Premiered: May 4, 2023

On: Netflix

Starring: India Amarteifio, Adjoa Andoh, Michelle Fairley, Ruth Gemmell, Corey Mylchreest, Golda Rosheuvel, Arsema Thomas, Sam Clemmett, Freddie Dennis, Hugh Sachs, Tunji Kasim, Cyril Nri, Peyvand Sadeghian, Ryan Gage, Joshua Riley, Jack Michael Stacey, Seamus Dillane, Eliza Capel, Neil Edmond, Richard Cunningham, Connie Jenkins-Greig, Guy Henry, Keir Charles & Julie Andrews

Focusing on the early lives of two historical characters, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story gives fan of the series a perfect spin-off.

In 1761, a young Charlotte (India Amarteifio) travels from Germany to England where she is to marry King George III (Corey Mylchreest). While their marriage starts off rocky, they learn to become a team. In 1817, Queen Charlotte (Golda Rosheuvel) fears her children will not produce an heir to the crown.

Rosheuvel has provided a strong Charlotte since Bridgerton’s first season and Amarteifio embodies her perfectly in speech and structure. It’s brilliant casting. Mylchreest gives layers to George as you see him struggle with his health.

There’s also a beautiful side romance between their secretaries Brimsley (Sam Clemmett) and Reynolds (Freddie Dennis) that you’ll cheer for just as much.

Final say: The story you didn’t know you wanted. ★★★★★