The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (2024)

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (1)

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (2)

By Shawn S. Lealos & Tom Russell

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The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (6)

There's been an upswing in shows centered around the Middle Ages— or are at least influenced by the culture and events during this significant era, and this has resulted in some of the best medieval TV shows on the small screen. There is more to these TV and streaming shows than knights in shining armor on horseback or kings and queens battling rebellious commoners or Vikings. These shows bring a piece of history to the small screen with all the drama and action a viewer could want to enjoy the era and learn more about the past.

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It's not surprising that viewers would be intrigued by such efforts, whether fantasy-based, historical fiction, or an accurate portrayal of actual events. After all, this turbulent, dark, and often violent period of human history makes for some gripping settings and engrossing narratives. Game of Thrones brought a true fantasy-level effort to the masses but others have proven to be memorable because they are based on reality. The good news is that there is a wide selection of options for those looking for the best medieval TV shows, whether it be for their tone, their battle sequences, or compelling protagonists.

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The best Medieval movies are some of the most popular historical films ever, with these proving to be beloved classics that time will never forget.

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25 The Borgias (2011-2013)

The Rise Of A Cut-Throat Papal Dynasty

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (8)

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The Borgias

TV-MA

The Borgias is a historical drama television series that explores the rise of the Borgia family to the papacy in Renaissance Italy during the 15th century. The series, created by Neil Jordan, stars Jeremy Irons as Pope Alexander VI, François Arnaud as his son Cesare, and Holliday Grainger as their daughter Lucrezia.

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Cast
Jeremy Irons , François Arnaud , Holliday Grainger , Joanne Whalley , Colm Feore

Release Date
April 3, 2011

Seasons
3

The great thing about the best Medieval TV shows is that they cover a wealth of history that goes far beyond the traditional stereotypes of knights, monarchs, and the struggles of feudal life. One of the best examples of a TV show set in the Middle Ages that covers part of the era that's somewhat under-explored on screen is Showtimes' 2011-2013 series The Borgias. Set in Italy during the late 1400s, The Borgias documents the ascendancy of Rodrigo Borgia to the position of Pope - though how the eventual Pope Alexander VI gained the position was a much more violent and bloody affair than the journeys of modern-day pontiffs.

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Starring Jeremy Irons as Rodrigo Borgia alongside the likes of Francois Arnaud, Holliday Grainger, and a wide ensemble cast, The Borgias is similar to Game of Thrones when it comes to the levels of back-stabbing intrigue and bloody violence. It doesn't really contain the epic battle scenes that are a staple of many Medieval TV shows, but when it comes nailbiting character-driven drama, few can match it.

24 Shogun (2024)

Hulu's Dive Into Medieval Japan

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (12)

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Shogun

TV-MA

Shogun is an FX original mini-series set in 17th Century Japan. Shogun follows John Blackthorne, who becomes a samurai warrior but is unknowingly a pawn in Yoshii Toranaga's plan to become Shogun. The series starsCosmo Jarvis as John Blackthorne and Hiroyuki Sanada as Yoshii Toranaga, along with Anna Sawai, Tadanobu Asano, and Yûki Kedôin.

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Cast
Cosmo Jarvis , Hiroyuki Sanada , Anna Sawai , Tadanobu Asano , Yûki Kedôin , Takehiro Hira , Tommy Bastow

Release Date
February 27, 2024

Creator(s)
Rachel Kondo , Justin Marks

Most Medieval TV shows have a Western perspective and are set in Europe during the Middle Ages, though among the best in the genre are many that focus on other regions of the world. One of the best and most recent in this regard is Hulu's Shogun, which arrived in 2024. Based on the 1975 novel of the same name by James Clavell, Shogun is a semi-fictionalized retelling of the rise of the Shogunate in the feudal Japan of the 16th century.

