Now that The Buccaneers is over, we must fill the empty void left in our hearts by this sad and romantic show. The show that follows the lives of five American girls who move to England to find husbands had all of us rooting for the girls. There are more than a few things that come to mind when we think about why The Buccaneers is so amusing. The female friendships, the love triangle, and the strong feminist messaging, amongst others. While coming up with this list, we’re keeping all of these thoughts in mind, because no two shows can really be the same. Historical drama, thrilling heart-fluttering romances, high-stakes love triangles, fantastic costumes—whatever you need, we’ve got you covered. Whatever you decide to choose, you’re in for a massive treat. Without further ado, let’s get into the shows to watch after The Buccaneers.
Bridgerton
Let’s get the obvious one out of the picture first. If you haven’t watched Bridgerton yet, firstly, congratulations on being separated from the crowd. The show that took the internet by storm actually does have some perks and stands up to the hype, specifically in the second season. Picture this: Gossip Girl meets Pride and Prejudice. The show follows the Bridgerton siblings (a family that keeps giving) who are in the market to find love while navigating their lives as a family. It’s really a simple story, but it’s an anonymous gossip column that takes over the town and truly brings in all the drama that we’re so desperate for. You know how Guy keeps professing his deep love for Nan with these poetic and intense monologues? Well, if you’re looking for that, Anthony will give you exactly the same. While season 1 is not everyone’s cup of tea, the show really finds its footing in the second season. The pining alone is a reason to watch the show that will leave you wishing you had an enemies-to-lovers romance as passionate as Kate and Anthony’s. On the other hand, if you liked Jinny as a character, season 1 will definitely be a nice distraction.
The Gilded Age
There’s no need to explain why this show would be the perfect next step after The Buccaneers. It is, after all, set in the same era. While The Buccaneers doesn’t quite delve into the American side of newly developed opulence as such, it is more concerned with the girls and their love lives. Quite the contrary, The Gilded Age takes you straight to the heart of the lavish soirées and the dramatic treacherous lifestyles of the newly rich and elite of New York. If you’re even a little bit concerned about old vs. new, then this show will help you see the light.
Downton Abbey
Don’t come at me if you saw this one coming. There are only a few period dramas that have been as widely loved as Downton Abbey. The English show about a family in turmoil set in the early 20s is an absolute delight, especially in its first three seasons. It’s raining drama, and you’re not ready for it. From maddening courtships to family conflict, this show covers it all, with the most stunning costume work too. Also, there’s a huge advantage to having to binge-watch six seasons if you’re looking for something long-term. Don’t hesitate if you’re looking for heartbreak either; this show covers it all.
Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story
Yes, we’ve already mentioned Bridgerton, but Queen Charlotte is pretty much a show of its own. Even without having watched any of Bridgerton, it’s just as entertaining. If you’re looking for sheer romance and a lot of sadness, then this one will suffice. The drama goes back in time to the era of Bridgerton, showing us the story of the Queen that everyone has a love-hate relationship with. In this fictional world, worlds collide and society is forever changed. Still better than the first season of Bridgerton, though.
A Suitable Boy
The Indian series A Suitable Boy might be the most modern of these shows, but it is still a period piece. Winning hearts, complicated political situations, feminist ideologies, friendship, love, familial duty, sacrifice—everything you want is in this one limited series. To add to that, it’s also an adaptation of a book of the same name. As the name suggests, the show follows Lata, a woman who has come of age and is split between three perfectly suitable partners and familial duty. A lot of political drama may be a bit overwhelming, but the rest of the plot makes up for it.
Alias Grace
This will have to be the show that is most different from The Buccaneers, but it’s quite a fantastic period drama that is slept on. If you would like to delve into a murder mystery at this point after enjoying some good drama, then Alias Grace should be your pick. Adapted from Margaret Atwood’s book, the miniseries tells the tale of a young Grace Marks, an Irish immigrant in Canada, who gets convicted of murdering her employer. This show has some surprises that’ll leave you absolutely shocked. There’s more of a psychological appeal to it than anything else.
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo
If one has to talk about an ensemble cast, this is the first show that comes to mind. South Korea’s Moon Loves: Scarlet Heart Ryeo has a name that is just as much of a mouthful as the number of cast members in the show. If you have some spare tissues and time and want to have a good cry, then pick this show. Apart from being a historical drama, the show also has a fantastical element of time travel. The most devastating love triangle on this list belongs to this show. If you’re into slow-burn romances, terribly sad plot twists, and an incredible ensemble cast of stunning actors, then go for this one!
