Kate O'Flynn has become the breakout star of the year thanks to her unforgettable performance as Patricia in Apple TV+'s horror-comedy Widow's Bay. But before she was dodging supernatural threats on a cursed New England island, she was playing a very different kind of royal in Prime Video's short-lived fantasy romance My Lady Jane. While Widow's Bay might be too spooky for some, My Lady Jane offers a perfect blend of historical fiction, comedy, romance, and fantasy that makes it endlessly rewatchable.
A Fresh Take on History
My Lady Jane reimagines the brief reign of Lady Jane Grey, the infamous "Nine Day Queen." In this alternate history, Jane (Emily Bader) and her husband Guildford (Edward Bluemel) escape their tragic fate. When her cousin King Edward (Jordan Peters) dies, Jane is thrust onto the throne, skipping over his sisters Mary and Elizabeth. The series keeps the 1550s setting but injects a modern sensibility with witty narration and pop culture nods to classics like The Goonies and The Princess Bride. It also introduces Ethians, a subjugated class of shapeshifters, adding a fantasy twist to the political intrigue.
O'Flynn's Villainous Turn
O'Flynn plays Princess Mary, the central antagonist. She's ruthless, scheming to poison her brother and usurp Jane's rule. Her portrayal is a far cry from Patricia's awkward charm—Mary is confident, manipulative, and utterly unhinged, with a disdain for bathing and a deep prejudice against Ethians. This role showcases O'Flynn's incredible range, proving she can handle both comedic awkwardness and dramatic villainy with equal skill.
Why It's Worth Revisiting
Despite its critical acclaim and a 95% Rotten Tomatoes score, My Lady Jane was canceled after just eight episodes. But that doesn't diminish its appeal. The chemistry between Bader and Bluemel is electric, delivering a romance that rivals Bridgerton. The show's clever blend of genres keeps it fresh, and O'Flynn's performance is a standout. For fans of Widow's Bay's second season, this is a perfect way to see O'Flynn in a different light.
If you're looking for more fantasy gems, check out our list of the best fantasy miniseries. And for those who love a good underrated fantasy, The Dragon Prince is another hidden treasure.
While Widow's Bay has been renewed for a second season, My Lady Jane remains a one-season wonder. But that doesn't make it any less worthy of your time. O'Flynn's performance as Mary is a masterclass in playing a villain you love to hate, and the show's unique take on history is both entertaining and thought-provoking. So if you're ready to step away from the scares and dive into a witty, romantic, and fantastical reimagining, give My Lady Jane a chance. You won't regret it.
