The problem with the new Netflix series Bridgerton is that it's so good, we've already raced through all eight episodes. While we wait patiently (or not so patiently) for a second season, which we're sure will be full of all kinds of delicious drama, there are a few other ways to pass the time. These shows and movies are perfect for a post-Bridgerton marathon.
There's a little something for everyone on this list. Sexy period dramas, dramatic historical fiction series, movies with swoonworthy love stories, shows about royal romantic intrigue, etc. No matter what any fan loved best about Bridgerton, there's a follow-up film or TV show that they should totally watch next.
Here are 15 of our favorites. They have a lot of the same themes that Bridgerton does (love, sex, scandal), and they'll tide viewers over until the Netflix series returns.
'Gossip Girl'
'Dickinson'
Although this Apple TV+ series explores the life of poet Emily Dickinson (played by Hailee Steinfeld), it's not a completely historical retelling. It's a little more punk rock, and many of the scenes also feature modern songs like Bridgerton does. They're both historical fiction with a modern twist.
'Pride and Prejudice'
The Keira Knightley movie is a perfectly fine adaptation of this Jane Austen novel, but the 1995 miniseries is unmatched it in its perfection. It's less overtly sexy, but it has its moments. Never forget when Colin Firth's Mr. Darcy emerges from the lake in a dripping wet white shirt. Check it out on Hulu.
'Outlander'
In Outlander, Claire Randall accidentally travels back in time to Scotland in the 18th century. There, she meets the most handsome and strong Scottish man named Jamie Fraser. She may have been married in the present timeline, but in the past, she can't resist Jamie. Watch all four sexy seasons on Netflix.
'Marie Antionette'
Kirsten Dunst stars as the titular Marie Antoinette in this film as she goes from shy teenager to spoiled French monarch. This movie is so lavish and glamorous that we can almost forget what ends up happening to Marie and her husband King Louis XVI. Almost. Rent the visually stunning biopic on Amazon Prime.
'Harlots'
This Hulu show dives into the world of brothels in 18th century London. Two warring brothels battle it out for the London monopoly, and these women will do whatever it takes to protect their business. The show is a super feminist take on the sex work industry at the time, so it's fascinating to watch.
'Anna Karenina'
The famed Russian book by Leo Tolstoy was made into a 2012 movie starring all kinds of attractive actors like Jude Law, Keira Knightley, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and more. It follows the 19th century tale of Russian high society where the well-to-do Anna Karenina begins an affair with handsome Count Vronsky. Watch it on Hulu or Amazon Prime.