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Shogun has been praised both for its historical accuracy and its unflinching commitment to brutal and heart-wrenching drama throughout. The story is also fascinating, as it delves into the relationship Japan had with the European powers during the late Medieval era. The show is currently available on Hulu and remains one of the best Medieval TV shows to release in the 2020s so far.

23 Da Vinci's Demons (2013-2015)

The Struggles Of The Greatest Genius Of The Medieval Period

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (15)

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Da Vinci's Demons

Da Vinci's Demons is a Starz orignal series that aired on the network for three seasons between 2013 and 2015.Da Vinci's Demons centers on a young Leonardo Da Vinci as he begins to craft beautiful paintings and intuitive inventions. The series starred Tom Riley as Leonardo Da Vinci and was created by David S. Goyer.

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Cast
Tom Riley , Laura Haddock , Blake Ritson

Release Date
April 12, 2013

Seasons
3

Showrunner
David S. Goyer

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Da Vinci's Demons ran on the Starz network between 2013 and 2015, and it remains one of the best Medieval TV shows, especially among those which (much like Shogun and The Borgias) have something to offer viewers outside the traditional tropes of knights and battles. As the title suggests, Da Vinci's Demons focuses on the life of Leonardo Da Vinci, the famed inventor and painter who lived between 1452 and 1519. The story is a fictionalized retelling of Da Vinci's early life, and isn't as historically accurate as many other Medieval TV shows, but that doesn't stop it being incredibly gripping.

While the show may focus on a renowned artist, Da Vinci's Demons is oozing violence and intrigue in every episode. The show sees Da Vinci become embroiled in struggles to control the city of Florence, a dangerous cult, and a hunt for spies among its many plots. It's truly unique among the best Medieval TV shows, and like The Borgias bears a striking similarity to Game of Thrones when it comes to its overall tone.

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22 Blackadder (1983-1989)

Rowan Atkinson's Take On British History

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (20)

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Blackadder

TV-PG

Blackadder is a British sitcom starring Rowan Atkinson as various incarnations of Edmund Blackadder, spanning different historical eras from the Middle Ages to World War I. Created by Richard Curtis and Rowan Atkinson, the series blends satirical humor and historical settings, offering a comedic take on British history with a sharp wit and memorable characters, including Baldrick, played by Tony Robinson.

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Cast
Rowan Atkinson , Tony Robinson , Tim McInnerny , Hugh Laurie , Stephen Fry , Miranda Richardson , Tony Aitken , Patrick Allen

Release Date
June 15, 1983

Seasons
4

While most of the best Medieval TV shows are dark and gritty dramas, this is far from always the case. When it comes to comedies set in the Medieval era, few can match the classic British sitcom Blackadder. Starring Rowan Atkinson, who is most known for portraying Mr. Bean, each season of Blackadder takes place during a different period of British history, with most of the cast members portraying various generations of the same families.

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It's only the first two seasons of Blackadder that take place during the Medieval era. Season 1 is set in 1485, and season 2 takes place during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I (who sat on the British throne between 1558 and 1603). Rowan Atkinson delivered a career-defining performance as the various versions of Edmund Blackadder, who in each series is a scoundrel doing his best to elevate his social status and, more often than not, ends up failing miserably.

21 Reign (2013-2017)

The Life And Times Of Mary Queen Of Scots

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (22)

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Reign

Drama

Reign is a historical fiction drama series that aired on The CW for four seasons from 2013-2017. The show takes place in the late 16th century, and tells the story of Mary, Queen of Scots, played by Adelaide Kane.

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Cast
Adelaide Kane

Release Date
October 17, 2013

Showrunner
Brad Silberling

During its golden era, The CW put out some of the best scripted TV shows being broadcast, and among them was an incredible series set in the Middle Ages - Reign. Reign takes many of the tropes of the best Medieval TV shows and twists them into a romantic drama focusing on the life of Mary, Queen of Scots. Set in the mid 1500s, Reign explores the trials and tribulations of Mary (the sister of Queen Elizabeth I) as she navigates her way through the French court while awaiting her arranged marriage to France's Crown Prince Francis.

