10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Reign (2013)

Description: Like 'Reign', 'The Tudors' is a historical drama that blends political intrigue with personal drama, focusing on the life of a young monarch (Henry VIII) and his court. Both shows emphasize the challenges of leadership, romantic entanglements, and the struggle for power in a royal setting. The lavish costumes and sets in 'The Tudors' also mirror the visual opulence of 'Reign'.

Fact: Jonathan Rhys Meyers, who plays Henry VIII, was initially hesitant to take the role because he didn't want to play a historical figure. The series was filmed in Ireland, utilizing many of the same locations as 'The Borgias'. Despite its historical setting, the show took many creative liberties with timelines and events for dramatic effect.

Description: 'The Borgias' shares with 'Reign' a focus on the darker side of power and the lengths to which people will go to maintain it. Both series feature young protagonists navigating complex political landscapes, with plenty of intrigue, betrayal, and romance. The lavish production design and costumes in 'The Borgias' are also reminiscent of 'Reign'.

Fact: Jeremy Irons, who plays Rodrigo Borgia, initially turned down the role but changed his mind after reading the script. The series was created by Neil Jordan, who also directed several episodes. Despite critical acclaim, the show was canceled after three seasons due to high production costs.

Description: This series, like 'Reign', centers on a strong female protagonist navigating the treacherous waters of royal politics and romance. Both shows are based on historical events but emphasize the personal and emotional journeys of their characters. The themes of power, betrayal, and love are central to both narratives, and both feature lush period settings and costumes.

Fact: 'The White Queen' is based on Philippa Gregory's historical novels, which are known for their focus on women's perspectives in history. The series was filmed in Belgium, using many medieval castles as backdrops. It was nominated for several awards, including a Golden Globe for Best Miniseries or Television Film.

Description: 'Outlander' shares with 'Reign' a blend of historical drama and romance, with strong female leads at the center of the story. Both series feature time-displaced protagonists navigating unfamiliar and dangerous worlds, and both emphasize the personal and emotional stakes of historical events. The lush cinematography and detailed costumes in 'Outlander' are also similar to 'Reign'.

Fact: The series is based on Diana Gabaldon's bestselling novels. Caitriona Balfe, who plays Claire, was a former fashion model before becoming an actress. The show is filmed in Scotland, using many historical locations.

Description: While 'Wolf Hall' is more politically focused than 'Reign', both series explore the inner workings of royal courts and the personal lives of those who inhabit them. The shows share a commitment to historical detail and complex characterizations, though 'Wolf Hall' is more austere in its visual style compared to the opulence of 'Reign'.

Fact: The series is based on Hilary Mantel's award-winning novels, 'Wolf Hall' and 'Bring Up the Bodies'. Mark Rylance, who plays Thomas Cromwell, won a BAFTA for his performance. The show was filmed in England, using many historical locations.

Description: Like 'Reign', 'Poldark' is a period drama that combines romance, political intrigue, and personal struggle. Both series feature charismatic leads and explore the challenges of maintaining integrity in a world of shifting loyalties. The sweeping landscapes and detailed period settings in 'Poldark' are visually comparable to the opulent courts of 'Reign'.

Fact: The series is a remake of a 1970s BBC drama, also based on Winston Graham's novels. Aidan Turner, who plays Ross Poldark, became a heartthrob for his shirtless scything scenes. The show was filmed in Cornwall, England, where the novels are set.

Description: Though 'The Last Kingdom' is more action-oriented than 'Reign', both series feature young protagonists navigating turbulent political landscapes. Both shows blend historical events with personal drama, and both explore themes of loyalty, identity, and power. The production values in 'The Last Kingdom' are similarly high, with attention to period detail.

Fact: The series is based on Bernard Cornwell's 'The Saxon Stories' novels. The protagonist, Uhtred, is a fictional character, but many of the other characters are based on historical figures. The show was initially produced by BBC America before moving to Netflix.

Description: 'Versailles' shares with 'Reign' a focus on the opulence and decadence of royal courts, along with the political machinations and personal dramas of young monarchs. Both series highlight the tension between public duty and private desire, set against a backdrop of sumptuous palaces and intricate court etiquette. The visual aesthetics of 'Versailles' are similarly lavish, with attention to period-accurate costumes and settings.

Fact: 'Versailles' was one of the most expensive French television series ever produced at the time of its release. The show was filmed at the actual Palace of Versailles, adding to its authenticity. The series was initially met with controversy in France for its portrayal of Louis XIV and his court.

Description: 'Victoria' mirrors 'Reign' in its focus on a young queen navigating the complexities of power and love. Both series highlight the personal and political challenges faced by female rulers, and both are rich in historical detail and visual splendor. The romantic subplots and court intrigues in 'Victoria' are similarly engaging to those in 'Reign'.

Fact: Jenna Coleman, who plays Victoria, also starred in 'Doctor Who' as Clara Oswald. The series was filmed at various historical locations, including Harewood House and Castle Howard. Queen Victoria's diaries were a primary source for the show's scripts.

Description: As a sequel to 'The White Queen', 'The Spanish Princess' continues the tradition of strong female leads in historical dramas, much like 'Reign'. The show explores the life of Catherine of Aragon, focusing on her youth, ambitions, and struggles in a foreign court. Both series blend historical events with personal drama, and both are visually stunning, with detailed costumes and sets.

Fact: The series is based on two novels by Philippa Gregory, 'The Constant Princess' and 'The King's Curse'. Charlotte Hope, who plays Catherine, learned Spanish for the role. The show features a diverse cast, reflecting the multicultural aspects of the historical period.