When your beloved shows come to an end, it’s undoubtedly challenging to move on and find something with the same allure. The search for a worthy replacement can feel like an endless quest. But if you’re a Bridgerton fan, luck is on your side! Thanks to Netflix, your yearning for a blend of romance, intrigue, and historical drama akin to Bridgerton is over. The platform has abundant movies and shows like Bridgerton that will whisk you away.
Let’s take a detailed look at them!
Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story
In your search for shows like Bridgerton, it doesn’t get closer to the original than this spin-off! Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story takes you back into the Regency-era society of London. It delves into the life of Queen Charlotte, the wife of King George III. Forced into an unwanted betrothal with him, young Charlotte must confront the scrutinizing gaze of the monarch’s clever mother.
The miniseries unfolds with two compelling plot lines. The first is in the present of Bridgerton (1817), where a significant event occurs—the untimely demise of Princess Charlotte. This tragedy places immense pressure on the Queen, compelling her to urge her children to marry swiftly and produce another royal heir to secure the lineage.
Simultaneously, we glimpse the past, specifically 1761, when Charlotte first encounters and eventually weds King George. This plotline explores the intricacies of their marriage and the challenges they faced, including King George’s struggle with mental illness.
Downton Abbey
Downtown Abbey is a British historical drama set in the early 20th century (1912-1926). It follows the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their dedicated servants as they cope with the changing societal landscape of post-Edwardian England.
The show portrays how significant events of the time impact their lives and the British social hierarchy. These events consist of the sinking of the Titanic in the first series, and the First World War outbreak, the Spanish influenza pandemic, and the Marconi scandal in the second series. The third installment covers the Irish War of Independence and the formation of the Irish Free State.
In the fourth series, we see hints of the Teapot Dome scandal, while the fifth series involves the British general election of 1923 and the Beer Hall Putsch. In its final season, the series explores the rise of the working class during the interwar period and the eventual decline of the British aristocracy.
Reign
Historical shows on Netflix like Bridgerton can be hard to find, but Reign definitely comes close! It’s a drama centred around the life of Mary, Queen of Scotland. At fifteen years old, she journeys to France and becomes the wife of Prince Francis.
Set in the tumultuous 16th century, we witness Mary’s journey from a young queen facing political intrigue to a fierce leader grappling with power struggles and betrayal. She forms a close bond with her handmaidens during her time there, who evolve into her inseparable best friends.
Outlander
Just like Bridgerton, Outlander features romantic plotlines, intriguing drama, and strong female leads.
This time-travelling fantasy romance is set in the 18th-century Scottish Highlands and 20th-century Scotland. Claire Randall (Caitríona Balfe), a WWII nurse, unexpectedly transports back from 1945 to 1743. Her world is now filled with clans, conflicts, and passion.
Historical events, like the Jacobite risings, are happening here. However, Claire meets a charismatic Highland warrior and plunges into a grand rebellion of epic proportions in this unfamiliar era.
Versailles
Do you wish to experience the grandeur, political machinations, and scandals that Bridgerton offered? Well, Versailles includes all these and more!
In 1667, 28-year-old King Louis XIV assumes full control of France, heralding a new era. His grand vision of constructing Versailles, an opulent palace that would dazzle Europe, sets the stage for intrigue and ambition among the nobles seeking entry into its lavish halls. Little do they know that Versailles, with all its splendour, is a carefully crafted means to imprison and manipulate them. It ensures the king’s absolute power.
Within the walls of Versailles, one of the prime targets for the king’s machinations is his own younger brother, Monsieur. Meanwhile, his queen, Marie Theresa, endeavors to tame the king’s wandering eyes and win back his heart from his mistress, the sister of the English king.
Cable Girls (Las Chicas del Cable)
In the vibrant 1920s, Cable Girls takes us to Madrid, where Spain has just embraced its first national telephone company. Four young women are fortunate enough to secure jobs as switchboard operators there. For them, this workplace symbolizes far more than just a means of earning a living. It proves the progress in society, where women gradually gain greater equality with men.
Amidst the clattering of switchboards, we follow the journeys of these spirited ladies, affectionately known as “cable girls.” Their experiences go beyond their daily tasks, as they find themselves deeply attached in various ways – to their partners, families, and the memories they carry in their hearts.
Medici
Ever wondered what the mesmerizing world of the Italian Renaissance felt like? Medici, a historical drama, chronicles that beautifully. It showcases the rise of the Medici banking family, following their journey from humble merchants to one of the most influential families in Florence. Each season focuses on a pivotal moment in their legacy.
The first season takes us to 1429, when Giovanni de Medici, the family’s patriarch, passes away. With his demise, the reins of the family’s powerful bank, the richest in Europe, fall into the hands of his son, Cosimo de Medici. Cosimo struggles to maintain the Medici’s influence.
Fast forward 35 years to the second season, where the spotlight shifts to Cosimo’s grandson, Lorenzo de Medici, known as the Magnificent. This season unravels Lorenzo’s reign and the remarkable legacy he leaves behind. His artistic patronage and political prowess made him an influential figure in the Italian Renaissance.
Finally, the third season concludes Lorenzo’s story, completing the tale of his life and the Medici family’s enduring impact on history.
The Borgias
The Borgias tells the saga of a family from Spain who are considered outsiders in Renaissance-era Italy. They are determined to seize control and rise to power. Led by the cunning and ambitious patriarch, Rodrigo, the Borgias employ bribery, extortion, and torture to climb the ranks, ultimately catapulting Rodrigo to the position of pope.
Going through the treacherous political landscape, two of Rodrigo’s children become pawns in strategic alliances. They are married off to members of rival families at a tender age. Meanwhile, amidst these power struggles, two strong women, Vanozza (Rodrigo’s long-time mistress and mother of his children), and Giulia Farnese (another mistress), fiercely battle for the elder Borgia’s affection.
Wrapping Up
There you have it – the best tv shows like Bridgerton on Netflix! While the Bridgerton journey may have come to a close, these enticing shows on Netflix await your exploration. So, embrace their love, drama, and adventure right away! You’ll definitely enjoy the splendid storytelling that awaits you.
And once you’re done with these, Netflix has a lot more to offer, including movies and shows like Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Ginny & Georgia, and Wednesday Season 2. There’s also a variety of Jenna Ortega, Sandra Bullock, and Idris Elba movies on the platform. What are you waiting for? Get streaming!