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Few of the best Medieval TV shows can claim to be as steamy as Reign, and the show was famously edited to trim back some of the more sexual content. It's the perfect series set in the Middle Ages for those who want a serious drama that captures the era, but would rather a story that doesn't focus so much on violence and bloodshed. The cast also delivered incredibly solid performances throughout, especially Adelaide Kane as Mary, Queen of Scots.

20 Britannia (2018-2021)

Female Warriors & Druids In The War Between The Romans & Celts

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (25)
Britannia

TV-MA

Set in 43 AD, Britannia is a historical fantasy drama that follows the Roman invasion of Britain, focusing on the clash between the Roman Empire and the native Celtic tribes. The series features an ensemble cast led by David Morrissey, Kelly Reilly, and Mackenzie Crook, exploring themes of power, myth, and survival amidst a backdrop of ancient Britain’s turbulent history.

Cast
David Morrissey , Eleanor Worthington-Cox , Mackenzie Crook , Julian Rhind-Tutt , Liana Cornell , Annabel Scholey , Nikolaj Lie Kaas , Hugo Speer

Release Date
January 18, 2018

Seasons
3

Creator(s)
Jez Butterworth , Tom Butterworth , James Richardson

Britannia is a co-production between Amazon Prime Video and Sky UK and is a good companion show for more popular series like Rome and Vikings. The time frame of this series is 43 AD, and the battle is between the Romans and Celts.

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What makes Britannia different from other shows in the genre is that it features warrior women, magical Druids, and Celtic Queens, and gives fans of medieval entertainment a show with a strong female slant that can get overlooked in other projects.

Britannia mixes fantasy into the real-life history of the Roman invasion of Great Britain, which means there are several real historical figures in addition to the druids and demons that the story throws in. It also uses modern pop songs, making it sound very different from other medieval TV shows. The series ran for three seasons and the story ended shortly after the Roman invasion of Britain.

19 Vinland Saga (2019–2023)

An Anime About A Viking Warrior Seeking Revenge

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (26)
Vinland Saga

Vinland Saga is an adaptation of the historical-action manga series by Makoto Yukimura. Centering around young Thorfinn, the story sees the young man on a quest for revenge following the murder of his father by the mercenary Askeladd. To accomplish this feat, Thorfinn joins Askeladd's company to bide his time and prepare to face him in the future. The story starts around 1002 AD and revolves around fictional accounts of the Danish invasion of London.

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Cast
Yûto Uemura , Mike Haimoto , Shinya Takahashi , Alejandro Saab , Hiroki Gotô , Aleks Le , Kaiji Tang , Michael C. Pizzuto

Release Date
July 6, 2019

Seasons
2

Network
Netflix

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Vinland Saga brings the world of medieval TV shows into the anime format. Though there are several anime options when looking at medieval stories, Vinland Saga is the best of the best in the eyes of many.

Based on the Makoto Yukimura manga series, Vinland Saga follows protagonist Thorfinn, a former warrior of a band of pirates led by Askeladd. He is also the son of one of the world's greatest warriors, Thors. Vinland Saga finished season 2 in 2023 and is set in the world of Vikings, but this is mostly a revenge story that sees Thorfinn going after the man who killed his father and his rise into legend as his journey continues.

While the first season is a straight revenge tale, the second becomes more of a story of an enslaved man (Thorfinn) who needs to find a reason to go on living. The series received critical acclaim and earned several nominations at anime awards ceremonies.

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18 El Cid (2020–2021)

The Legend Of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (30)
El Cid (2020)

TV-14

El Cid, a historical drama series, follows the life of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar (Jaime Lorente), a legendary Castilian nobleman and military leader in medieval Spain. The show explores his rise from a nobleman to a revered war hero, navigating political intrigue, warfare, and personal challenges.

