The Ultimate Guide to the Greatest Historical TV Shows Ever!

Historical TV series, whether set in the distant past or the 20th century, continue to be a widely popular genre, offering a wide range of stories to captivate viewers. Period dramas and comedies provide a glimpse into the challenges, tragedies, and triumphs of the past, often with meticulous attention to historical accuracy. Some shows are based on real individuals, while others revolve around original characters. Occasionally, these series are embellished for added intrigue and tension, which may not sit well with staunch history enthusiasts, but most viewers are satisfied if the alterations enhance the overall story.

The best historical TV series walk a delicate line between delivering an engrossing narrative and preserving a sense of authenticity. This often places limitations on networks and showrunners, making them less popular when compared to more fantastical productions. However, the immensely successful Vikings and enthralling romantic dramas like Bridgerton demonstrate that top-notch historical series can come in various forms. In recent years, there has been a surge in exceptionally well-crafted historical retellings, offering fans everything they desire in these grand tales.

25 Outlander (2014- )

Outlander

Release Date August 9, 2014Cast Caitriona Balfe, Sam Heughan, Sophie Skelton, Richard Rankin, Duncan Lacroix, Graham McTavish, John BellSeasons 7

Outlander, adapted from Diana Gabaldon's novels, follows the journey of Claire, a World War II nurse who finds herself accidentally transported to the Highlands in 1743. In this new time period, Claire crosses paths with Jamie Fraser, and their love blossoms as they are forced to marry in order to protect Claire from the treacherous Black Jack Randall. Throughout the series, we witness various characters traveling through time, venturing through locations such as Scotland, France, the West Indies, and the North American colonies. While not completely historically accurate, the gripping storylines have propelled Outlander's immense popularity.

The Starz original series has achieved remarkable success, spanning across seven seasons with an eighth season ordered to conclude the epic tale. While the show has garnered numerous Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, it has yet to claim victory in these prestigious awards. However, it has earned praise at the Saturn Awards, securing seven wins throughout the years.

Stream now on Starz

24 Marco Polo (2014–2016)

Marco Polo

Release Date: December 12, 2014

Cast: Lorenzo Richelmy, Benedict Wong, Joan Chen

Seasons: 2

Spanning from 2014 to 2016, Marco Polo was one of Netflix's early original historical TV series. It delves into the formative years of the main character as he navigates the court of Kublai Khan. Lorenzo Richelmy takes on the titular role, while Benedict Wong (known for his work in the MCU) portrays Khan and Joan Chen (from Twin Peaks) stars as his beloved wife Empress Chabi. The show ran for two seasons and consisted of 20 episodes, along with a special episode that aired between the seasons. Initial reception was mixed, but the second season garnered critical acclaim and even received a Primetime Emmy Awards nomination for its outstanding music.

Streaming now on Netflix

23 Brittania (2017–2021)

Brittania on Prime Video stands out as one of the finest historical TV series, especially in terms of original content. Rather than offering a straightforward retelling of history, it ingeniously blends fantasy elements with the real-life events of the Roman invasion of Great Britain. While showcasing notable historical figures, the series also introduces druids and demons, effectively contributing to the captivating narrative. Moreover, Brittania is a remarkable choice for those seeking a show with a more prominent female perspective in the historical genre. The well-crafted female leads and compelling characters are evident throughout its three gripping seasons.

Stream now on Prime Video

22 The Queen’s Gambit (2020)

The Queen's Gambit

Release Date: October 23, 2020

Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Moses Ingram, Marcin Dorocinski, Akemnji Ndifornyen, Jacob Fortune-Lloyd, Rebecca Root, Christiane Seidel, Harry Melling, Patrick Kennedy, Bill Camp, Isla Johnston, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Chloe Pirrie, Marielle Heller

Seasons: 1

The Queen's Gambit is not your typical historical drama. Set in the 1950s, this Netflix series has quickly become one of the best in its genre. Anya Taylor-Joy brings Elizabeth Harmon, a talented orphaned chess prodigy, to life as she strives to excel in a male-dominated chess world. However, her journey is not without challenges, including her battle with addiction that threatens to derail her success. Garnering critical acclaim, The Queen's Gambit has earned 11 Emmy Awards out of 18 nominations and holds an impressive 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Streaming now on Netflix

21 Alias Grace (2017)

Alias Grace is ​​​​​​One of the few Netflix shows to rank at almost 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, with an equally impressive high 88% audience score.

