TV

This 100% Rated Period Drama Shines Light on British Royalty’s Dirtiest Secrets

This 100% Rated Period Drama Shines Light on British Royalty’s Dirtiest Secrets
Image credit: Starz

You'll never look at history books the same way again. Despite the fact that science now knows more details about humanity's past than ever before, there are still many gaps in most

You'll never look at history books the same way again.

Despite the fact that science now knows more details about humanity's past than ever before, there are still many gaps in most people's knowledge of history. School lessons that focus strictly on geopolitical conflicts and leave out the details that make history fun, often lead to boredom and turn many away from the subject forever.

However, humans have remained unchanged for many centuries. Moral and ethical principles may have changed, but the thoughts, feelings and emotions were the driving force behind the decisions of even the most royal individuals.

The new historical drama Mary & George lifts the veil of secrecy from the life of King James VI and I, revealing details that too often remain untold. It's no surprise that the drama has already earned a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and shows no signs of slowing down.

What Mary & George Is About?

This 100% Rated Period Drama Shines Light on British Royalty’s Dirtiest Secrets - image 1

Based on Benjamin Woolley's non-fiction book The King's Assassin, the show focuses on the life of George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham, and his mother Mary, who was the mastermind behind his rise to power. This is the story of love, lust and countless intrigues that allowed George to rule the kingdom through his intimate relationship with the King.

The heat of the series is enhanced by the brilliant chemistry of the cast. With Julianne Moore as Mary Villiers, Countess of Buckingham, Nicholas Galitzine as her son George, and Tony Curran as King James VI and I, each episode brings viewers the full range of emotions.

This 100% Rated Period Drama Shines Light on British Royalty’s Dirtiest Secrets - image 2

Mary & George's gradual takeover of the court keeps everyone on the edge of their seats, while the King's personality demands nothing but sympathy. That's how the story differs from anything you've seen about British royalty before, instead of focusing on the persona of a ruler, the show explores the real power holders within the royal court of the time.

Whether you know nothing about British history or have an obsession with it, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how much the show has to offer. It doesn't shy away from anything that some might consider inappropriate, and it offers the raw look that is sometimes missing from period pieces.

The show premiered in the UK on March 5. However, American viewers will have to wait to see it on Starz on April 5. Mark your calendars and tune in to see British royalty at its most vulnerable on Mary & George.