Cast
Jaime Lorente , Francisco Ortiz , Alicia Sanz , Jaime Olías , Lucía Guerrero , Pablo Álvarez , Adrián Salzedo , David Castillo

Release Date
December 18, 2020

The Legend of El Cid is an Amazon Prime Video original. Set in the 11th century, the Spanish historical drama follows the life of Ruy, a young squire who uncovers a scandal that involves a conspiracy to murder and a plan to commit regicide. However, by bringing this to everyone's attention, Ruy puts himself and his loved ones in danger.

Partially inspired by the story of the real-life knight and nobleman, this medieval series ran for two seasons and 10 episodes. El Cid received praise for how it builds suspense and includes gripping cliffhangers that keep the audience coming back for more.

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The fact that the characters aren't one-dimensional helped make this more than just a historical epic and allowed it to play out as a great drama series as well. This Prime Video series is based on the same legendary figure as the 1961 Oscar-nominated movie of the same name, starring Charlton Heston.

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From Vikings to Spartacus, historical series are always admired. These 25 are the best historical TV shows.

17 Knightfall (2017–2019)

The Knights Templar's Rise & Fall

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (32)
Knightfall

Knightfall is a historical drama that aired on the History Channel for two seasons before being canceled in May 2020. Created by Don Handfield and Richard Rayner, Knightfall tells the tale of the rise and destruction of the Knights Templar. Tom Cullen starred as the main character Landry and Mark Hamill also appeared as Talus for five episodes..

Cast
Tom Cullen , Mark Hamill

Release Date
February 6, 2017

Seasons
2
Network
History Channel

Although it only ran for two seasons, Knightfall remains one of the best medieval TV shows ever made. Set in the 14th century, Knightfall was a series that explored the lives of several soldiers in the Knights Templar as they tried to keep their power and influence in the Holy Land.

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The medieval series ultimately follows the story of the rise, fall, and persecution of the Knights Templar, thanks to King Phillip IV of France. While some questioned the plot and uneven storytelling, even those critics believed that the directors more than made up for it with the battle sequences and the fight choreography.

There are also some dynamic characters as well as some compelling and complex villains. The series even features fan-favorite actor Mark Hamill (Star Wars), who joined the cast in season 2 as a veteran Templar.

16 Medici (2016–2019)

The History Of The Medici Family

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (33)
Medici

TV-14

Medici (2016) is a historical drama series that chronicles the rise of the Medici family in 15th century Florence. Led by Richard Madden as Cosimo de Medici and Dustin Hoffman as Giovanni de Medici, the series delves into the family's political and economic maneuvers that shaped Renaissance Europe. It explores themes of power, art, and betrayal, providing a detailed portrayal of one of history's most influential families.

Cast
Richard Madden , Stuart Martin , Annabel Scholey , Guido Caprino , Alessandro Sperduti , Valentina Bellè , Alessandro Preziosi , Eugenio Franceschini , Sarah Felberbaum , Miriam Leone , Valentina Cervi , Brian Cox , Dustin Hoffman

Release Date
October 18, 2016

Seasons
3

Directors
Christian Duguay , Sergio Mimica-Gezzan , Jon Cassar , Jan Michelini

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With three seasons and a star-studded cast, Medici chronicles the rise and fall of the infamous Italian family. The series is full of corruption, rivalries, and political strife. However, it's not only full of drama, either, as the writers also manage to find a perfect balance between romance and action.

Each season of the series follows a moment in the Medici family's history and the landscape of Renaissance Italy. While Medici wasn't always historically accurate since they had to dramatize a few events for the sake of some storyline, it does provide insight into how influential and powerful the Medicis were in 15th-century Florence.

There were three seasons and 24 episodes, and it earned five nominations at the La Chioma di Berenice, an awards ceremony honoring Italian craftsmen and artists. It won for Best Makeup and Best Production Design, showing how great the series looked.

