Reign, which aired from 2012 to 2017, is set in the year 1557 and follows the story of Mary, Queen of Scots, played by Adelaide Kane. The series unfolds with Mary’s engagement with King Francis. This being a CW show, it involves a typical love triangle with a half-brother.
Megan Follows portrays Mary’s mother-in-law, Catherine de Medici, known for her knowledge of poisons. As the story progresses, Queen Elizabeth I becomes a rival in later seasons.
This show provides a historical backdrop but adds anachronistic elements for fun, including music, fashion, and invented romances. If you liked Reign and wish to watch more similar shows, you are in for a treat. We have compiled a list of historical TV shows that have similar themes like Reign. So, if you are ready, let’s take a look at the list below.
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1. Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story (2023-)
Stream on Netflix
Queen Charlotte is a limited series that explores the romantic relationship between King George III and Charlotte. It is a prequel to the show “Bridgerton” that delves into Charlotte’s rise to power in 18th-century England. Despite facing challenges due to her skin color, her relationship with George withstands the scrutiny.
Both Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story and Reign prioritize drama and entertainment over historical facts. Charlotte marries at a young age in Queen Charlotte, which is similar to Mary Queen of Scots’ story in Reign. The show also sheds light on the evolving political power and ideologies of the time. Queen Charlotte may not have a lot of similarities with Reign, but both shows focus on women’s empowerment.
2. The Serpent Queen (2022-)
Stream on Roku Channel and Starz
The Serpent Queen follows the story of Catherine de’ Medici as she gets married and climbs the ranks in the French monarchy. Despite using her strength and intelligence to rule the kingdom, she faces constant targeting and is portrayed as a villain due to her significant power.
Even though Reign and The Serpent Queen are about different rulers, they have some things in common. Francis II is the son of Queen Catherine de’ Medici and is married to Mary Queen of Scots. Apart from this historical connection, both shows focus on women’s empowerment in a system ruled by men. If you want something more somber than Reign, The Serpent Queen would be a good choice.
3. Leonardo (2021-Present)
Stream on Amazon Prime Video
Leonardo explores the journey of Leonardo DaVinci, an art apprentice who gains immense fame later in his life. Leonardo finds himself caught in a love triangle with Salai and Caterina da Cremona. Trouble arises when Leonardo is accused of Caterina’s murder.
Both Leonardo and Reign share similar main characters, with Leonardo and Mary Queen of Scots facing conflicts between their feelings and duties. They both try to keep up a perfect image and hide their secrets behind a façade. However, Leonardo is slightly different from Reign when it comes to highlighting nobility. Leonardo gives a glimpse into the lives and struggles of artists in the 1400s, instead of focusing on the royal family.
4. Outlander (2014-)
Stream on Starz and Netflix
Outlander is a popular historical romance series adapted from Diana Gabaldon’s novels. It follows the story of Claire Randall, a former WWII English Army nurse. After traveling back in time to 1743, Claire joins Scottish rebels for survival and enters into a marriage of convenience with Jamie Fraser. Despite its initial nature, their relationship blossoms into a passionate romance. The couple faces numerous challenges, including the American Revolutionary War and the Jacobite Rebellion, leading to multiple separations.
Fans who appreciate Reign might like Outlander because of the similarities between the two shows. Both series have a storyline that is driven by strong-willed women. Outlander depicts a robust sexual relationship between Jamie and Claire, with more steamy scenes compared to Reign. For those wanting a break from strict historical narratives and a mix of adventures, kilts, and steamy scenes, Outlander serves as the perfect choice.
5. Bridgerton (2020-Present)
Stream on Netflix
The story of Bridgerton is set in England a few decades after the American Revolution, during the Regency period when King George III was considered too unwell to rule. From 1811 to 1820, his son acted as regent. This era, known as “le bon ton,” was a time of wealth, peace, and romance in England’s high society.
This show is based on Julia Quinn’s novels and revolves around the eight Bridgerton siblings and their romantic escapades. The first season focuses on the eldest daughter, Daphne, and the Duke, Simon Basset. In the second season, the spotlight shifts to the oldest brothers, Anthony, and Kate Sharma. The show stands out with its intense moments, colorblind casting, and modern music leading to some captivating romantic scenes. If you are in the mood for something daring, Bridgerton is for you.
6. The Spanish Princess (2019-2020)
Stream on Roku Channel and Starz
The story of the Spanish Princess is based on the novels “The King’s Curse” and “The Constant Princess” by Philippa Gregory. It narrates the life of Catherine of Aragon, the daughter of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand of Spain. Catherine was promised to Arthur, the future English Tudor King, from a young age. But their plans take a tragic turn when Arthur passes away after their wedding.
In the quest to become the Queen of England, Catherine gets involved with Harry, the younger brother of Arthur, who later becomes King Henry VIII. In this series, Margaret Beaufort is a significant character. The storyline is enriched with character narratives and development from “The White Princess,” and “The White Queen.” The Spanish Princess spans two seasons, covering approximately 25 years and concluding as King Henry VIII’s attention shifts from Catherine to Anne Boleyn.
7. The Crown (2016-2023)
Stream on Netflix
If you haven’t tuned into The Crown, you are missing out on some fascinating royal drama. This series centered on Queen Elizabeth II kicked off in 2016. It showcases a young Princess Elizabeth and her coronation in 1952. Although Reign and The Crown share some similarities, the latter distinguishes itself by focusing on more recent events in British history.
Despite the difference, both shows revolve around powerful women leaders. The Crown explores the sexual liberation of characters like Princess Anne, and Princess Margaret. Both series embrace the complexities of life, acknowledging messiness as an inherent aspect. The Crown stands out with its serious atmosphere, raising the dramatic stakes.
8. The Last Kingdom (2015-2022)
Stream on Netflix
The Last Kingdom is based on Bernard Cornwell’s Saxon Stories books. The story revolves around Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon nobleman’s son raised by Danish Vikings. His life is dedicated to avenging his Viking father and reclaiming the lands his uncle took from him. Set between 866 and 920+, the series delves into the conflict between the Danes and Saxons.
Similar to Mary Queen of Scots in Reign, Uhtred grapples with loyalties to both Saxons and Danes. The Last Kingdom also depicts the reigns of various monarchs like Edward the Elder, Alfred the Great, and Athelstan, working to unite England. While it features some romantic elements, the primary focus lies on politics and war. This makes it a compelling watch for those who enjoy action-packed TV shows.
