“My Lady Jane,” the upcoming series on Prime Video, offers a unique twist on the story of Lady Jane Grey, the short-lived Tudor monarch. The show is based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows, and premieres on June 27, 2024.
The series is a radical reimagining of English royal history, presenting an alternative fate for Lady Jane Grey, who, in reality, was beheaded after a nine-day reign in 1553. In this satirical comedic fantasy, the damsel in distress saves herself and the kingdom.
The story is set in the 16th century and revolves around Lady Jane Grey, who, instead of facing the executioner’s axe, leads a fun and fulfilling life filled with romance and adventure. The show’s premise is a departure from the tragic historical figure, as it explores a world where Jane avoids execution and claims her power.
“My Lady Jane” is produced by MacDonald & Parkes, with Gemma Burgess and Meredith Glynn serving as co-showrunners and executive producers. The series is directed by Jamie Babbit, known for “Only Murders in Building.” The talented cast includes Emily Bader as Lady Jane Grey, Edward Bluemel as Lord Guildford Dudley, Jordan Peters as King Edward, Anna Chancellor as Lady Frances Grey, and Rob Brydon as Lord Dudley.
The showrunners cite “Bridgerton” and “The Princess Bride” as major influences, promising a blend of romance, adventure, and fantasy. “My Lady Jane” adds a fantastical twist to the historical setting, dividing society into Verities (normal people) and Ethians (those with shape-shifting abilities).
“My Lady Jane” builds on the success of the novel, which received critical acclaim and a Goodreads Choice Award nomination for Best Young Adult Fantasy & Science Fiction in 2016. The book became a New York Times bestseller, praised for its witty and uplifting retelling of history.
