Do you need to watch The White Queen before The White Princess?

Do you need to watch The White Queen before The White Princess?

As a dedicated gamer and history enthusiast with a deep appreciation for historical fiction series, I can’t help but get excited about the upcoming arrival of “The White Princess” on BritBox in August. However, before diving into this new series, it’s essential to consider its context and relation to its predecessor, “The White Queen.”


Starting in August, “The White Princess” will make its debut on BritBox for the very first time. For those of you who love historical fiction, get ready to immerse yourselves in this captivating series. However, it’s important to note that this show is a continuation of previous stories.

As a passionate fan of historical fiction and someone who has spent years immersing myself in the Tudor era, I strongly recommend watching “The White Queen” before diving into “The White Princess.” While it is possible to jump straight into the sequel without having seen its predecessor, I believe that doing so would be a missed opportunity.

The White Princess is a standalone limited series

If you’re only interested in watching Jodie Comer’s series, you’re welcome to do so. However, please note that “The White Princess” and “The White Queen” were produced independently of each other. The stories connect since they’re based on historical events, but different actors portray the characters. For instance, Rebecca Ferguson plays Elizabeth Woodville in “The White Queen,” while Essie Davis takes on this role in “The White Princess.” Similarly, Amanda Hale depicts Margaret Beaufort in the former series, and Michelle Fairley portrays her in the latter.

In the next installment of the story, you don’t have to recall previous events to follow along. The only relevant background knowledge is that in “The White Queen,” Elizabeth Woodville covertly saved her second son from being taken to the Tower of London by Richard.

Get the full history with The White Queen first

It’s certainly possible to appreciate “The White Princess” as an independent miniseries. However, for a richer viewing experience, consider watching “The White Queen” first. Doing so will provide you with a more comprehensive understanding of the events that transpired prior to Henry VII assuming the throne.

As a history enthusiast with a particular interest in the War of the Roses, I strongly believe it’s essential to delve into the complexities of the animosity between the Houses of York and Lancaster. Edward IV’s life story is an intriguing one, and understanding his role in this historical feud is crucial. Moreover, shedding light on the mysterious disappearance of the Princes in the Tower adds depth to the narrative.

Based on my personal experience as an avid reader of historical fiction, I’d like to share that Philippa Gregory’s novels, while rooted in history, are not strict retellings of actual events from the time period. Drawing upon my own immersion into these intricately woven stories, I find that they offer a unique and captivating perspective on historical figures and their eras. The richly detailed narratives add depth and complexity to the people and events portrayed, providing a vivid and engaging experience for the reader.

If you’re considering watching “The Spanish Princess” without having seen “The White Queen” first, I’d still recommend giving the former a miss for now. It won’t ruin your experience with the second series, but knowing the background and context of Catherine of Aragon from “The White Queen” will enrich your understanding and enjoyment of “The Spanish Princess.” Plus, you have some spare time on your hands now – why not make the most of it by diving into “The White Queen”? Trust me, it’s a captivating series that’s well worth your attention. Once you’ve finished that, you can move onto “The Spanish Princess” and continue following Catherine’s journey.

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2024-07-18 21:37