Victoria is a British historical television series that aired on ITV from 2016 to 2019, also widely available on PBS Masterpiece in the US and now streaming on platforms like Netflix. Created and primarily written by novelist Daisy Goodwin, the show chronicles the early years of Queen Victoria’s reign, blending lavish period drama, political intrigue, and heartfelt romance.
The series stars Jenna Coleman in a standout performance as the young Queen Victoria. At just 18 years old, Victoria ascends to the throne in 1837 after the death of her uncle, King William IV. Coleman portrays her as headstrong, emotional, and determined to assert her independence from the controlling influences around her, including her mother and advisors. Her transition from a sheltered princess to a confident monarch is compelling and believable, earning widespread praise for its nuance and charm.
Tom Hughes plays Prince Albert, Victoria’s German cousin and eventual husband. Introduced in the first season’s later episodes, their courtship and marriage become the emotional core of the show. The on-screen chemistry between Coleman and Hughes is electric, capturing the real-life passion of one of history’s most enduring royal love stories. Their relationship evolves from initial resistance to deep partnership, with Albert emerging as a progressive influence on Victoria’s rule.
The cast is rounded out by strong supporting performances, including Rufus Sewell as the charismatic Prime Minister Lord Melbourne (Victoria’s early mentor and confidant), and a host of familiar faces in roles depicting court life, servants, and political figures.
Plot Overview Season 1 (8 episodes) focuses on Victoria’s accession, her close bond with Lord Melbourne, scandals like the Lady Flora Hastings affair, her meeting with Albert, their whirlwind romance, marriage in 1840, and the birth of their first child. Season 2 explores the challenges of marriage, parenthood, and growing political responsibilities amid events like the Chartist movement and the Irish potato famine. Season 3 delves into family life, Albert’s declining health, and Victoria’s evolving role as a mother and empress, culminating in emotional farewells.
The show emphasizes Victoria’s personal growth, her loving but sometimes stormy marriage to Albert, and the tension between royal duty and private desires. While it takes some dramatic liberties for storytelling (as many historical dramas do), it remains rooted in key real events and personalities.
Production and Reception Victoria is visually stunning, with exquisite costumes, grand locations (including recreated Buckingham Palace interiors), beautiful cinematography, and a sweeping score that enhances the romantic and dramatic tone. It often draws comparisons to The Crown or Downton Abbey, but stands out for its focus on a younger, more passionate queen and its soapy yet elegant blend of history and emotion.
Critics gave it generally positive reviews, with an 87% Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes (based on aggregated critic consensus) and strong audience approval around 83%. Viewers and reviewers frequently highlight Jenna Coleman’s transformative performance, the gorgeous production values, and the addictive romance between Victoria and Albert. Some note occasional historical simplifications or melodramatic moments, but overall, it’s seen as entertaining Sunday-night viewing—light, glamorous, and emotionally engaging.
If you’re a fan of period dramas like Bridgerton, The Crown, or Poldark, Victoria delivers similar pleasures with a fresh royal perspective. It’s a perfect mix of history, romance, and drama—highly recommended for anyone seeking an immersive escape into 19th-century Britain. Have you watched it yet, or are you planning to start?