'Excellent' BBC period drama labelled 'one of the best' on AppleTV
Reach Daily Express August 15, 2025 12:39 PM

There is an abundance of options when it comes to BBC period dramas. Over the years, we've been spoilt for choice. But if you're a fan of gorgeous costumes, gripping plots, and a star-studded cast, you might want to add The White Queen to your watchlist. Premiering on the BBC in 2013, the series is an adaptation of Philippa Gregory's three historical fiction books: The White Queen, The Red Queen, and The Kingmaker's Daughter. Starting in 1464, the drama is set during the years of the Wars of the Roses, and presents the story of the women involved in the tumultuous conflict. The series was received with plenty of praise and was nominated for three Golden Globes and four Primetime Emmy Awards.

The cast is also splendid, with Rebecca Ferguson playing the lead role of Elizabeth Woodville, the wife of King Edward IV. Sherlock star Rupert Graves, Max Irons, and Janet McTeer are also included in the historical drama.

Tudor enthusiasts certainly loved the show, and the series gives a glimpse of the pretty side of late medieval England. The reviews on IMDb are generally positive overall, with one person labelling it "one of the best."

Another person commented: "This is such a wonderful story and great cast. I am captivated by it in all its aspects. I waited for a few episodes before watching, as I knew I'd love this show, and it would be in great pain for me to wait each week for the next episode. It is the most watched series of the year, for sure!" [sic]

A third also praised: "The best show. I am absolutely obsessed with this show! I love it and can not get enough! I was ify about it at first even though I always find historic shows and movies very interesting, then watched it on demand and was in amazement how fantastic it was. I am going to be upset when the season ends."

A fourth similarly echoed: "From the first 10 minutes of watching my eyes were glued to the TV. For those who want to lay back, relax and delve into a romantic drama; I would give my highest recommendation for you to watch this."

On Rotten Tomatoes, it has an impressive score of 82% and the official bio description says: "War ravages England in 1464 during a blood feud between the House of York and the House of Lancaster over who is the country's true king.

"Young Edward IV, heir to the House of York, is crowned king with help from master manipulator Lord Warwick, known as "The Kingmaker," who has a plan to control the throne. But that plan comes crashing down when Edward falls in love with Lancastrian commoner Elizabeth Woodville. A violent struggle for the crown ensues between Woodville, adversary Margaret Beaufort and Anne Neville, a pawn in her father's power game."

The White Queen is now available on AppleTV+.

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