15 Merlin (2008–2012)

Merlin & Arthur In Their Younger Years

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (34)
Merlin

In this reimagining of Arthurian legend, young Merlin saves the life of young Prince Arthur, and realizes that the reason for his magical gift is to protect the future king. However, because magic is illegal, Merlin must hide his gift, even as he and Arthur become friends over their adventure.

Cast
Colin Morgan , Bradley James , Katie McGrath , Anthony Head , Richard Wilson , John Hurt , Nathaniel Parker

Release Date
September 20, 2008

Seasons
5
Network
BBC

Directors
Mandy Moore

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Whether it's the cool battle sequences, the interesting storylines inspired by the Arthurian Legend, or because it has some of the best characters, Merlin managed to captivate the audience for five seasons as one of the best medieval TV shows.

Although Merlin isn't historically accurate (especially in terms of costumes and not really following the classic tales), it focuses a lot on fantasy and includes a lot of mythological creatures. As the title indicates, this series follows Merlin, who must hide his powers as Arthur's father banned magic in Camelot.

Throughout the series, Arthur and Merlin become close friends, setting up their adventures when the boy becomes King. There's not a lot of blood or gore in this series, as it is mostly family-friendly, so it's great for those who want something lighthearted and fun. Merlin won the 2011 BAFTA for Best Visual Effects and received nominations for several other awards over its run.

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Merlin: What Your Favorite Character Says About You

Your favorite character from BBC's Merlin says a lot about you, particularly what your greatest strengths and weaknesses are.

14 Marco Polo (2014–2016)

Marco Polo's Time In Kublai Khan's Court

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (36)
Marco Polo (2014)

TV-MA

Marco Polo (2014) is a historical drama series created by John Fusco, which follows the early years of the famed explorer Marco Polo in the court of Kublai Khan, the leader of the Mongol Empire. Starring Lorenzo Richelmy as Marco, the series explores themes of power, politics, and cultural exchange in the 13th century, providing a fictionalized account of Polo’s experiences and contributions.

Cast
Lorenzo Richelmy , Benedict Wong , Joan Chen , Remy Hii , Zhu Zhu , Mahesh Jadu , Uli Latukefu , Olivia Cheng , Tom Wu , Claudia Kim , Rick Yune , Chin Han , Stanislav Satko , Amr Waked , Pierfrancesco Favino , Kheng Hua Tan , Leonard Wu , Lawrence Makoare , Max Kellady , Ron Yuan , Jacqueline Chan

Release Date
December 12, 2014

Seasons
2

Creator(s)
John Fusco

Honing in on Polo's years in the court of Kublai Khan of the Mongol Empire, Marco Polo mostly diverges from Western themes, focusing instead on China circa the Yuan Dynasty. The series sees Polo taken to China and left there as a guest of Kublai Khan (Doctor Strange's Benedict Wong), where Polo soon rose into an official position in the court.

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Although this Netflix series only lasted two seasons, it's rich with character drama, twists and turns, and lavish set pieces loosely based on Eastern history. Its robust budget of $200 million can be seen in its rich cinematography and sleek production value, making it one of the best-looking medieval TV shows on Netflix.

While it only received mixed to poor reviews, it picked up an Emmy nomination for its Main Title Theme Music, which is a highlight of the series, and won an award from the American Society of Cinematographers.

13 The Pillars Of The Earth (2010)

A Drama During The Anarchy

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (37)
The Pillars of the Earth

Set in England in the 12th century, when a scenario of war, religious conflicts and power struggles marked the crisis of succession to the English throne.

Cast
Eddie Redmayne , Ian McShane , Matthew Macfadyen , Hayley Atwell , Sarah Parish , Natalia Wörner , Anatole Taubman

Release Date
July 23, 2010

Seasons
1
Network
Starz

Directors
Sergio Mimica-Gezzan

Based on the historical novel by Ken Follet, this miniseries crams a wealth of interesting backstories and authenticity into each of its eight episodes. As viewers would imagine from a show based on an English civil war called "The Anarchy," there are plenty of gripping, dramatic moments in the series.

