Tudors Dynasty & Beyond

Today the lovely Andrea Zuvich joins me to discuss the topic of her new book, A Life of Barbara Villiers, Charles II's Most Infamous Mistress . Barbara Villiers was so much more than the mistress of Charles II, and I hope today you will give her another look, and check out Andrea's book! https://www.andreazuvich.com/ podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/andrea-zuvich Become a PATRON! h...

In this episode I uncover the story of Renée of France, a princess who defied royal expectations and embraced the Protestant Reformation. Despite being married into the Catholic court of Ferrara, Renée became a protector of reformers like John Calvin and a supporter of the Huguenots during the French Wars of Religion. Discover how her courage and conviction in a time of religious conflict left a l...

This episode is a bit of a whirlwind, but in the best way! We recorded it last week on my birthday as a fun project with two close friends. I'll admit, we cover a wide range of topics, so if you enjoy hearing Emma and me chat, you're in for a treat! -- Please consider supporting the podcast on Patreon! -- Rebecca Larson Dr. Emma Cahill Marron

Matthew Lewis joins me once again to dive into his favorite topic—the Princes in the Tower. This enduring mystery never fails to captivate, but I have to admit, Matt may have finally convinced me! What do you think? -- Matt's Books -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Matthew Lewis

In this episode, we explore the life of Anne of Gloucester, granddaughter of King Edward III and a key figure in late medieval England. From her noble birth to her strategic marriages and the losses she endured, Anne’s life was shaped by the political turbulence of her time. Discover how this formidable heiress navigated power, tragedy, and survival, while raising children who would play pivotal r...

Today, I am joined by the lovely Bonnie Beadle of the Queen Katherine Parr Society  to discuss the last wife of Henry VIII in life and in film. This fun, laid-back episode examines Parr's portrayals in The Tudors , Becoming Elizabeth , and Firebrand . -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Bonnie Beadle

Today I am joined by Sophie Bacchus-Waterman to discuss Elizabeth Boleyn, the mother of Anne Boleyn. For centuries, she has loomed in the shadows of history and today I am pleased to shine a light on this amazing woman who was weaved into the story of the Tudors. Follow Sophie on Twitter/X Want to support the show and get commercial-free access? Head over to Patreon! -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest:...

In this episode, we explore the lives of two powerful Tudor women—Mary Tudor, Queen of France, and Margaret Douglas, the influential daughter of Margaret Tudor. Discover Mary’s dramatic marriage to King Louis XII and Margaret’s pivotal role in the Tudor-Stuart dynastic struggle. Learn how their decisions shaped the future of England and Scotland. -- Are you looking for a commercial free experience...

Today I welcome author Tony Riches to the show to discuss his research into the daughter of Queen Elizabeth's spymaster, Francis Walsingham. His daughter, also named Frances led a fascinating life full of the drama and intrigue we all love. Link to The Elizabethan Court Day by Day Tony's Books Tony's Podcast: Stories of the Tudors https://www.tonyriches.com/ -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Tony Ric...

History has a way of repeating itself. In this episode, I'm joined by Matthew Lewis to explore just that. While the Peasants' Revolt of 1381 may seem like a distant event, its echoes resonate with issues we face today. We'll also draw fascinating parallels to the Tudor era, particularly the Pilgrimage of Grace, and uncover the recurring patterns in these historical uprisings. Matt'...

In this episode we uncover the untold stories of two powerful yet often overlooked women. Discover the tragedy and resilience of Eleanor de Bohun, Duchess of Gloucester, whose life was torn apart by political intrigue, and meet Blanche of Navarre, Queen of France, who found herself at the center of a royal succession crisis. Tune in to hear how these remarkable women navigated the shadows of power...

In this episode, I'm joined by special guest Sharon Bennett Connolly to delve into the fascinating story of Perkin Warbeck, the infamous pretender to the English throne. We'll explore Warbeck's rebellion, his audacious attempt to claim Exeter, and the compelling role his wife, Lady Katherine Gordon, played in his quest for legitimacy. Sharon's website: History...The Interesting Bit...

Today, I’m thrilled to welcome back Dr. Emma for another deep dive into one of our favorite subjects—Katherine of Aragon! As always, our conversation branches into so many fascinating Tudor topics that it’s hard to list them all. But this episode is fittingly titled Katherine of Aragon: The Queen of Queens , because the more we discuss her, the more I’m struck by her immense contributions to Tudor...