The pedigree was there from the start, as the series was based on the novel by Margaret Atwood (author of The Handmaid's Tale). Sarah Gadon stars as Grace Marks, a woman accused of murder and held for 15 years, even after her co-conspirator was hanged. Much like Atwood's more popular adaptation, this is an equally biting social commentary and has an incredible cast, led by Gadon's electric performance as Grace.

Streaming now on Netflix

20 Knightfall (2017-2019)

knightfall

Knightfall, a critically acclaimed historical TV series set in the 14th century, made its debut on the History Channel in 2017. The show delves into the lives of the Knights Templar, with a special focus on their leader, Landry du Lauzon (played by Tom Cullen). Landry, a courageous warrior, grapples with the challenge of motivating his fellow knights despite their past setbacks. However, his spirits are reignited when whispers of the elusive Holy Grail reach his ears. Notably, the series attracted a devoted following and even featured renowned Star Wars actor Mark Hamill, adding an extra level of excitement for fans.

Streaming now on Netflix

19 The Chosen (2017- )

While Jesus Christ unquestionably takes center stage in this freely accessible show, it is the disciples and other individuals who truly illuminate this series. Viewers are exposed to transformative events including Mary Magdalene's miraculous healing, the apostles' divine calling, and Jesus's other extraordinary feats, all portrayed through the perspective of Nicodemus, Peter, Matthew, and other supporting characters. Witnessing these events from the vantage point of not only the main cast but also the peripheral figures infuses Jesus's narrative with a distinctive yet inspiring essence, thus establishing this television series as one of the finest historical depictions of biblical occurrences.

Streaming now on Prime Video

18 The Terror (2018-2019)

The Terror

Release Date: March 25, 2018

Cast: Jared Harris, Derek Mio, Tobias Menzies, Kiki Sukezane, Cristina Rodlo

Seasons: 2

The Terror, a historical horror anthology series, skillfully combines unsettling circumstances and supernatural rumors surrounding real-world events. The first season chronicles John Franklin's ill-fated expedition to discover the supposed Northwest Passage in the Arctic. In the second season, a community of Japanese prisoners in an American internment camp during World War II find themselves haunted by a supernatural entity. Though The Terror may not please those who strictly demand historical accuracy, it is sure to captivate viewers who enjoy dark and chilling tales.

Streaming now on Hulu

17 Spartacus (2010-2013)

Spartacus

Spartacus, starring Nick Tarabay, Liam McIntyre, Peter Mensah, Viva Bianca, Lucy Lawless, Andy Whitfield, and Manu Bennett, was released on January 25, 2013. It aired for three seasons on Starz and is regarded as one of the best historical TV series of the early 2010s. Set during the first century BCE, the show portrays the life of Spartacus, a Thracian gladiator who led a slave uprising and rebellion against the Romans in the early 70s BCE. Action-packed and reminiscent of films like 300 and Gladiator, Spartacus gained popularity and even received a miniseries along with two Saturn Awards.

Streaming now on Starz

16 Poldark (2015-2019)

Poldark

Poldark, a critically acclaimed historical TV series, first aired on March 8, 2015, as a part of PBS' Masterpiece lineup. Set in late 18th century Cornwall, the show is based on a novel series of the same name. Starring Aidan Turner as Ross Poldark, the storyline revolves around his miraculous return home after being presumed dead in the American Revolution. With his love engaged, his father deceased, and his property abandoned, the series delves into Poldark's challenges in reestablishing his life. Despite being underrated, this British series gained significant popularity and even won a BAFTA Award.

