8 Shows Like Outlander You Love to Watch
If you’re a fan of Outlander and love time travel, historical romance, and compelling storylines, then you’re in luck! Here are some series that have captivating elements similar to Outlander that you will also enjoy.
The eight series like Outlander that you will love are:
8 Shows Like Outlander:
1. Reign
If you like historical dramas with a combination of romance, intrigue, and political maneuvering, then Reign is for you! Set in the 16th century, the series follows Mary, Queen of Scots, as she navigates love and power in the treacherous world of the French court. Since its 2013 premiere, Reign has built a dedicated fan base with its captivating story and beautiful visuals.
The series begins with Mary, at 15, traveling to the French court to marry Prince Francis and comply with her king’s decree to formally consummate the marriage. Mary must learn the rules and customs of the new court as an at-home queen, but quickly discovers that the court is filled with dangerous secrets, ruthless competitors, and vicious plots. The first is Francis, who is unhappy with his new role as Francis I and longs to be free of the shackles of marriage. Mary must find her footing in a new land, a new court, and a treacherous game of love and politics.
“Reign” uniquely combines fact and fiction by interspersing actual events with made-up events throughout the entire series. The show can transport viewers to the time period, even when it isn’t always historically accurate. The opulent costumes and sets, along with the amazing cinematography, make you feel as though you’ve been transported to the French court.
One of the strongest suits of “Reign” is the well-developed characters. Mary Stuart, played by Adelaide Kane, is determined and strong, overcoming many hurdles with dignity and grace. Mary’s relationships with Francis (Toby Regbo), her ladies-in-waiting, and other members of the court help move the story along and add depth and complexity. The program gives us a Catherine de’ Medici, portrayed by Megan Follows, who is a powerful, manipulative character and the Queen Mother of France.
2. Vikings
The Vikings television series has taken the world by storm with its thrilling plot and epic action scenes. Now is the best time to watch this enormous historical drama if you haven’t before. For your convenience, here is a synopsis of the entire Vikings series:
Michael Hirst’s Vikings series, which debuted in 2013, has quickly become one of the most popular modern historical dramas. Set in the eighth and eleventh centuries, the series follows the legendary Norse hero Ragnar Lothbrok as he transforms from a simple farmer and prowling Viking warrior into a king.
The show prides itself on a gritty, realistic depiction of Vikings and their not-so-glorified raids, wars, and politics. It focuses on loyalty and honor, as well as clashes between different civilizations and authorities.
Travis Fimmel’s portrayal of Ragnar Lothbrok deserves the spotlight as the best performance in the series. A charismatic rule-breaker with an inquisitive nature, Ragnar is a Viking warrior driven by ambition and a passion for exploration. As a result, he earns the respect and recognition as a great warrior.
The series is equally focused on Ragnar’s family, and Katheryn Winnick plays Lagertha, Ragnar’s first wife and one of the most prominent characters as a shieldmaiden. The series adds depth throughout the characters’ relationship and eventual separation
3. Timeless
Fans of drama, adventure,, and the juxtaposition of science fiction with historical events willenjoys Timeless. It tells the story of a group that embarks on a time-traveling mission to alter or prevent some ofhistory’se most pivotal events. This fantasy drama has captured viewers’ hearts with its captivating plot and well-developed characters.
In “Timeless,” Goran Visnjic’s character, Garcia Flynn, steals a time machine and becomes the focus of a mission to stop him from changing world events. An unlikely team composed of scientist Rufus Carlin (Malcolm Barrett), soldier Wyatt Logan (Matt Lanter), and historian Lucy Preston (Abigail Spencer) is formed to take down Flynn. The team must overcome several challenges and meet many significant historical figures as they travel through time to catch Flynn.
What sets “Timeless” apart from other time-travel shows is its dedication to historical accuracy. Each episode takes the audience on a tour of a specific era. The show effortlessly weaves fiction and fact into an enjoyable learning experience.
Another strength of the show is the character development. The time-travel nexus the team finds itself in pushes them to grow both personally and as a team. The show balances the trio’s different areas of knowledge and viewpoints, which keeps the audience engaged.
The team members’ relationships evolve and deepen as they overcome personal problems that arise during their adventures, helping the audience relate to and cheer for the characters.
4. The Spanish Princess
If you like historical dramas, you will love “The Spanish Princess.” Based on the books “The Constant Princess” and “The King’s Curse” by Philippa Gregory, this series shows the turbulent years of Tudor England.
Set in the early 16th century, “The Spanish Princess” follows Catherine of Aragon, a young Spanish princess set to marry King Henry VIII, as the first of his many wives. The series shows Catherine’s victories and struggles in love and politics.
“The Spanish Princess” stands apart from other series for its commitment to historical accuracy. The series transports audiences to the Tudor era with stunning costumes and sets. The series also shows the decade’s political turmoil, including the rivalries between Spain and England and the conflicts of royal marriages.
