Catherine the Great (2019)

The 2019 miniseries Catherine the Great remains a definitive peak in the era of prestige historical television. Starring the incomparable Helen Mirren, the production moved beyond the typical origin story to explore the Empress’s seasoned, politically complex final years. Its legacy lies in its refusal to simplify the power dynamics of the Russian court, focusing instead on the intellectual partnership with Grigory Potemkin. By prioritizing political maneuvering over mere scandal, the show redefined how modern audiences view the enlightenment-era autocrat. It remains a high-water mark for Sky Atlantic, proving that mature, dialogue-heavy dramas can command global attention and sustain academic interest. As television continues to revisit the Romanov dynasty, set a reminder for any future announcements regarding potential spin-offs, revivals, or news.