The Enduring Popularity of Period Dramas
Historical fiction has always drawn in viewers, as seen with the many Jane Austen adaptations and the decade-long success of Outlander. The launch of Bridgerton on Netflix turned what was already a passionate fanbase into a mainstream phenomenon, prompting a boom in period dramas across streaming platforms. Netflix continues to release historical content—such as a planned Pride and Prejudice adaptation—but it's no longer the sole leader in this genre.
Looking Beyond Netflix: What M6+ Offers for Free
Period drama fans should check out M6+, the streaming service from France’s M6 network, which doesn’t require a subscription and offers a strong lineup of historical series to watch at no cost. The platform features Welcome to Sanditon, a well-received adaptation of Jane Austen’s unfinished final novel, and The Great, a dramatized take on Catherine II of Russia. But among its historical offerings, another series about a legendary queen stands out.
Victoria: A Must-See for History Lovers
Among the highlights on M6+ is Victoria, a favorite for those interested in English history and period pieces. This British drama originally aired on ITV from 2016 to 2019. It consists of three seasons, each made up of eight episodes (about 45 minutes per episode) and a Christmas special running roughly an hour and a half, situated between seasons two and three. In France, Victoria aired on multiple channels but largely flew under the radar, making now the perfect time to discover it.
Victoria tells the story of Queen Victoria’s early years on the throne, beginning with her accession at just 18 years old, on June 20, 1837. The series follows her engagement and marriage to Prince Albert, and her journey navigating the challenges of being a young monarch. Victoria was not originally destined to rule; she was fifth in the line of succession and only became queen after the deaths of all legitimate male heirs. The narrative draws on the queen’s own diaries, pulling viewers into the complex dynamics of court life and the power struggles of her era.
Reception, Ratings, and Audience Praise
While some have criticized Victoria for historical inaccuracies, the series has resonated with most viewers. According to Allociné (a French review site), Victoria earned a 4.2 out of 5—a score higher than Bridgerton's on that platform. User reactions are enthusiastic:
“Very good series!” “I was completely charmed… I love the actors, the cinematography, and the deliberate pace. Jenna Coleman is magnificent.”
“The quality of the series is undeniable.”
“Sublime series! The sets, the characters… everything is perfect. If you love history, this is a must-watch.”
“This series really drew me in… I even got a bit addicted!”
Fans continue the praise:
“An excellent series, far too underrated! The story is well crafted, the acting is fantastic, and the costumes are stunning—a must for anyone interested in historical dramas or the British monarchy!”
“A top-notch historical series that follows the life of one of England's most famous monarchs. Jenna Coleman is outstanding as Victoria.”
“As a historical drama fan, I completely fell for Victoria.”
“A real favorite!”
“I watched four episodes in a row and couldn’t stop—I loved it!”
If you’re seeking a period drama filled with royal stakes, lavish sets, and captivating intrigue (and perhaps something that could nudge Bridgerton out of your top spot), Victoria is streaming for free on M6+—waiting for its turn in the spotlight.
