Royal historical dramas have a magnetic pull, especially when they center on powerful women. From Victoria to The Crown, the genre has delivered countless memorable portrayals. But one series that often flies under the radar is The White Princess, a Starz miniseries that first aired in 2017. Anchored by a breakout performance from Jodie Comer, this eight-episode saga is a compact, addictive watch that deserves a spot on your weekend binge list.
Comer, who later won an Emmy for Killing Eve, plays Elizabeth of York, known as Lizzie. The series dramatizes her forced marriage to Henry VII (Jacob Collins-Levy) and the political earthquake it causes. Based on Philippa Gregory's novel of the same name, The White Princess is a standalone entry in Starz's collection of Gregory adaptations, which also includes The White Queen and The Spanish Princess. You don't need to have seen the others to dive in—though once you start, you may want to watch them all.
What is 'The White Princess' about?
Set in 1485, the story opens in the aftermath of the Wars of the Roses, the long and bloody conflict between the houses of Lancaster and York. Henry Tudor has claimed the English throne, and to solidify his rule, he marries Lizzie, a Yorkist princess. The union is meant to heal a fractured kingdom, but neither party is happy about it. Lizzie and Henry begin their marriage as bitter enemies, each scheming to protect their own interests. That tension—two people forced into intimacy while secretly working against each other—gives the series its electric charge.
The intrigue doesn't stop with the couple. Their mothers, Margaret Beaufort (Michelle Fairley) and Elizabeth Woodville (Essie Davis), are relentless in their own agendas. Margaret is determined to eliminate any threat to her son's crown, while Elizabeth Woodville plots to reclaim power for her family. Lizzie is caught in the crossfire, especially as her feelings for Henry evolve and her children become heirs to the throne. The emotional stakes rise with every episode, making the political maneuvering all the more gripping.
Performances that elevate the drama
What truly sets The White Princess apart is its cast. Comer delivers a nuanced turn as Lizzie, capturing both vulnerability and steel. It's easy to see why this role was a launching pad for her career. Fairley and Davis are equally commanding, turning their scenes into masterclasses of quiet menace. Collins-Levy brings surprising depth to Henry, a man torn between duty and desire. The supporting players, including Rebecca Benson as Lizzie's gentle cousin Maggie and Patrick Gibson as the tragic pretender Perkin Warbeck, add further richness.
If you're looking for another historical drama to fill the void after The White Princess, consider HBO's epic fantasy His Dark Materials or the crime thriller Ringer starring Sarah Michelle Gellar. Both offer strong female leads and addictive storylines.
Why it's worth your weekend
At just eight episodes, The White Princess is a quick but satisfying watch. The series balances historical accuracy with dramatic license, painting a vivid picture of a paranoid, treacherous era. The pacing never drags, and the twists keep coming. Whether you're a history buff or simply love a good political thriller, this miniseries delivers. It's the kind of show that hooks you from the first episode and leaves you wanting more—even though the story is complete.
So if you're planning your next binge, don't overlook this gem. The White Princess is a royal treat that proves Jodie Comer was destined for stardom. Stream it on Starz and prepare to be captivated.
