If you were captivated by 'She-Wolves: England's Early Queens' (2012), a gripping documentary series about the formidable women who shaped medieval England, you'll love these 10 similar shows and movies. This article curates a list of historical dramas and documentaries that delve into the lives of powerful female rulers, offering the same blend of intrigue, politics, and rich storytelling. Whether you're a history buff or just love tales of strong women, these picks will keep you hooked.

The Tudors (2007)
Description: Centers on the tumultuous reign of Henry VIII, highlighting the political and personal struggles of monarchy, with a strong emphasis on the influence of women in court.
Fact: Despite its historical setting, the show took creative liberties, such as omitting Henry VIII's famous weight gain in later life.


The Borgias (2011)
Description: A dark and dramatic depiction of the infamous Borgia family's rise to power, featuring strong female characters who wield influence behind the scenes.
Fact: The show was created by Neil Jordan and was noted for its sumptuous set designs and intricate costumes, though it was canceled after three seasons.


The White Queen (2013)
Description: A historical drama focusing on powerful women navigating the political intrigues of medieval England, similar in its exploration of female leadership and courtly machinations.
Fact: Based on Philippa Gregory's novels, it blends historical events with fictional drama, and was criticized for its historical inaccuracies but praised for its strong female leads.


Reign (2013)
Description: A dramatized account of Mary, Queen of Scots' life, blending historical events with romantic and political intrigue, much like the focus on queenship and power struggles.
Fact: The show was known for its anachronistic costumes and music, which modernized the historical setting for a younger audience.


Wolf Hall (2015)
Description: A meticulously crafted period drama that delves into the complexities of Tudor politics, focusing on the rise of Thomas Cromwell and the power dynamics at court.
Fact: Adapted from Hilary Mantel's Booker Prize-winning novels, it is noted for its authentic portrayal of 16th-century England and its slow-burning narrative style.


The Last Kingdom (2015)
Description: Set during the Viking invasions of England, it explores themes of leadership, loyalty, and the clash of cultures, with strong female characters influencing political outcomes.
Fact: Based on Bernard Cornwell's 'The Saxon Stories,' the series is praised for its gritty realism and complex characters.


Versailles (2015)
Description: A lavish portrayal of the court of Louis XIV, highlighting the opulence and political maneuvering of the French monarchy, with a focus on the king's powerful female relatives.
Fact: The series was the most expensive French TV production at the time, with a budget of €27 million for the first season.


Medici: Masters of Florence (2016)
Description: Focuses on the Medici family's rise in Renaissance Florence, with a strong emphasis on political strategy and the role of women in shaping the family's legacy.
Fact: The series was filmed on location in Italy, including at the actual Medici palaces, adding to its historical authenticity.


Victoria (2016)
Description: Chronicles the early reign of Queen Victoria, emphasizing her struggles and triumphs as a young woman in a male-dominated political landscape.
Fact: The series was filmed at many real historical locations, including Kensington Palace, where Victoria spent her childhood.


The Pillars of the Earth (2010)
Description: A sweeping historical epic set in 12th-century England, revolving around the construction of a cathedral and the power struggles surrounding it, with significant roles for women.
Fact: Based on Ken Follett's bestselling novel, the miniseries was praised for its detailed recreation of medieval life and its complex, interwoven plotlines.