Streaming now on Prime Video

15 The Great (2020-2023)

The Great

The Great, a Hulu series, takes a comedic and sometimes fictional approach to the historical story of Catherine the Great. Starring Sacha Dhawan, Adam Godley, Richard Pyros, Belinda Bromilow, Elle Fanning, Gwilym Lee, Sebastian de Souza, Phoebe Fox, Charity Wakefield, Nicholas Hoult, Douglas Hodge, and Bayo Gbadamosi, it portrays Catherine's rise to power and her plot to kill her husband, Peter III. The show brilliantly exaggerates the eccentricities of Russian nobility, with Fanning and Hoult delivering standout performances. The Great has garnered critical acclaim, earning Emmy and Golden Globe nominations across its three seasons.

Streaming now on Hulu

14 The Last Kingdom (2015-2022)

The Last Kingdom

The Last Kingdom is a highly acclaimed historical TV series that premiered on October 5, 2015. Starring Alexander Dreymon, Emily Cox, Ian Hart, Eliza Butterworth, Eva Birthistle, Mark Rowley, Cavan Clerkin, Tobias Santelmann, and David Dawson, the show is based on Bernard Cornwell's The Saxon Stories novels. Originally aired on BBC America, the rights were later acquired by Netflix, which has produced all subsequent episodes. Set in the late 9th century, the series follows the story of Uhtred, a man torn between his Saxon upbringing and his Viking upbringing. As tensions escalate, Uhtred must make choices that pit his loyalty to his adoptive family against his blood ties. Despite not being an award contender, The Last Kingdom remains immensely popular and continues to captivate audiences.

Streaming now on Netflix

13 The Tudors (2007-2010)

The Tudors

The Tudors, starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Henry Cavill, and Natalie Dormer, premiered on April 1, 2007. It ran for four seasons until 2010 and originally aired on Showtime. This captivating series is now available for streaming on various platforms and is highly recommended for those interested in a scandalous and dramatic portrayal of the early reign of King Henry VIII. Known for his six wives and their tragic fates, the story primarily focuses on his rule and his relationships with Katharine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn. While the series received Emmy nominations, it unfortunately did not win any awards.

Streaming now on Showtime

12 The Borgias (2011-2013)

The Tudors

Seasons 4 of The Borgias, starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Henry Cavill, and Natalie Dormer, was released on April 1, 2007. The standout performance by Jeremy Irons as Rodrigo de Borgia/Pope Alexander VI is reason enough to watch this series. Set in Renaissance-era Italy, the show follows the rise to power and infamous deeds of the Borgia family. With its gripping plot filled with greed, intimidation, treachery, and scandal, The Borgias keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Despite the historical inaccuracies, the show's true crime and political thriller elements have earned it three Emmy Awards across its seasons.

Streaming now on Showtime

11 Call The Midwife (2012- )

Call the Midwife

Release Date: January 15, 2012

Cast: Jenny Agutter, Linda Bassett, Judy Parfitt, Helen George, Laura Main, Leonie Elliot, Stephen McGann, Vanessa Redgrave, Cliff Parisi

Number of Seasons: 12

Call the Midwife is a beloved BBC period drama set in the 1950s and 1960s. Despite being set in a relatively recent time period, it is just as captivating as historical TV series set in earlier eras. Adapted from Jennifer Worth's novels, the show follows young midwife Jenny as she embarks on a new chapter of her life working at London's Nonnatus House. Premiering in 2012, the series has amassed a dedicated fan base across its 11 seasons. While it may have missed out on Emmy awards, it has been recognized and celebrated by other esteemed organizations.

Streaming now on Netflix

10 Deadwood (2004-2006)

deadwood

Release Date: March 21, 2004

Cast: Timothy Olyphant, Ian McShane, Molly Parker

Seasons: 3

Similar to Firefly, Deadwood, which aired on HBO from 2004 to 2006, achieved cult status despite being prematurely canceled. The show revolves around the eponymous town, established in the 1870s, which existed as a lawless sanctuary for a wide range of outcasts and criminals. Anchored by the performances of Timothy Olyphant and Ian McShane, Deadwood takes inspiration from historical events to narrate epic tales involving iconic figures from the Old West, including Wyatt Earp and Calamity Jane.

