So, you’ve binge-watched Bridgerton; the popular tv series on Netflix, and now you don’t know what to do with yourself. Not to worry, I have my favorite movies and tv series that while don’t fully compete with Bridgerton, will def keep you satisfied enough to properly ween yourself off until next season.

The Courtship

The Courtship is an American reality tv dating show taking place Regency era style. The show comes complete with a castle, a princess, and multiple gents competing for her love and affection. The first season features the beautiful Nicole Remy, her family, and best friend along with multiple bachelors. The Courtship is similar to Bridgerton due to its English countryside setting, attire, etiquette, and most importantly the multiple love matches with the exception that these are real potentials. You can watch The Courtship on Peacock TV. It is free but the streaming service also has two paid options for more and/or ad-free access. You can watch the trailer and signup for free with an email here: Watch The Courtship Streaming Online | Peacock (peacocktv.com)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zg93K8oySHM

Reign

Reign is a period piece drama based on Mary, Queen of Scots. It’s full of everything that makes for a good period piece; the attire (pretty sure I searched Amazon for crowns while watching this), scandal, love, and plenty of drama. I completed all 4 seasons and still craved more. This series isn’t as happy and upbeat as Bridgerton, it has its fair share of dark scenes. You can watch Reign on Netflix.

Lady J

Lady J is yet another period piece that will give all the feels you’re craving of the English countryside. The movie is about a woman who falls in love with the charm of a nobleman then sets out for revenge after he wrongs her. I must forewarn you Lady J is in French audio with the option of English subtitles. Don’t let that deter you though, this movie is def worth the watch and you’ll forget you’re reading the movie rather than listening. Lady J is available on Netflix.

The Cook of Castamar

I began this series and most others on this list after the first season of Bridgerton when I desperately needed more. The Cook of Castamar did not disappoint. The main characters are of course the cook and the Duke of Castamar. While I didn’t binge-watch at first, by episode 3 or 4, I found myself drawn into the world of each character and wanting more. You’ll find this Spanish period piece full of romance, drama, scandal, and all the lavishness that goes on in a castle. No need for subtitles as this period piece is in British English with English subtitles as well if you so desire. You can also watch this series on Netflix.

The Other Boleyn Girl

The Other Boleyn Girl is about two sisters Mary and Anne that compete for the affection of King Henry Vlll. This movie stars Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson, with that said, do I really need to say anything else? Both are superb actresses and let’s not talk about when you put them together. You can watch this movie on Netflix. This movie also has its very share of dark scenes.

The Crown

Did you really think I could mention all this royalty and not mention the Queen herself? The Crown is a little less fancy than the others and not considered a period piece, but it surely cannot be dismissed as it follows the life of Queen Elizabeth ll. You won’t get a lot of the typical glam because Queen Elizabeth wasn’t into fashion as much as her sister; Margaret, but you will get all the realities of being a queen; the fear, the responsibility, and the political and personal drama of the position. I will admit, while I greatly enjoyed the first 2 seasons, the change of actresses and style of Season 3 left me feeling a bit disappointed (what was I expecting; the queen to stay the same age the entire series?). I really struggled to watch season 3 and got in the first three episodes of it. I don’t think I’ll pick back up but will perhaps just skip to season 4 where I see Princess Diana (huge fan) enters the picture. You can watch The Crown on Netflix as well.

The Queen’s Ball

Why even watch a movie, why not just go to a lavish ball yourself? Netflix and Shondaland are giving fans an opportunity to “live” the series by meeting the Queen, viewing Bridgerton costumes, and purchasing Bridgerton-inspired items. The Queen’s Ball; A Bridgerton Experience will be held in Chicago, Washington DC, Los Angeles, and Montreal. You can find out more by clicking on this link: The Queen’s Ball: A Bridgerton Experience.

Well ladies and gents, I think I’ve done my due diligence in keeping you informed about your fairy tale options. If you’ve watched any of the movies listed or have suggestions for movies similar to Bridgerton, let me know in the comments.

Until next time,

Karen C