Five Masterpiece Period Dramas to Stream If You Love Bridgerton
With Bridgerton finally back on Netflix for its fourth season, fans are immersed in the romantic tale of Benedict Bridgerton and Sophie Baek. This Shonda Rhimes production, adapted from Julia Quinn's novels, debuted in 2020, chronicling the love story of Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset. Subsequent seasons followed Anthony Bridgerton's marriage to Kate Sharma and Colin Bridgerton's fiery romance with Penelope Featherington. Now, as viewers binge the first part of season four and await the second instalment, here are five more period dramas to enjoy during the wait.
1. The Buccaneers
The Buccaneers premiered on Apple TV+ in 2023, based on Edith Wharton's unfinished novel. Set in the 1870s Gilded Age, it follows five wealthy American women navigating London high society as they seek husbands and titles. They grapple with cultural clashes, friendships, and romances during debutante season, enhanced by Taylor Swift's music, steamy scenes, and stunning corseted costumes. This series is a perfect pick for period drama enthusiasts.
2. Miss Austen
This mini-series reimagines the life of Jane Austen's sister, Cassandra, portrayed by Keeley Hawes. It delves into Cassandra's past as she strives to protect her sister's legacy through flashbacks. Airing just months ago, the four-part drama won over fans, earning praise as the best of the BBC for its heartfelt storytelling and historical depth.
3. A Thousand Blows
Created by Steven Knight, A Thousand Blows debuted in February last year and quickly gained a loyal following, with its second season recently released on Disney+. This British historical drama centers on the Forty Elephants, an all-female crime syndicate in 1880s London's East End. Led by Mary Carr, played by Erin Doherty, the gang engages in shoplifting and trickery before clashing with the bare-knuckle boxing world overseen by Henry 'Sugar' Goodson, portrayed by Stephen Graham. Simultaneously, immigrants Hezekiah Moscow and Alec Munroe fight for survival in London's underworld after moving from Jamaica with dreams of becoming lion tamers.
4. The Forsytes
Adapted from John Galsworthy's beloved book series, The Forsytes returns with a new adaptation featuring stars like Millie Gibson, Joshua Orpin, and Eleanor Tomlinson. Set in the late Victorian era, this steamy drama explores familial tensions and marriages unraveling as long-held secrets emerge. The six-part series, available on Channel 5, highlights the clash between tradition-bound older Forsytes and rebellious younger members challenging family expectations.
5. Downton Abbey
The cherished period drama Downton Abbey first aired in 2010, spanning six seasons and three films with a cast including Elizabeth McGovern and Dame Maggie Smith. The recent film, Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, paid tribute to the late Harry Potter legend and is believed to be the final installment. The series chronicles the lives and loves of the Crawley family and their servants, set against the backdrop of world wars and societal changes.
These five period dramas offer a rich escape for Bridgerton fans, blending romance, drama, and historical intrigue to fill the gap until the next season arrives.