Rather than our usual This Week in Royal History  segment, I’ve decided to spotlight two remarkable women from this week in history. I hope you enjoy diving into the fascinating lives of these extraordinary queens: Maria Amalia of Saxony and Elizabeth of Bohemia. -- Looking for a commercial-free experience? Please consider becoming a patron on Patreon for as little $3/month. Patreon -- Credits : N...

One of my favorite places in the whole world is the medieval ponds at Cadhay House in Devon. The owner, Rupert Thistlethwayte sat down with me for a chat about the history of this picturesque Tudor estate, and give some hints at conspiracy in Devon. Rupert even dubbed me his US Ambassador to Cadhay! Devon held many notable families of the time like the Courtenays, Somersets, Raleigh, Drake and so...

You may recognize the name Susanna Horenbout, but how much do you really know about her story? Today, I'm excited to have Dr. Emma, our resident art historian, with us to dive into the fascinating life of this remarkable artist and explore her connections to the Tudor court and beyond! -- Looking for a commercial-free experience? How about early access to episodes? Exclusive content? ⁠Please c...

I'm thrilled to welcome the incredible Dr. Emma Cahill Marron back to the podcast! This time, we're diving into the life of Katherine of Aragon and exploring how her influence helped shape the Tudor court. We even had a fascinating revelation: Katherine and other formidable women of her era were true pioneers of marketing! -- Looking for a commercial-free experience? How about early access...

In this episode, I am joined by the amazingly talented actress, Aurora Dawon-Hunte to discuss Elizabeth Seymour. Aurora played Elizabeth Seymour alongside Ben Miles in the stage adaptation of The Mirror and the Light. Aurora Dawson-Hunte (she doesn't have a professional social media account) -- Credits: Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Aurora Dawson-Hunte

Welcome to This Week in Royal History, where we delve into the captivating stories of royals from around the world and across the centuries. This week we cover the following people: Thomas of Woodstock, Duke of Gloucester Elizabeth Stuart James IV of Scotland Charles II of Orleans Empress Matilda Henrietta Maria of France, Queen of England Eleanor of Lancaster Blanche of Lancaster Isabella of Valo...

Sudeley Castle, the final home of Kateryn Parr and Thomas Seymour, carries a deep connection to their story. Granted to Thomas when he was created Baron Seymour of Sudeley by his nephew, Edward VI, in 1547, the castle became a place of both joy and sorrow. It was here that Parr passed away on September 5, 1548, shortly after giving birth to their daughter. Kateryn Parr is unique among Henry VIII&#...

One of the absolute highlights of my trip to England was spending time with Ben and George Miles. They were such a blast that I just had to sit down with them for a chat. You might know Ben Miles from The Crown  or Napoleon , but he’s also renowned for his portrayal of Thomas Cromwell in Hilary Mantel's stage adaptation of her trilogy. George, an incredibly talented photographer, is someone I...

Welcome to This Week in Royal History, where we delve into the captivating stories of royals from around the world and across the centuries. This week we cover the following people: Anne Boleyn Anna Sophie of Denmark King Richard I Eleanor of Portugal Joan of England Alexander III of Scotland Louis VIII of France Isabel Neville John I, Duke of Cleves Elizabeth I Joan of the Tower Joanna of Austria...

In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome the wonderful Dr. Emma Cahill Marron back to the show, this time as our host! Emma will be joined by Alejandro Vergara-Sharp, a fellow American and Senior Curator of Flemish and Northern European Paintings at the Prado Museum. Together, they’ll delve into the concept of quality in art, inspired by Alejandro’s new book, What is Quality in Art? -- Looking f...

**Best viewed as video! Available on YouTube and Spotify. I had the privilege of visiting the ruins of Berry Pomeroy Castle in England, a site with a fascinating history that piqued my interest, particularly because it was originally purchased by Edward Seymour, the 1st Duke of Somerset and Lord Protector. During my visit, I was fortunate to receive a guided tour and an in-depth history lesson on...

Welcome to This Week in Royal History, where we delve into the captivating stories of royals from around the world and across the centuries. This week we cover: Margaret of Anjou Lady Catherine Grey Anne d'Orleans Arthur III, Duke of Brittany Anna of Brandenburg Eleanor of England Louis XI of France ⁠Looking for a commercial-free experience?⁠ Want to become a patron on Patreon? Learn more ⁠HER...