The Royals (2015)

As E! Network’s inaugural scripted drama, The Royals redefined the "guilty pleasure" for a new generation. By casting Elizabeth Hurley as the icy Queen Helena, the series merged Shakespearean power struggles with high-fashion tabloid excess. Its legacy is found in its fearless commitment to camp and its ability to turn the British Monarchy into a playground of stylized anarchy. While the show concluded abruptly after four seasons, it paved the way for reality-centric networks to explore scripted storytelling. The series remains a cult favorite, remembered for its sharp wit and unapologetic melodrama. Fans should set a notification for any sudden casting news or streaming updates; in the current landscape of revivals, the Henstridge reign may not be permanently over.