The 70+ Best Historical Fiction Shows
- 1Alexander Dreymon, Emily Cox, Timothy Innes
Dive into the tumultuous world of 9th-century England, where the kingdom of Wessex stands alone against invading Viking forces. Through the eyes of a Saxon nobleman's son captured by Vikings, witness the clash of cultures, power plays, and the birth of a unified England. It's a bloody, thrilling journey and an education in the brutal realities of life during this time.
- 2Katheryn Winnick, Moe Dunford, Josefin Asplund
As the name suggests, this gripping series follows the legendary Norse hero, Ragnar Lothbrok, as he rises from a humble farmer to become a fearless warrior and King of the Vikings. Full of battles, conquests, and rich historical detail, this saga will transport you back to the time when gods walked among men and Valhalla awaited the bravest warriors.
More Vikings
- #4 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #11 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #18 of 646 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
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NEW#48The Sympathizer- NEW#49A Gentleman in Moscow
- 3Cillian Murphy, Natasha O'Keeffe, Paul Anderson
Set against the gritty backdrop of post-WWI Birmingham, this intense crime drama revolves around the notorious Shelby gangster family. With Tommy Shelby at the helm, the family navigates a treacherous world of organized crime, political machinations, and shifting allegiances, all while wearing their signature newsboy caps with razor blades sewn in. It's a must-see for fans of raw, hard-hitting drama.
More Peaky Blinders- #4 of 110 onThe Best Drama TV Shows Airing Now
- #6 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- #22 of 449 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- 4Jonathan Rhys-Meyers, Tamzin Merchant, Joss Stone
Engross yourself in the scandalous and intriguing reign of King Henry VIII, played brilliantly by Jonathan Rhys Meyers. Follow the infamous monarch through his six marriages, tumultuous relationships, and sweeping political changes in 16th-century England. Brimming with sumptuous costumes, intriguing storylines, and a knockout cast, The Tudors is one for the history books.
More The Tudors- Dig Deeper...Archaeologists Unearthed A Treasure Trove Of Lost Artifacts In A Tudor Attic
- #22 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #137 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 5Caitriona Balfe, Sam Heughan, Sophie Skelton
Based on Diana Gabaldon's bestselling novels, this captivating series follows WWII combat nurse Claire Randall as she is mysteriously transported back to 1743 Scotland. Caught between two worlds and two men, Claire's journey through history is a breathtaking tale of passion, rebellion, and survival. You won't be able to resist getting swept up in this time-traveling romance.
More Outlander- Dig Deeper...20 Fascinating Facts From Behind The Scenes Of 'Outlander'
- #17 of 110 onThe Best Drama TV Shows Airing Now
- #16 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- 6Hugh Bonneville, Laura Carmichael, Jim Carter
Step back in time to the early 20th century and explore the grandeur, heartbreak, and scandals of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants at Downton Abbey. With sweeping landscapes, witty dialogue, and unforgettable characters, this critically acclaimed period drama promises to steal your heart.
More Downton Abbey- Dig Deeper...The Best Downton Abbey Actors
- And Deeper...The Best 'Downton Abbey' Seasons, Ranked
- #59 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 7Jamie Bell, Seth Numrich, Daniel Henshall
Discover the thrilling untold story of America's first spy ring during the Revolutionary War. Amidst the chaos of a new nation on the brink of collapse, a group of childhood friends forms an intricate network of spies that turns the tide in the fight for independence. This suspense-filled drama offers a unique perspective on the birth of the United States.
- #7 of 60 onThe 55+ Best AMC Originals, Ranked
- #232 of 298 on285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
- #5 of 17 on11 War TV Shows That Hit As Hard As A Movie
- 8Colin Firth, Jennifer Ehle, Crispin Bonham-Carter
Based on Jane Austen's timeless novel, this exquisite adaptation brings to life the world of 19th-century England and the spirited Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates love, duty, and societal expectations. Witness romance, betrayal, and biting social commentary unfold in this all-time favorite.
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- #332 of 449 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- #180 of 646 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- 9Kevin McKidd, Ray Stevenson, Polly Walker
Experience the epic rise and fall of ancient Rome through the eyes of two ordinary soldiers, Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo. As they're thrust into the heart of historical events, this gripping series highlights the political intrigue, brutal violence, and decadence that characterized the Roman Empire. It's history like you've never seen before.