Thirteen years after its cancelation, Deadwood: The Movie continued the original story. Deadwood won one Golden Glove and an Emmy as one of the best historical TV series.

Streaming now on Max

9 Boardwalk Empire (2010-2014)

Boardwalk Empire

Release Date September 19, 2010Cast Shea Whigham, Kelly Macdonald, Stephen Graham, Steve Buscemi, Michael Stuhlbarg, Michael ShannonSeasons 5

Set in Atlantic City during the Prohibition Era, Boardwalk Empire aired from 2010 to 2014. Steve Buscemi takes on the leading role as Nucky Thompson, a cunning politician who controls the city alongside mobsters operating in its murky underworld. This gripping crime drama chronicles Nucky's ascent to power in Atlantic City from the 1920s to the early 1930s, ultimately coinciding with the end of Prohibition. Loosely based on the real-life politician Enoch L. Johnson, this series garnered three Emmys and two Golden Globe Awards.

Now available for streaming on Max.

8 The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2017-2023)

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

Release Date March 17, 2017Cast Rachel Brosnahan, Kevin Pollak, Caroline Aaron, Jane Lynch, Marin Hinkle, Michael Zegen, Tony Shalhoub, Alex BorsteinSeasons 5

Streaming on Prime Video, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, released in 2017, follows the journey of a young Jewish-American housewife in 1958 New York City aspiring to become a comedian. Starring Rachel Brosnahan as Miriam "Midge" Maisel, the show has garnered critical acclaim, earning both a Golden Globe and Emmy for Brosnahan's performance. Supported by a talented cast including Alex Borstein as her manager and Tony Shalhoub as her father, the series effectively blends humor with its historical setting. With the fifth and final season airing in 2023, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel remains one of the highest-rated historical TV series, boasting five Emmy wins throughout its run.

7 Downton Abbey (2010-2015)

Downton Abbey is a film that was released on September 20, 2019. It features a talented cast including Michelle Dockery, Robert James-Collier, Elizabeth McGovern, Sophie McShera, Hugh Bonneville, Raquel Cassidy, Tuppence Middleton, Laura Carmichael, Stephen Campbell Moore, Penelope Wilton, Maggie Smith, Imelda Staunton, Allen Leech, and Joanne Froggatt.

Premiered in 2010, Downton Abbey has secured its place as one of the most successful historical TV series in British television history. It aired on ITV in the United Kingdom and PBS in the United States, captivating audiences with its stellar British cast, particularly Dame Maggie Smith's standout performance. The series is set in the fictional Yorkshire estate of Downton Abbey, portraying the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their dedicated domestic servants.

While incorporating various real-world events, it was the relatable trials and challenges faced by the beloved characters that propelled Downton Abbey to become a global phenomenon. Spanning six seasons and a movie, the show consistently drew in over 10 million viewers, with only its first season experiencing lower viewership (via Forbes).

Streaming now on Max

6 Bridgerton (2020-)

Bridgerton

Release Date: December 25, 2020

Cast: Will Tilston, Rege-Jean Page, Ruth Gemmell, Luke Thompson, Isabella Cortese, Martins Imhangbe, Julie Andrews, Phoebe Dynevor, Ruby Stokes, Ruby Barker, Claudia Jessie, Adjoa Andoh, Nicola Coughlan, Golda Rosheuvel, Charithra Chandran, Ben Miller, Jonathan Bailey, Florence Hunt, Polly Walker, Shelley Conn, Joanna Bobin, Luke Newton, Simone Ashley

Seasons: 2

Despite not receiving as many awards as other acclaimed historical TV series, Bridgerton stands out by successfully blending a modern feel with its period drama. Despite earning only one Emmy nomination across its two seasons, Bridgerton soared to success through its widespread popularity. Based on Julia Quinn's novels, the first season of the show achieved a record-breaking 625 million viewers on Netflix, making it the most-watched series in the platform's history (according to Deadline).

Streaming now on Netflix, Bridgerton's second season has not only broken records but also defied the odds of awards recognition. Despite this, the show continues to distinguish itself by redefining the historical TV genre, captivating a new generation of viewers who crave a contemporary and innovative approach to period dramas.