In a sea of sprawling, intense fantasy TV series, it's easy to overlook a hidden gem that offers something completely different. Enter Galavant, a 2015 musical comedy that combines the self-aware wit of Monty Python with the fairy-tale tropes of The Princess Bride. Despite its short run, this series has become a cult classic for those lucky enough to discover it.
The show follows the titular knight, Galavant (Joshua Sasse), who has given up on life after his true love, Madalena (Mallory Jansen), rejects him to marry the powerful King Richard (Timothy Omundson) for ambition rather than love. A year later, Princess Isabella (Karen David) seeks his help to reclaim her kingdom from Richard, offering Galavant a chance at revenge and possibly winning back Madalena. But nothing is as it seems, and the journey is filled with tournaments, pirates, and shocking twists.
What sets Galavant apart is its unapologetic humor. The show relentlessly parodies fairy-tale and musical conventions, with characters acknowledging the absurdities of their medieval lives. This self-awareness, combined with hilarious cameos from the likes of "Weird Al" Yankovic, Kylie Minogue, and Ricky Gervais, keeps the audience laughing throughout. The music, composed by Disney legend Alan Menken, adds another layer of charm.
Despite its brilliance, Galavant was canceled after just two seasons. The creators, anticipating this, wrapped up Season 2 with a satisfying conclusion, though they left room for more. Unfortunately, the series isn't available on major streaming platforms (only for digital purchase), which has kept it from reaching a wider audience. For fans of underrated fantasy, it's a hidden gem worth seeking out.
If you enjoy shows that blend humor and fantasy, you might also appreciate Doom Patrol or the animated gem Forgotten Animated Gems. Galavant remains a must-watch for anyone craving a lighthearted, musical fantasy adventure.