More Rome- #23 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #103 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #142 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- 10Eric McIntire, Daniel Spink, Matthew Felker
Enter the brutal world of gladiators fighting for their lives in the Roman Colosseum. Following the legendary Thracian slave-turned-gladiator, Spartacus, this intense saga reveals the corruption, ambition, and bloodshed behind Rome's most infamous spectacle. Not for the faint of heart, this visceral series is a visual feast for history lovers and action enthusiasts alike.
- Dig Deeper...Why Spartacus Is More Groundbreaking And Hardcore Than Game Of Thrones
- #17 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #66 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 11Jodie Comer, Jacob Collins-Levy, Rebecca Benson
Adapted from Philippa Gregory's bestselling novel, this riveting series delves into the tumultuous world of 15th-century England during the Wars of the Roses. With political intrigue, romance, and betrayal at every turn, follow Elizabeth of York and Henry VII as they navigate love and power in a kingdom on the brink of collapse.
More The White Princess- #9 of 14 onThe Best TV Shows About Ancestry
- #19 of 182 onThe 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- #21 of 35 onThe Best Current Starz Shows, Ranked
- 12Jessica Parker Kennedy, Toby Stephens, Hannah New
Set sail with the most feared pirates of the high seas in this thrilling prequel to Robert Louis Stevenson's classic novel, Treasure Island. Through a mix of historical figures and fictional characters, venture to the lawless pirate haven of Nassau, where tensions between British rule and pirate freedom reach a boiling point. Full of adventure, danger, and drama, this swashbuckling series is a must-see for fans of pirates.
More Black Sails- #12 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #151 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #116 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- 13Jeremy Irons, François Arnaud, David Oakes
Get swept away by the decadent and scandalous lives of the Borgia family in Renaissance Italy. With subterfuge, ambition, and corruption fueling their rise to power, this riveting series chronicles the notorious Borgia dynasty through the eyes of Pope Alexander VI, played masterfully by Jeremy Irons.
More The Borgias- Dig Deeper...Murder, Inbreeding, And Destroying The Catholic Church: The Sins Of The Borgias
- #40 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #372 of 449 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- 14
Versailles
George Blagden, Alexander Vlahos, Tygh RunyanStep inside the opulent world of Louis XIV's grand palace, Versailles, as the series chronicles the turbulent beginnings of his reign. From the construction of the palace to the personal lives of its courtiers, this visually stunning drama offers an intimate look at one of history's most extravagant monarchs.
- 15Lorenzo Richelmy, Michelle Yeoh, Benedict Wong
Follow the legendary explorer, Marco Polo, as he finds himself in the center of the perilous Mongol Empire, navigating a world of wealth, power, and betrayal. Based on the Italian adventurer's real-life journey, this epic series captures the collision of East and West in the 13th century.
More Marco Polo- #333 of 449 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- #7 of 10 onCurrent TV Shows That Are Just Game of Thrones Ripoffs
- #31 of 182 onThe 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- 16Adelaide Kane, Megan Follows, Rachel Skarsten
Journey back to 16th-century France and witness the early days of Mary, Queen of Scots, as she contends with political alliances, religious conflict, and the intrigues of her court. This highly stylized series brings a fresh spin to historical drama, making it both entertaining and addictive.
More Reign- #225 of 449 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- #187 of 356 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #279 of 646 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- 17Jenny Agutter, Annabelle Apsion, Linda Bassett
Set in 1950s London, this heartwarming period drama brings to life the nuns and midwives working tirelessly to care for the women and children of the impoverished Poplar district. With laughter, tears, and beautifully crafted characters, this beloved show is a testament to the power of compassion.
More Call The Midwife- #13 of 253 onThe 250+ Best BBC One Shows, Ranked
- #5 of 76 onThe 70 Best Current Shows About Women
- #5 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- 18Dustin Hoffman, Guido Caprino, Giorgio Caputo
Immerse yourself in the world of the powerful Medici family during the Italian Renaissance. Witness the rise and fall of the dynasty as they navigate political intrigue, patronage of the arts, and ruthless ambition. With stunning visuals and compelling characters, this series brings to life the beauty and complexity of one of history's most fascinating periods.
More Medici- #14 of 14 onThe Best TV Shows About Ancestry
- #14 of 182 onThe 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- #6 of 83 onThe 85+ Best Historical Shows On Netflix, Ranked
- 19Charlotte Hope, Richard Pepper, Harriet Walter
Explore the tumultuous early years of Catherine of Aragon, the young Spanish princess who would become Queen of England as Henry VIII's first wife. From navigating the treacherous waters of English court politics to struggling with her faith and destiny, this captivating drama offers an intimate look at a queen whose story is often overshadowed by her infamous husband.
