The 30 Best Current Historical Drama Series

Alisha Marshall
Updated February 9, 2026 79.4K views 18 items
Ranked By
2.5Kvoters11.1Kvotes
Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite historical drama shows that are currently airing new episodes.

Historical drama series immerse modern-day audiences in stories set against the backdrop of times gone by while revealing universal truths about humanity. With a wide range of time periods and settings, the best current historical drama shows offer intricate plots and well-developed characters that captivate audiences with their authenticity and attention to detail. These productions not only entertain but also provide fascinating insights into different eras and cultures throughout history. 

These top-notch current historical drama shows showcase dynamic characters caught up in challenging circumstances dictated by their surroundings and societal expectations. By recreating settings from the past - from opulent ballrooms to gritty streets - these series paint vivid pictures of worlds gone by. Furthermore, through carefully crafted storylines that tackle complex issues, these historical TV shows invite viewers to reflect on how the past mirrors the present. 

A prime example of such gripping storytelling is found in Outlander, which weaves a tale of romance and adventure spanning centuries as its protagonist travels between 18th-century Scotland and her own time. Similarly, The Gilded Age transports audiences to the sumptuous world of 19th-century American high society where fortunes are made and hearts broken against the backdrop of an evolving nation. For fans favoring a darker tone, Peaky Blinders delivers stunning performances set against the brutal landscape of post-World War I Birmingham as a powerful crime family navigates treacherous territory filled with rival gangs and corrupt officials. 

With each new addition to this genre, the best current historical drama shows forge a powerful bond between past and present. They remind us of our shared humanity while celebrating the timeless stories that continue to shape our world. The best historical drama shows bridge the gap between past and present with their compelling tales of love, triumph, tragedy, and discovery. 
 

Ranked by