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The show keeps a narrow focus on the one hand, revolving around the construction of a cathedral while providing a deep and vast narrative involving several unique characters. Lavish backdrops and standout performances by Ian McShane and Hayley Atwell give The Pillars of the Earth an enriching sense of authenticity.

For those familiar with the novel, major changes are made to the adaptation, with an ending completely different from the source material. The series also invents several moments from The Anarchy timeline for the series, so it is also not historically accurate in the least.

12 Cadfael (1994–1998)

A Medieval Detective Series

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (38)
Cadfael

TV-14

Cadfael is a British mystery television series set in the 12th century, based on the novels by Ellis Peters. Derek Jacobi stars as Brother Cadfael, a former crusader turned monk, who uses his investigative skills and herbal knowledge to solve crimes in Shrewsbury Abbey.

Cast
Derek Jacobi , Michael Culver , Julian Firth , Terrence Hardiman , Mark Charnock , Albie Woodington , Eoin McCarthy , Sean Pertwee

Release Date
January 12, 1995

Seasons
4

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The cutthroat era of Europe 1,000 years ago seems rife with potential concerning compelling murder mysteries. Cadfael is a British series from the mid-90s that takes advantage of this, crafting engaging crime plots dressed in 12th-century English settings.

It takes the premise of Columbo and fuses it with medieval genre tropes, making for a distinctly entertaining show. Even with the fun potential of the protagonist's background as a Crusader-turned-Monk, Cadfael focuses on dynamic writing and interesting plots to keep its viewers enticed rather than action.

Based on The Cadfael Chronicles novels by Ellis Peters, Derek Jacobi (Gladiator) stars as Brother Cadfael, an herbalist and former crusading knight who becomes a detective who helps solve crimes during the Anarchy, between 1137 and 1145. The series lasted four seasons, but only has 13 episodes.

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11 The Tudors (2007–2010)

A Showtime Drama During The Tudor Dynasty

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (39)
The Tudors

TV-MA

The Tudors is a historical drama television series that chronicles the reign of King Henry VIII of England, played by Jonathan Rhys Meyers. The show explores his tumultuous relationships, including his marriages to Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn, while delving into the intrigue, politics, and drama of the Tudor court.

Cast
Jonathan Rhys Meyers , Henry Cavill , Sarah Bolger , Max Brown , David O'Hara

Release Date
April 1, 2007

Seasons
4

While Michael Hirst is perhaps most known for his work on Vikings, a similarly dense, compelling historical drama of his found its way on BBC years before. The Tudors takes place several centuries after that show, honing in on England in the period between the Dark Ages and Modernity, the Renaissance.

This transitional era sets the stage for a wealth of significant events, and Hirst takes advantage of this. While the series is named after the Tudor dynasty, it is based on King Henry VIII's reign.While The Tudors runs with some creative liberties, the show uses fiction and history to round out one of the best medieval TV shows about King Henry VIII.

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According to Hirst, "Showtime commissioned me to write an entertainment, a soap opera, and not history. … And we wanted people to watch it." (via New York Times). It worked, as The Tudors was the highest-rated Showtime series during its time on the air (via Variety).

Related

The Tudors: 5 Things That Are Historically Accurate (And 5 Things That Are Aren’t)

The Tudors embellishes a bit of the history it's based on to amp up the drama but there are a handful of storylines that are historically accurate.

10 Redwall (1999–2002)

Mice Fighting For Freedom In The Medieval Era

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (41)
Redwall

TV-Y7

Redwall (1999) is an animated series based on Brian Jacques' popular novels, following a young mouse named Matthias and his quest to protect Redwall Abbey from the villainous rat Cluny the Scourge. Set in a medieval world populated by anthropomorphic animals, the show explores themes of bravery, loyalty, and heroism as Matthias endeavors to become a legendary warrior and find the lost sword of Martin the Warrior.

