Fans of sumptuous historical television have a major treat in store, as all four series of the acclaimed drama 'The Tudors' are now available to stream completely free of charge on Channel 4. The show, which originally aired between 2007 and 2010, offers a dramatic and opulent deep dive into the scandalous court of King Henry VIII.
A Lavish Dive into Royal Scandal and Intrigue
The series stars Jonathan Rhys Meyers as the charismatic and volatile King Henry VIII, charting his tumultuous reign from its early years. The narrative is heavily focused on the monarch's infamous quest for a male heir, which led to his six marriages and the seismic religious upheaval of the English Reformation. The drama begins in 1518, with a young king facing political pressures and personal frustrations.
A key storyline follows Henry's passionate and ultimately doomed relationship with Anne Boleyn, played by Natalie Dormer before her rise to fame in 'Game of Thrones'. Her portrayal of the ambitious queen-in-waiting is widely celebrated. The ensemble cast also features Henry Cavill as Charles Brandon, the Duke of Suffolk, who serves as the king's loyal friend and confidant throughout all four series.
Other notable cast members include Annabelle Wallis as Jane Seymour (Henry's third wife) and Sam Neill as the powerful Cardinal Wolsey. The series concludes with the king's death, having dramatised approximately 40 years of gripping history.
Critical Acclaim and Lasting Legacy
Upon its release, 'The Tudors' was praised for its stunning production values, elaborate costumes, and compelling performances. It earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Drama Series in 2007, and Jonathan Rhys Meyers received two Best Actor nominations. The show also won Creative Arts Emmy Awards for Outstanding Costumes and Outstanding Main Title Theme Music.
While some historians noted its creative liberties, critics were captivated. The New York Post hailed it as "the best series since 'The Sopranos'", and The New York Times compared the courtly antics to "'Ocean's Eleven' in ruffs and doublets". Over a decade later, fans on forums like Reddit's Period Drama community often describe it as a "guilty pleasure" and a "mid-2000s masterpiece" that has aged remarkably well, crediting it with paving the way for later historical and fantasy epics.
Where and How to Stream
Viewers in the UK can now access the complete series on Channel 4's streaming platform at no cost. This provides a perfect opportunity for newcomers to discover the drama or for long-time fans to revisit the intrigue, romance, and political machinations of the Tudor court. With its binge-ready availability, the saga of Henry VIII's reign is more accessible than ever.
