The Best Historical Fiction TV Shows
This is a list of the best historical fiction series on television, ranked from best to worst. Whether historical dramas, comedies, or action shows, TV series set in real history have rich source material and great stories to tell. This list of the greatest historical fiction shows also includes pictures from the shows when available. Popular historical fiction TV series have been a staple of television for years, because we love to learn about our ancestors via a compelling narrative rather than dumb books, so there's often debate about which are the top historical fiction series of all time.
Don't let your favorite historical fiction television programs in history get to the bottom of the list- be sure to vote them up so they have the chance to reach the top spot. The list of historical fiction television shows below includes information like the program's cast, creator and premiere date when available. This list includes historical fiction TV series such as Vikings, The Tudors, Deadwood, and many other history TV shows. Just because every detail in the series isn't textbook-level accurate doesn't mean the show isn't realistic - it's historical fiction, after all. And these are the best historical fiction series of all time!
This list answers the questions, "What is the best historical fiction show of all time?" and "What are the greatest historical fiction shows?" Vote up your favorite historical fiction series and rewrite what history you want to watch.
- 1Alexander Dreymon, Emily Cox, Timothy Innes
- Premiered: October 10, 2015
- Network: BBC America, BBC Two, Netflix
Dive into the tumultuous world of 9th-century England, where the kingdom of Wessex stands alone against invading Viking forces. Through the eyes of a Saxon nobleman's son captured by Vikings, witness the clash of cultures, power plays, and the birth of a unified England. It's a bloody, thrilling journey and an education in the brutal realities of life during this time.
- 2Katheryn Winnick, Moe Dunford, Josefin Asplund
- Premiered: March 3, 2013
- Network: History
As the name suggests, this gripping series follows the legendary Norse hero, Ragnar Lothbrok, as he rises from a humble farmer to become a fearless warrior and King of the Vikings. Full of battles, conquests, and rich historical detail, this saga will transport you back to the time when gods walked among men and Valhalla awaited the bravest warriors.
- 3Cillian Murphy, Natasha O'Keeffe, Paul Anderson
- Premiered: September 12, 2013
- Network: BBC Two
Set against the gritty backdrop of post-WWI Birmingham, this intense crime drama revolves around the notorious Shelby gangster family. With Tommy Shelby at the helm, the family navigates a treacherous world of organized crime, political machinations, and shifting allegiances, all while wearing their signature newsboy caps with razor blades sewn in. It's a must-see for fans of raw, hard-hitting drama.
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- 4Caitriona Balfe, Sam Heughan, Sophie Skelton
- Premiered: August 9, 2014
- Network: Starz
Based on Diana Gabaldon's bestselling novels, this captivating series follows WWII combat nurse Claire Randall as she is mysteriously transported back to 1743 Scotland. Caught between two worlds and two men, Claire's journey through history is a breathtaking tale of passion, rebellion, and survival. You won't be able to resist getting swept up in this time-traveling romance.
- 5Jonathan Rhys-Meyers, Tamzin Merchant, Joss Stone
- Premiered: April 1, 2007
- Network: Showtime
Engross yourself in the scandalous and intriguing reign of King Henry VIII, played brilliantly by Jonathan Rhys Meyers. Follow the infamous monarch through his six marriages, tumultuous relationships, and sweeping political changes in 16th-century England. Brimming with sumptuous costumes, intriguing storylines, and a knockout cast, The Tudors is one for the history books.
- 6Jamie Bell, Seth Numrich, Daniel Henshall
- Premiered: April 6, 2014
- Network: AMC
Discover the thrilling untold story of America's first spy ring during the Revolutionary War. Amidst the chaos of a new nation on the brink of collapse, a group of childhood friends forms an intricate network of spies that turns the tide in the fight for independence. This suspense-filled drama offers a unique perspective on the birth of the United States.
