The Best Period Drama (and Comedy) Shows Of 2023

Updated October 29, 2023 1.1K votes 103 voters

Over 100 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of 2023 Period Shows Set in the Past

Latest additions: Fellow Travelers, The Lions of Sicily, Creature

Most divisive: Perry Mason

Even though all these shows take place in the past, the best period dramas of 2023 are fresh, relevant, and surprisingly relatable. Whether you're invested in the more historically accurate slow-movers or prefer a modern sensibility in an aesthetic package, there's definitely something for everyone on this list.

This year, Taika Waititi's adventure on the high seas Our Flag Means Death is back to more pillaging. Hulu's very loose take on Catherine The Great is also back, sure to provide more stellar performances from Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult. Other popular period dramas on this list include Bridgerton, The Gilded Age, and Vikings: Valhalla.

Vote up your favorite period comedies and dramas and be sure to come back for more additions!

Ranked by

1
The Crown
Imelda Staunton, Jonathan Pryce, Lesley Manville
52 votes
- Premiered: November 4, 2016
The Crown, a historical drama series, artfully weaves together the personal and political lives of the British monarchy. With meticulous attention to detail and an outstanding ensemble cast, it has garnered numerous accolades including Golden Globe and Emmy awards. The show delves into the reign of Queen Elizabeth II (played by Claire Foy in earlier seasons, and later Olivia Colman), capturing her struggles to balance her royal duties with her family life. The narrative seamlessly incorporates historical events, such as the Suez Crisis and the Aberfan disaster, lending authenticity and depth to the unfolding story. The Crown is a masterful exploration of power, responsibility, and tradition.
2
1923
Helen Mirren, Harrison Ford, Brandon Sklenar
32 votes
- Premiered: December 18, 2022
The Duttons face a new set of challenges in the early 20th century.
- #55 of 590
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- #11 of 982
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- #213 of 557
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#69 needs votes
Lessons In Chemistry
Brie Larson, Lewis Pullman, Aja Naomi King
4 votes
- Premiered: October 13, 2023
On a TV cooking show, Elizabeth Zott sets out to teach home cooks way more than recipes.
- #159 of 590
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3
Sanditon
Rose Williams, Anne Reid, Kris Marshall
34 votes
- Premiered: August 25, 2019
Sanditon, a period drama adapted from Jane Austen's unfinished novel, deftly explores the complexities of society and human relationships in an idyllic seaside town during the Regency era. The series, which earned BAFTA nominations for its remarkable costume design and original score, follows the spirited Charlotte Heywood (Rose Williams) as she navigates love, friendship, and ambition amidst the colorful characters that inhabit Sanditon. With a touch of wit and an air of elegance, the show masterfully captures the essence of Austen's world while carving out its own distinct narrative. From its lush cinematography to the nuanced performances, Sanditon remains a delightful addition to the realm of period dramas.
4
The Gilded Age
Christine Baranski, Cynthia Nixon, Carrie Coon
54 votes
- Premiered: January 24, 2022
Set against the opulent backdrop of 1880s New York City, The Gilded Age unravels a tale of wealth, ambition, and societal expectations. With a stellar ensemble cast, including Christine Baranski as Agnes van Rhijn and Cynthia Nixon as Ada Brook, the drama unfolds as newcomers enter the lavish world of old money aristocracy. As the characters navigate through the intricacies of high society, viewers are treated to a visual feast of extravagant costumes, grandiose sets, and an engaging storyline. Garnering praise for its production design and performances, this period drama showcases the stark contrast between the lives of the privileged elite and the less fortunate, providing a thought-provoking exploration of class and power dynamics in America's gilded past.
- #67 of 590
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- #3 of 102
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5
The Great
Elle Fanning, Nicholas Hoult, Phoebe Fox
50 votes
- Premiered: May 15, 2020
A genre-bending, anti-historical ride through 18th-century Russia.
- #15 of 982
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- #10 of 29
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6
The Empress
Devrim Lingnau, Philip Froissant, Melika Foroutan
33 votes
- Premiered: September 29, 2022
Rebellious Elisabeth marries Emperor Franz and enters a world of intrigue at the Viennese court.
- #373 of 590
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- #33 of 982
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- #385 of 557
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The Crown

1923

Lessons In Chemistry

Sanditon

The Gilded Age

The Great

The Empress