More The Spanish Princess- #73 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #30 of 182 onThe 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- #3 of 35 onThe Best Current Starz Shows, Ranked
- 20Robin Ellis, Angharad Rees, Jill Townsend
Embark on a sweeping 18th-century Cornish adventure with this enthralling series based on Winston Graham's novels. Follow Ross Poldark as he returns from the American Revolutionary War to find his home and love life in disarray, and watch as the irresistible hero fights to rebuild his life and community.
More Poldark- #269 of 298 on285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
- #22 of 182 onThe 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- #104 of 138 onThe 101 Best Period Piece TV Shows
- 21Paul Giamatti, Laura Linney, Tom Wilkinson
Witness the turbulent early years of the United States through the eyes of Founding Father and second president, John Adams. In this powerful and critically acclaimed miniseries, experience the birth of a nation, with all its trials and triumphs, as Adams navigates diplomacy, politics, and family life.
More John Adams- #28 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #283 of 449 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- #96 of 646 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- 22Ian McShane, Matthew Macfadyen, Eddie Redmayne
Based on Ken Follett's bestselling novel, this epic miniseries tells the story of a small English town's struggle to build a new cathedral amidst war, religious strife, and political turmoil during the 12th century. Full of mystery, romance, and action, this gripping show is a medieval masterpiece.
- #16 of 70 onThe Best Miniseries Of The 2010s
- #29 of 212 onThe 145+ Best Mini Series List
- #3 of 45 onThe 40+ Best Medieval Shows, Ranked
- 23Hiroyuki Sanada, Cosmo Jarvis, Anna SawaiLord Toranaga is fighting for his life when a mysterious ship is marooned in a nearby village.More Shōgun
- #27 of 677 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #75 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #91 of 1,048 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- 24Keri Russell, Matthew Rhys, Noah Emmerich
As the Cold War heats up, Russian spies posing as a typical American family next door juggle their undercover lives with raising their children and maintaining a suburban façade. Gripping and suspenseful, this critically acclaimed series delves into the intricate lives of espionage agents during one of history's tensest eras.
More The Americans- Dig Deeper...The Best Episodes of The Americans
- #147 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #55 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- 25Laurence Rupp, Attila C. Arpa, David Schütter
Witness the epic clash between the mighty Roman Empire and the fearsome Germanic tribes they sought to conquer in the first century AD. This action-packed series traces the lives of three childhood friends caught in the middle of a brutal conflict, as they struggle to decide where their loyalties truly lie.
More Barbarians- #393 of 648 onThe 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
- #290 of 1,048 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #26 of 44 onThe Best Current Period Piece TV Shows Airing Now
- 26Landon Liboiron, Jason Momoa, Alun Armstrong
Venture into the wild, lawless world of 18th-century fur trading in North America, as Jason Momoa stars as a half-Irish, half-Native American outlaw battling ruthless traders and the harsh wilderness. This gritty, action-packed series sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of history while delivering gripping storytelling and unforgettable characters.
- 27Timothy Olyphant, Ian McShane, Molly Parker
Journey to the lawless outpost of Deadwood, South Dakota, during the American frontier's late-1800s gold rush. Centered around the town's seedy inhabitants, including notorious gunslinger Wild Bill Hickok and foul-mouthed saloon owner Al Swearengen, this gritty series presents a no-holds-barred look at life in the Old West.
More Deadwood- Dig Deeper...The Real History Of 'Deadwood'
- #21 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #41 of 85 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- 28Nicola Coughlan, Luke Newton, Claudia Jessie
Indulge in the scandalous and romantic world of Regency-era England, as seen through the eyes of the prestigious Bridgerton family. With sumptuous costumes, witty dialogue, and steamy love stories, this addictive series is a delightful escape into the past.
- 29LeVar Burton, Ed Asner, Georg Stanford Brown
Based on Alex Haley's landmark novel, this powerful miniseries follows the lives of several generations of an African American family, beginning with their ancestors' capture in Africa and continuing through their harrowing journey to the United States and beyond. This groundbreaking series offers an unflinching portrayal of American history, making it essential viewing for anyone interested in understanding the past.
More Roots- #83 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #48 of 646 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #36 of 95 onThe Best ABC Shows of All Time
- 30Anson Mount, Colm Meaney, Phil Burke
Ride alongside the individuals responsible for the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad in the post-Civil War era. With greed, corruption, and ambition fueling the project and its workers, this intense drama delivers an unflinching look at a pivotal moment in American history.
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- #245 of 449 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- #5 of 60 onThe 55+ Best AMC Originals, Ranked
