BBC Select’s ‘Queens That Changed The World’ Returns for a New Season
BBC Select Orders Second Season of "Queens That Changed the World"
BBC Select has confirmed the production of a second season of the documentary series "Queens That Changed the World." The series aims to spotlight six influential female rulers from history: Maria Theresa, Mary Queen of Scots, Marie Antoinette, Rani of Jhansi, Agrippina the Younger, and Queen Charlotte. Each episode will delve into their motivations, how they asserted authority, and how their gender played a pivotal role in their political strategies.
Currently in production, the series is developed by Woodcut Media and distributed by Sphere Abacus, which has pre-sold the second season to BBC Studios America, SBS in Australia, Sky Germany, and Czech Television.
Utilizing a blend of archival footage, stylized recreations, and expert analysis from historians and academics, the series explores the ascension of each queen to power while examining critical elements of their reigns.
Hayley Rhodes serves as the series producer, with Kate Beal and Angie Cox as executive producers. Rhodes emphasized the show’s intent to provide a nuanced portrayal of these historical figures. "This series takes a fresh look at the lives and motivations of some of history’s most powerful women," she stated. "These are women who’ve often been seen as one-dimensional… We’ve been able to paint a picture that’s much more nuanced, showing how these Queens weathered storms and navigated the difficult dynamics of being a female ruler in a male-dominated world."
Jonathan Ford, Managing Director of Sphere Abacus, expressed enthusiasm for the second season. “We’re delighted to be distributing this unique and fascinating documentary series," he remarked, highlighting that the new season will offer audiences further insights into the lives of powerful female leaders and their enduring influence on historical events.
Woodcut Media is known for producing notable titles such as "Confessions of a Female Serial Killer" and "Fiennes: Return to the Wild," while Sphere Abacus also distributes significant works like "Heated Rivalry" and "Leaving Neverland."
