The new comedy-fantasy series “My Lady Jane” presents an imaginative retelling of Lady Jane Grey’s life, blending historical elements with whimsical fantasy. The eight-episode show, which premiered in London on Wednesday, is inspired by the best-selling 2016 novel by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows. Lady Jane Grey, a studious teen, briefly ascended to the English throne in 1553 after her cousin King Edward VI‘s death, only to be dethroned nine days later by his half-sister Mary and subsequently executed at the age of 16 or 17. The series, however, breathes new life into her story, reimagining her relationships with her family, her husband Lord Guildford Dudley, and the Tudor court, while adding vibrant fantasy elements to the narrative.
Gemma Burgess, the show’s creator, co-showrunner, and executive producer, highlighted the show’s focus on a young heroine navigating a world that seeks to limit her power. “It’s a young heroine coming of age in a world that doesn’t want her to have any power. And then she gets all the power,” Burgess said at the London premiere. She emphasized the aim to create an action-packed, female-forward adventure that appeals to a broad audience.
American actress Emily Bader, who portrays Jane, expressed her excitement about the role, describing it as “an amazing challenge” and an honor. “When I found out that it could be me, all my dreams kind of came true,” Bader shared. She appreciated the opportunity to subvert historical tropes and give Jane a “what if” scenario, allowing her character a chance at a better future.
The series boasts a large ensemble cast, including Rob Brydon as Lord Dudley, Anna Chancellor as Jane’s mother Lady Frances Grey, and Dominic Cooper as Lord Seymour. Bader believes fans of the book will love the show, praising Burgess and co-showrunner Meredith Glynn for expanding on the rich source material. “We have new characters, new relationships, new environments, new drama. And we’ve aged them up a bit, so it’s a bit sexy,” she noted.
“My Lady Jane” aims to captivate viewers with its unique blend of historical drama and fantasy, reimagining the tragic story of Lady Jane Grey with humor, empowerment, and a dash of magic.
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