Cast
Chris Wiggins , Brian Jacques , Richard Binsley , John Stocker , Graham Haley , Andrew Gillies , Ellen-Ray Hennessy , Tyrone Savage

Release Date
April 1, 2001

Seasons
3

A cartoon centered around talking mice isn't exactly authentic to history, but this whimsical fantasy uses medieval themes to paint this majestic scene while appealing to kids. This Canadian animation draws from the popular fantasy novels by Brian Jacques, with each of its three seasons comprising a different book.

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Focusing on a once-poor mouse named Matthias, the show captures the often gritty nature of medieval living while balancing it with lighthearted humor.

Focusing on a once-poor mouse named Matthias, the show captures the often gritty nature of medieval living while balancing it with lighthearted humor. The first season is based on Redwall, the second on Mattimeo, and the third on Martin the Warrior. While this is a cartoon, it delivers a mature story.

The series features several deaths and never shies away from the rough lives people (or mice) suffered through in the medieval era. There were 39 episodes in the three seasons, airing on Teletoon in Canada and Cartoon Network in the United States.

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Related

A Game of Thrones sequel about Jon Snow was in development at HBO, but the much-anticipated project has since been canceled.

9 Rise Of Empires: Ottoman (2020)

The Story Of Mehmed The Conqueror

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (43)
Rise of Empires: Ottoman

TV-MA

Rise of Empires: Ottoman is a Turkish docudrama that examines the historical events surrounding the rise of the Ottoman Empire, particularly focusing on the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by Sultan Mehmed II. Combining expert analysis, dramatic reenactments, and voiceovers, the series presents a comprehensive look at this pivotal moment in world history.

Cast
Cem Yigit Uzümoglu , Tuba Büyüküstün , Alp Ilkman , Ushan Çakir , Charles Dance , Birkan Sokullu , Tommaso Basili , Osman Sonant

Release Date
September 10, 2020

Seasons
2

Anyone who loved Game of Thrones but wanted to see a historically more accurate medieval series should seek out the docudrama Rise of Empires: Ottoman, one of the best medieval TV shows on Netflix. Forget about the fantastical demons and monsters from Game of Thrones.

The real-life historical events this series focuses on are just as dramatic and exciting as any supernatural attack. Rise of Empires: Ottoman deals with the fall of the Holy Roman Empire and looks at the successors in Constantinople and the creation of Istanbul after the conquest by Mehmed II.

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The series was shot in Turkey, and the second season even brings in a little bit of medieval lore with the arrival of Vlad the Impaler (the inspiration for Dracula) as a childhood friend of Mehmed. For history fans, the series remains very accurate regarding timelines and the fate of Constantinople.

8 Isabel (2011–2014)

The Political Life & Times Of Queen Isabella

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (44)
Isabel

Isabel is a historical drama series that chronicles the life of Isabella I of Castile, depicting her rise to power and her role in the unification of Spain. Michelle Jenner stars as Isabella, alongside Rodolfo Sancho as Ferdinand II of Aragon. The series explores the political intrigue, alliances, and conflicts of 15th-century Spain, highlighting Isabella's determination and influence as a queen.

Cast
Michelle Jenner , Ramon Madaula , Rodolfo Sancho , Jordi Díaz , Ainhoa Santamaría , Sergio Peris-Mencheta , Lluís Soler , Elisabet Gelabert

Release Date
September 10, 2012

Seasons
3

Based largely upon the reign of Queen Isabella of Castile,Isabel has proven to be an underrated addition to the medieval genre. Like GoT, this series shows the rise to power of various major figures of royal families, along with the inevitable drama, struggles, and clashes that come with them.

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This short-lived Spanish show features terrific performances by Michelle Jenner as Isabel, Rodolfo Sancho as Ferdinand of Aragon, and Pablo Derqui as Henry of Castile. This great cast is enhanced by some authentic Spanish settings and complex societal/political happenings, including the voyage of Christopher Columbus and the Spanish Inquisition.

