Ah, dearest gentle reader, have you found yourself swept away by the enchanting world of Bridgerton, and now suffer from what is called a post-series slump after binge-watching the final part in one sitting? Fear not, for there exists a treasure trove of period romances ready to fill the void left by Lady Whistledown’s society papers. Prepare yourself for these seven series that are poised to transport you back to an era of corsets and chaperoned courtships.
Downton Abbey
In the grand tradition of British period dramas, Downton Abbey stands as a paragon of elegance. Set in the early 20th century, this beloved series follows the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their loyal servants. The narrative weaves through historical events such as the Titanic disaster, World War I, and the Spanish influenza pandemic, all while exploring the shifting social landscape of the time.
The illustrious cast includes Hugh Bonneville as the dignified Earl of Grantham, Michelle Dockery as the sharp-tongued Lady Mary, and the indomitable Maggie Smith as the Dowager Countess, whose withering remarks are as sharp as her wit. Much like Bridgerton, Downton Abbey offers a heady mix of romance, scandal, and high society drama.
The Gilded Age
Transport yourself to the dazzling opulence of late 19th century New York with The Gilded Age. This series, created by Julian Fellowes of Downton Abbey fame, paints a vivid portrait of a society teetering on the brink of modernity. The plot centres around Marian Brook, a young woman thrust into the lavish yet perilous world of New York’s elite after her father’s death.
The ensemble cast features Christine Baranski as the formidable Agnes van Rhijn, Cynthia Nixon as her kind-hearted sister Ada, and Louisa Jacobson as the determined Marian. Fans of Bridgerton will find much to admire in the exquisitely designed costumes, intricate social dynamics, and the ever-present tension between old money and new.
The Buccaneers
For those who delight in tales of spirited young women defying societal expectations, The Buccaneers is a must-watch. Based on Edith Wharton’s unfinished novel, this series follows a group of American heiresses who travel to England in search of titled husbands, only to find themselves entangled in a web of passion and deception. Alisha Boe stars as the charming Conchita Closson, while Kristine Froseth and Imogen Waterhouse play the bold and beautiful St. George sisters.