Mary & George

Mary & George redefined the Jacobean period drama by replacing stiff etiquette with a ruthless pursuit of social climbing. As a finished limited series, its impact lies in its unapologetic portrayal of queer power dynamics within the English court. Julianne Moore and Nicholas Galitzine delivered performances that stripped away the romanticized veneer of the 17th century, exposing the transactional nature of royal favor. The show’s legacy is found in its sharp, modern dialogue and its refusal to sanitize the manipulative schemes of the Villiers family. It remains a definitive example of how historical narratives can be both stylish and brutally honest about the costs of ambition. While the story of Mary and George has reached its conclusion, viewers should set a reminder for any potential news regarding future period anthologies or creative spin-offs.