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8 Period Dramas To Stream If You've Already Devoured Bridgerton

8 Period Dramas To Stream If You've Already Devoured Bridgerton

From Vanity Fair to Belgravia to Colin Firth in a wet shirt.

Photo: Courtesy

If you were swept away by Netflix's Bridgerton, Shonda Rhimes' first show for the streaming service, then you're most definitely not alone. Variety reported that "Bridgerton is projected to reach 63 million households within 28 days of its Christmas Day debut," which is more than a little impressive. Considering the instant success of the Regency Era show, viewers are already desperate for a second season. While we await official confirmation of Bridgerton's renewal, here are eight shows to satiate your historical romance cravings.

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1. Downton Abbey (2010-2015)

If you've already binged all of Downton Abbey, it's probably time to watch it again. Created by Julian Fellowes, the epic drama takes place between 1912 and 1926 and follows a fictional aristocratic family in the north of England. The entire series is available to stream on Britbox, which offers a 7-day free trial, after which a subscription costs US$6.99 a month, or US$69.99 annually.

2. Pride and Prejudice (1995)

Before Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfayden stole our hearts in Joe Wright's 2005 adaptation, Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle starred in the ultimate version of Pride and Prejudice. From Firth's much-referenced wet shirt scene, which inspired Helen Fielding's Bridget Jones novels, to a seemingly insatiable sense of longing, the BBC's masterpiece has now been restored in 4K for your viewing pleasure (also on Britbox).

3. Vanity Fair (2018)

Olivia Cooke stars as Becky Sharp in this seven-part adaptation of William Makepeace Thackeray's classic novel. Cooke has been cast as Alicent Hightower in the forthcoming Game of Thrones prequel, House of the Dragon, and she previously stole the show on Bates Motel, so Vanity Fair is well worth a look.

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4. Sanditon (2019)

Adapted from Jane Austen's unfinished manuscript, Sanditon takes place in a dreamy seaside town during the Regency Era, and follows a young woman's search for love. Fans are eagerly awaiting an announcement about whether or not a second season will ever materialise, so watch at your own risk.

5. The Great (2020)

Photo: Courtesy

Photo: Courtesy

8 Period Dramas to Stream If You've Already Devoured Bridgerton

Hulu's The Great has already been renewed for a second season, meaning that we'll soon see even more of Elle Fanning as Catherine the Great, Empress of All Russia. Nicholas Hoult costars. 

6. Emma (2009)

Before Anya Taylor-Joy starred in Emma. on the big screen, Romola Garai took on the role in a four-part miniseries, alongside Jonny Lee Miller as Mr. Knightley. Quiet passion ensued.

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7. Reign (2013-2017)

If you want a juicy historical drama that's not entirely based in fact, then four seasons of Reign should do the trick. Following the exploits of Mary, Queen of Scots, Reign makes Dynasty look tame.

8. Belgravia (2020)

From the creator of Downtown Abbey comes this six-part mini-series set in 19th century London's high society. Starring Alice Eve, Philip Glenister, and Tamsin Greig, the short series explores the events that happen after the Duchess of Richmond's Ball.

This article originally appeared on Harper's BAZAAR US.

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