10 Must-Watch Shows Similar to The Winter King for Season 2 Anticipation

Beware: Spoilers for The Winter King season 1 ahead! Now that season 1 of The Winter King has concluded, there are several other shows that can satisfy your craving for historical drama with a touch of fantasy while you patiently wait for season 2. Based on Bernard Cornwell's The Warlord Chronicles, The Winter King aimed to present a more realistic version of the King Arthur legend, with both the novels and the MGM+ adaptation downplaying the fantasy elements in favor of an origin story grounded in historical accuracy.

With the exception of Clive Owen's King Arthur movie in 2004, The Winter King stands as the darkest interpretation of the myth thus far. Season 1 covered most of the first novel, although it omitted important characters like Lancelot and key battle sequences. If season 2 of The Winter King goes forward, it can delve into the remaining storylines left out in the first season, as well as incorporate events from Cornwell's sequel novel, Enemy of God. While another season has yet to be officially confirmed, there are plenty of other exceptional shows that can fill the void until season 2 of The Winter King arrives.

10. Game Of Thrones

HBO Original Series

Game Of Thrones

Release Date: April 11, 2011

Cast: Emilia Clarke, Lena Headey, Richard Madden, Michelle Fairley, Kit Harington, Maisie Williams, Alfie Allen, Peter Dinklage

Genres: Drama, Action, Adventure

Seasons: 8

One show that undeniably gives off Winter King vibes is Game of Thrones itself. HBO's epic saga ran for eight seasons and not only popularized the fantasy genre among wider audiences but also set new standards for cinematic storytelling on television. With its remarkable ensemble cast, compelling characters, a blend of fantasy and gritty storytelling, as well as breathtaking setpieces, Game of Thrones has undoubtedly made a significant impact. While the final two seasons were somewhat divisive, Game of Thrones is still recognized as one of the most important shows of the 21st century.

Where to Watch Game of Thrones

9. Outlander

Starz

Outlander

Release Date August 9, 2014Cast Caitriona Balfe, Sam Heughan, Sophie Skelton, Richard Rankin, Duncan Lacroix, Graham McTavish, John BellGenres Romance, Sci-Fi, DramaSeasons 7

To watch Outlander, you can find it on various streaming platforms and channels.

8. The Last Kingdom

BBC/Netflix

The Last Kingdom is a historical drama action series that premiered on October 5, 2015. It stars Alexander Dreymon, Emily Cox, Ian Hart, Eliza Butterworth, Eva Birthistle, Mark Rowley, Cavan Clerkin, Tobias Santelmann, and David Dawson. The series has a total of five seasons.

The Last Kingdom is an adaptation of the novels by Bernard Cornwell, the author of Winter King. It centers around Uthred (played by Alexander Dreymon), who was born a Saxon but raised by Danes. As the series progresses, Uthred finds himself torn between his two identities, while also playing a crucial role in defending the kingdom of Wessex from Viking raiders who aim to conquer England.

In many ways, The Last Kingdom can be described as a Game of Thrones without the elements of fantasy. Both the series and its upcoming Netflix movie, Seven Kings Must Die, have received high praise from critics. Additionally, The Last Kingdom boasts a grandeur and magnitude that was regrettably absent in the first season of Winter King.

Where to watch The Last Kingdom

7. Black Sails

Starz

Black Sails

Release Date January 25, 2014Cast Toby Stephens, Hannah NewGenres AdventureSeasons 4

Black Sails, an exciting Starz historical epic set in the 18th century West Indies, centers around clashes between pirates and British forces. Acting as a prequel to Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island, the show breaks away from the typical lighthearted coming-of-age adventure. While the first season had a mixed reception, it significantly improved as it progressed, captivating viewers with the thrilling escapades of its band of anti-heroes. With only four seasons and a total of 38 episodes, Black Sails doesn't require a significant time commitment.

