“Victoria,” about a young Queen Victoria, will air on PBS in 2017, in the timeslot currently held by “Downton Abbey,” the network announced Monday.
The series stars “Doctor Who” alum Jenna Coleman in the titular role of the English monarch.
The eight-part drama follows Victoria from the time she becomes Queen in 1837 at the age of 18, through her courtship and marriage to Prince Albert. Famous for her candor and spirit, she was the first woman who seemed to have it all: a passionate marriage, nine children, and the job of being Queen of the world’s most important nation. Victoria’s often tumultuous reign lasted for 63 years; she was England’s longest-serving monarch until she was overtaken by Elizabeth II in September 2015.
“‘Downton Abbey’ has proved that millions of viewers will turn up year after year for a beautifully-crafted period drama,” the show’s executive producer Rebecca Eaton said in a statement. “‘Victoria’ has it all: a riveting script, brilliant cast, and spectacular locations. And it’s a true story! This is exactly the kind of programming MASTERPIECE fans will love.”
“Victoria” is a co-production with Mammoth Screen for ITV and is distributed internationally by ITV Studios Global Entertainment. It was created and written by Daisy Goodwin.
The ensemble cast also includes Rufus Sewell, Tom Hughes, Alex Jennings, Paul Rhys and Peter Firth.