This is one of the most beautiful, risky, series I have ever seen. Henry is portrayed as an athlete, sexy, brilliant and multidimensional...as he is described in journals of the day. You understand his desperation for a son and even share it by the end of the series. What they don't explain, and it would have made for better plots in my mind, is why. Henry actually had 2 sons who lived and were recognized as potential heirs to the throne. His young Prince lived less than a year and was one of nine(?) loses. The other pre-dated the legitimate heir; brilliant, athletic and handsome Henry Fitz-Roy. He was his illegitimate son by Bessie Blount, and had been born when Henry was a young man, forced into a marriage he never anticipated or really enjoyed. He loved Henry FR and by giving him that last name, which is an Anglo-Norman word meaning "Son of the King", Henry recognized him at a level thatwas slightly below legitimizing him, including taking custody of thechild and giving him castles, provinces, boats. He had everything hewould have as a recognized heir. In fact, Henry FR was the richest manin England and some would say he was all but named to the succession. That seemed to be KH8's intention. When HFR died from tuberculosis, as age 21, it literally devastated his father, KH8. NONE of this was ever mentioned in the series. In fact, he was portrayed as an infant during the time of Anne Boleyn, but in truth he died in 1536...the year before the King divorced KOA in quest for a surviving male heir. It was likely the impetus for the quick onset of events and desperation of the times...and how he got away with it, as a grieving father would have been excused for irrational actions.
Also downplayed was an extensive head injury that seems to have drastically altered Henry's personality, the year before Anne's trial and death. KH8's sisters, Princesses Mary and Margaret(?) were combined into one character...less of an issue to the viewer. The other life altering events were brushed over, barely mentioned,and literally pivoted the course of history. Having been so critical of the historical accuracy, I've got to give it to them on character development, overall grandeur, writing and the most beautiful/accurate costuming I've ever seen in a period film. The cast is amazing, riveting, even the minor characters have so much depth. I love this series!!!
Also downplayed was an extensive head injury that seems to have drastically altered Henry's personality, the year before Anne's trial and death. KH8's sisters, Princesses Mary and Margaret(?) were combined into one character...less of an issue to the viewer. The other life altering events were brushed over, barely mentioned,and literally pivoted the course of history. Having been so critical of the historical accuracy, I've got to give it to them on character development, overall grandeur, writing and the most beautiful/accurate costuming I've ever seen in a period film. The cast is amazing, riveting, even the minor characters have so much depth. I love this series!!!
Tell Your Friends