death of a commissioner.More Shardlake
- #382 of 687 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #240 of 1,056 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #77 of 80 onThe Best New Period Piece TV Shows Of The Last Few Years
- 33Laurence Fishburne, Jacki Weaver, Ed O'NeillThe story of LA's other basketball team, based on ESPN's podcast "The Sterling Affairs."More Clipped
- #214 of 689 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #224 of 1,058 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #14 of 14 onThe Best Shows On Hulu