The series lasted for three seasons and 39 episodes, with the first season starting in 1461 and the final season ending in the early 1500s. The series was critically acclaimed, winning several awards, including Best Fiction at the Iris Awards by the Spanish Academy of Television and Audiovisual Arts and Sciences.

7 The Hollow Crown (2012–2016)

Based On Shakespeare's Second Tetralogy

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (45)
The Hollow Crown

TV-14

The Hollow Crown unveils an enthralling tale of power, betrayal, and ambition set in medieval England. Through Shakespeare's enduring works, audiences experience the tumultuous rise and fall of kings, intricate court politics, and noble rivalries. With riveting performances and striking visuals, the series vividly portrays the epic quest for the throne. As alliances shift and loyalties are tested, viewers are immersed in a world where every decision holds consequences and each character strives for their place in history.

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Cast
Anton Lesser , Simon Russell Beale , Tom Georgeson , John Mackay , Tom Hiddleston , Sophie Okonedo , James Laurenson , Tom Sturridge

Release Date
September 20, 2013

Seasons
2

Network
BBC Two

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While there are a number of the best medieval TV shows loosely based on English history of the Middle Ages, BBC Two's The Hollow Crown portrays this period from a more accurate and authentic angle, honing in on major events like the Wars of the Roses.

The first season draws from the captivating works of Shakespeare's second tetralogy, which includes plays such as The Life and Death of King Richard II. The second season focuses on the War of the Roses, and each season has a different cast.

The authentic set pieces, tremendous acting by Ben Whishaw, Patrick Stewart, and Jeremy Irons in season one and Benedict Cumberbatch and Judi Dench in season 2, and the rich source material offer a solid foundation for this action-tinged drama. The series won four BAFTA Awards, including Best Leading Actor for Whishaw, Best Supporting Actor for Simon Russell Beale, and Best Original Music.

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Related

10 Best Medieval War Movies, Ranked

Most war movies tell stories from more recent conflicts, but nothing can rival the epic scale and brutal hand-to-hand combat of medieval warfare.

6 The Last Kingdom (2015–2022)

The Vikings Raids From 866 To 878

The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (49)
The Last Kingdom

Based on the Saxon Stories novel series by Bernard Cornwell, The Last Kingdom tells the story of a man who seeks to reclaim his birthright. Set in 872, the kingdoms that makeup England have come under Dane rule, with Wessex the last one standing under King Alfred. The protagonist, Uhtred, is born of noble descent but is captured by the Danes and raised to be one. As he ages, he must choose between his ancestral home or the family that caught but raised him. Uhted will wrestle with his loyalties as he battles between his Saxon and Dane lineages.

Cast
Alexander Dreymon , Emily Cox , Ian Hart , Eliza Butterworth , Eva Birthistle , Mark Rowley , Cavan Clerkin , Tobias Santelmann , David Dawson

Release Date
October 5, 2015

Seasons
5
Network
BBC

Directors
Alexander Dreymon

While plenty of medieval TV shows focus on the late Middle Ages, The Last Kingdom revolves around the even more violent and cutthroat era of 9th-century England. As it dates back to a time of instability, where Britain was fractured into various (often warring) kingdoms, drama, strife, and outright conflict are guaranteed.

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It also shows the further destabilizing factor of the Northmen raiders becoming emboldened and mounting assaults on the island. The series follows the Bernard Cornwell novels, starting with The Saxon Stories, and follows the years of 866 to 878 when Guthrum and Ubba Ragnarsson left the Great Heathen Army into the war between the Vikings and Anglo-Saxons.

The Last Kingdom sets the stage for some intense and epic battle scenes rarely seen on television. A plethora of enticing narratives and rich characters help flesh out this epic historical show, which lasted five seasons and 46 episodes.

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The 25 Best Medieval TV Shows, Ranked (2024)

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