What makes “The Spanish Princess” so captivating is its strong character work. Charlotte Hope plays Catherine of Aragon with commitment, showing audiences a strong woman who refuses to be defined by her circumstances. The series also features Henry VIII, played by Ruairi O’Connor, and Catherine’s close friend Lina de Cardonnes, played by Stephanie Levi-John, who gives her supporting role real depth.
Beyond its great storytelling and colorful characters, The Spanish Princess tackles themes of empowerment and feminism. Catherine of Aragon is a figure viewers can look up to, as she shows great determination and will as she works to keep her position and secure her daughter’s future.
5. A Discovery of Witches
A Discovery of Witches is a fantasy, romantic, paranormal series and a fantastic read. Deborah Harkness’s trilogy has exploded in popularity, both literarily and in television, and is sure to captivate you as well.
The first book introduces Diana Bishop, a historian and reluctant witch who has spent her life avoiding and rejecting her supernatural abilities. While researching in the Bodleian Library in Oxford, Diana finds an enchanted text and, against her will, sets in motion a series of events that place her in the world of witches, vampires, and daemons.
In this new world of danger and the supernatural, Diana is assisted by Matthew Clairmont, a vampire of great power and charm. Against their will, they develop feelings for each other as they work to uncover the text’s secrets and hidden knowledge.
Diana and Matthew travel back in time to Elizabethan England in book two, Shadow of Night, to find a powerful witch tutor to help Diana enhance her magical abilities. While living in sixteenth-century London, they encounter a plethora of colorful and dangerous characters, including William Shakespeare and Queen Elizabeth I. The further they travel through time, the more challenges and threats they face to their love and lives.
The series ends with The Book of Life. Diana and Matthew return to the present, where they face the daemons, vampires, and witches about to engage in battle. They must confront their deepest fears and make the most painful sacrifices to protect the future they want for all and bring peace to the world.
6. Bridgerton
Fans of historical dramas, especially those with intrigue and a mix of romance and scandal, will enjoy the Bridgerton series. This Netflix original series, set in 19th-century England during the Regency period, captures viewers with gorgeous costumes, engaging characters, and charming love stories. If you want to learn more about the Bridgerton series or need a refresher, keep reading!
The Bridgerton series adapts Julia Quinn’s popular books and follows a family of eight children as they navigate London high society. Each season focuses on a different child as they search for love while confronting society’s restrictions.
Audience members are immediately transported to a world of extravagant parties and balls where status and reputation are all that matter. The series offers a look at the Regency period, the rigid constraints of the aristocracy, and their opulent way of life.
Julie Andrews’s mysterious, all-knowing Lady Whistledown is the heart of the series. Each episode features Lady Whistledown, a gossip columnist who writes about the elite and their scandals. To keep the public interested, she writes secretly. Andrews’ witty one-liners keep the plots compelling.
One of the series’ most important aspects is its intentional, robust casting. The creators take a color-blind approach to reimagining the Regency period and give important roles to actors from all ethnic backgrounds. This brings a new dimension to the period piece and gives the story a new perspective on representation.
7. Dickinson
The award-winning series “Dickinson” offers a modern, unique take on the life of the legendary poet Emily Dickinson. This Apple TV+ original, created by Alena Smith, offers a new interpretation of the historical figure by blending modern storytelling and themes with accurate historical information.
One of the hallmarks of “Dickinson” is the merging of the Victorian age with the contemporary age. The show breaks the fourth wall, uses contemporary music and language, and touches on queer themes. These creative choices let the show explore a wide range of themes, including social constraints and the artist’s plight.
Even though it is a period piece, “Dickinson” offers an original take on biographical storytelling. The show centers Dickinson’s life to explore social and political ideas that remain relevant today, including the confines of social structures, gender inequality, and the frustrations of artistic expression.
8. 1899
Set in the late 1800s, The 1899 Series follows a cast of disparate characters as they make the treacherous transatlantic voyage from Europe to America. The series is the brainchild of Baran bo Odar and Jantje Friese.
At the start of the series, passengers board unaware of the bizarre events awaiting them. Gradually, the crew and passengers start to doubt their sanity as strange occurrences happen on the ship. The unknown phenomena will eventually test the limits of the passengers and the crew.
The 1899 series stands out for its unique blend of genres. With science fiction, horror, and historical drama, the series stays entertaining and captivating. The series raises questions about morality, identity, and other philosophical themes, which gives it depth and adds humor.
The international cast of the 1899 series brings a variety of performances and viewpoints to the screen, and their chemistry and exchanges add dimension to their likable, engaging characters.
The 1899 Series immerses the audience in the late 1800s with its production design and cinematography. The sets, along with natural effects, draw the audience into the show’s atmospheric, eerie world.
Conclusion
These eight series will keep you engaged with their Outlander-esque storytelling, whether you prefer epic romances, time travel, or historical settings. So pop some popcorn, get comfy, and prepare to be transported.
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