Kelsey Garbutt 

4th November, 2022 

After three long awaited years, we finally got to journey back into the world of Westeros in its full glory. With its rich storytelling, complex characters (‘cough’ Daemon) and of course, the Dragons, Game of Thrones fans finally got to experience the redemption Westeros deserved.  

The good news is that season 2 looks to be even more explosive now that all the chess pieces are in play- following that action-packed and let’s be honest, quite traumatising season finale. The not so good news is that the season 2 release does not drop until 2024. But fear not, I have compiled a not so typical list of shows to fill that Vhagar-sized hole that is the gap between season 1 and 2. 

1. The Last Kingdom (2015-2022) 

To kick this list off we have the Last Kingdom- a story based on the trials and adventures of Uhtred- a man who was born a Saxon but raised as a Dane. The astute readers amongst us may have deduced that this contrast could lead to conflict and spoiler alert- it absolutely does.   

This show has it all; family betrayals, political scheming, pure unadulterated human connections and of course, some crazy hairstyles. What truly makes this show unique however, is its ability to portray what strong and complex female characters look like in an Early medieval setting without falling into stereotypical tropes.  

watch at: https://www.netflix.com/gb/ 

2. Taboo (2017- present) 

Next on the list is a show unlike any I have seen before (which believe me, is saying something). Steeped with intrigue, mystery and best of all Tom Hardy, this alone should be enough reason to binge this show immediately.  

Set in 1800s London, James Delaney (Tom Hardy) returns to London from elusive and mysterious circumstances in order to enact some serious revenge and claim his inheritance. Just thinking about this show makes me want to re-watch it ASAP.  

P.S. This show may involve a Targaryen element (if you catch my drift). Watch at: https://www.netflix.com/gb/ 

3. Plebs (2013- present) 

On a more light-hearted note comes Plebs, the BAFTA-nominated sitcom that follows the lives Marcus, Stylax and Grumio: three guys from the suburbs trying to make it in the city. The city being ancient Rome.  

This side-splitting comedy is oddly relatable and is filled with warmth. The best way I can describe this show is if the Inbetweeners and Brassic had a baby. 

Watch at: https://www.itv.com/hub/plebs/2a1873 

4. Britannia (2018- present) 

Continuing with the Roman theme is Britannia, a real stand out series. This is a show that truly has it all; comedy, tragedy, religious intrigue, the might of the Roman empire and the journey of womanhood. I’m out of breath just thinking about it. 

Set in a land we now call Britain in 43AD, this is a land before Christianity, with warring tribes and a soundtrack that slaps. Name me another show that contains Queens, druids and drugs in one place? 

Featuring David Morrissey, Mackenzie Crook and Eleanor Worthington. Watch at: https://www.nowtv.com/ 

5. Preacher (2016-2019) 

What a note to end on. Where do I even begin with preacher. An outlandish and outrageous show following an unlikely trio in search of God who has happened to go missing. The trio in question consists of Jesse Custer (Dominic Cooper) an extremely unconventional Preacher. Tulip O’hare (Ruth Negge) a gifted criminal and violent force of nature. Finally, one of my all-time favourite actors- Cassidy (played by Joseph Gilgun) who plays the hysterical Irish vampire. 

This show is based on the comic series and can only be categorised as extremely comedic, extremely violent and extremely absurd, this show has to be seen to be believed. 

Watch at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Amazon-Video/b?ie=UTF8&node=3046738031 

Now, this list (for regular people) should be sufficient to get you through until season 2. However, if you are even half of the tv binging, thrill seeking, escapism addicts that I suspect you are, then start spamming the comments for a part two.