6. Camelot

Starz

Starz also has its own version of the King Arthur legend. In this adaptation, Jamie Campbell Bower (known for his role as Vecna in Stranger Things) takes on the role of Arthur. The supporting cast includes Eva Green as his sister Morgan and Joseph Fiennes as Merlin. Similar to Winter King, Camelot offers a fresh perspective on the King Arthur tale by focusing on a younger Arthur who is suddenly thrust into a position of authority following his father's death. The show is visually impressive and features a talented ensemble cast, although it unfortunately only lasted for one season.

Where to watch Camelot

5. Britannia

Sky/Amazon Prime

You can watch Britannia on various streaming platforms.

4. Vikings

The History Channel

Vikings

Release Date March 3, 2013Cast Travis Fimmel, Katheryn Winnick, Gustaf Skarsgård, Jessalyn Gilsig, Clive Standen, George BlagdenGenres History, Drama, ActionSeasons 6

Vikings, a rival to Game of Thrones, managed to stand on its own and became a successful drama series on the History Channel. The show revolves around the thrilling exploits of Ragnar Lodbrok (played by Travis Fimmel) and his descendants. Like Black Sails, Vikings is an impressive saga that improves with each season. Although it can be a violent and uncompromising journey, it offers captivating characters and breathtaking scenery. Netflix continued the Viking's legacy with a sequel show called Valhalla, which premiered in 2022 after the original Vikings concluded with six seasons.

Where to watch Vikings

3. Rome

HBO

Rome is a forerunner to the lavish historical dramas and fantasy adventures that came after, such as Game of Thrones. Similar to the latter, it boasts an extensive ensemble cast depicting Rome's transition from a Republic to an Empire. Ray Stevenson and Kevin McKidd, both exceptional actors, portray the two main Roman soldiers that viewers primarily follow. However, despite receiving highly positive reviews and ratings, Rome unfortunately only lasted for two seasons due to the high production costs associated with it.

Where can one watch Rome?

2. The White Queen

BBC

The White Queen

Release Date: June 16, 2016

Cast: Aneurin Barnard, Rebecca Ferguson, Max Irons, Amanda Hale

Seasons: 1

Despite its grand source material, The Winter King pleasantly surprised viewers with its understated and subtle approach in its first season, resembling more of a political drama. History enthusiasts who appreciate a lack of violence and weaponry will find The White Queen highly recommendable. Set in 15th century England during the War of the Roses, the show showcases the power struggles of three women played by Rebecca Ferguson, Faye Marsay, and Amanda Hale. Originally intended as a standalone miniseries, The White Queen spawned two spinoffs: The White Princess and The Spanish Princess.

Where to watch The White Queen

1. Sharpe

ITV

Sharpe, a series created by Cornwell, follows the story of the protagonist, Sharpe, portrayed by Sean Bean, during the Napoleonic Wars. This highly popular show not only propelled Bean to fame but also captivated audiences from 1993 to 2008. Contrary to popular belief, Sharpe does not meet his demise in the final episode. Similar to Cornwell's other works, Sharpe takes viewers on an exhilarating journey through British history, combining thrilling action sequences with elements of romance. Wondering where you can watch Sharpe?

Editor's P/S

As a fan of historical dramas and fantasy shows, I am eagerly anticipating the second season of The Winter King. While we wait for its return, there are several other captivating shows that can provide a similar viewing experience.

One standout show is Game of Thrones, which offers a grand and epic scale, complex characters, and a blend of fantasy and political intrigue. Despite its divisive final seasons, Game of Thrones remains a landmark series that has left a lasting impact on the television landscape. Another excellent option is The Last Kingdom, which is based on the same author's novels as The Winter King. This series delves into the conflicts between Saxons and Danes in medieval England, delivering thrilling action sequences and compelling character development.

Overall, there are many exciting shows that can satisfy fans of The Winter King while we wait for season 2. Whether you prefer epic battles, political maneuvering, or a mix of fantasy and history, there is something for everyone among these recommendations.