Title: The Cast of “Mary & George”: A Tale of Royal Intrigue and Complex Characters

and complex human relationships. Based on the book “The King’s Assassin: The Deadly Betrayal of the Duke of Buckingham” by Benjamin Woolley, this period drama explores the life and schemes of Mary Villiers, the Duchess of Buckingham, and her son George Villiers, who rose to prominence as one of King James I’s closest confidants. Together, they used their influence to steer the court, gain wealth, and consolidate power.

In the center of this compelling narrative is a stellar cast of actors tasked with bringing these historical figures to life. This article delves into the talented cast, their roles, and the real historical figures they portray, exploring how they contribute to the depth and richness of the series.

Lead Characters

1. Julianne Moore as Mary Villiers, Duchess of Buckingham

Academy Award-winning actress Julianne Moore takes on the role of Mary Villiers, the ambitious and cunning mother of George Villiers, the 1st Duke of Buckingham. Mary, often overshadowed by her son’s political achievements, played a pivotal role in orchestrating his rise to power. She used her intellect, wit, and charm to navigate the dangerous political waters of the Jacobean and Caroline courts, ensuring that her family would remain at the center of influence.

Moore’s extensive range as an actress—shown in films like Still Alice and Far From Heaven—positions her perfectly to bring the multi-faceted character of Mary to life. Mary Villiers was not just a doting mother; she was a master manipulator who played the royal court like a chessboard, and Moore’s ability to portray emotional depth, strength, and vulnerability adds nuance to the role.

The historical Mary Villiers was a figure who wielded soft power at a time when women were often sidelined in political affairs. She understood how to leverage the personal relationships her son built with King James I and, later, Charles I, turning their affections into real political capital. Moore’s performance is expected to capture this duality: a mother who loved her son deeply but also saw him as a tool for her own ambitions.

2. Nicholas Galitzine as George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham

Nicholas Galitzine, a rising star in Hollywood known for his roles in Cinderella and Purple Hearts, steps into the shoes of George Villiers, one of the most enigmatic figures of the Jacobean era. George’s rise from relatively humble beginnings to becoming the favorite of King James I is one of history’s most fascinating political ascents. His close, possibly romantic relationship with the king afforded him unparalleled influence over English politics and royal decisions.

Galitzine has the challenge of portraying a character who is both charismatic and controversial. George was known for his good looks, charm, and wit, which won him the affection of the king. But his political enemies viewed him as manipulative and self-serving, leading to his eventual assassination. George’s ambition often put him at odds with powerful factions at court, and Galitzine’s ability to balance charm with ambition will be key in portraying this figure.

Historically, George Villiers was a complex character who rose quickly but also made many enemies along the way. His relationship with King James I was a mix of personal affection and political maneuvering, and Galitzine’s portrayal will likely explore this relationship in depth. The young actor’s fresh energy is expected to bring vitality to the role, making George both relatable and enigmatic.

Supporting Cast

3. Simon Russell Beale as King James I

Acclaimed British actor Simon Russell Beale plays King James I, a monarch whose reign is marked by political and personal complexities. James was known for his intellectual pursuits and his attempts to unite Scotland and England under one crown. But his favoritism toward young courtiers, particularly George Villiers, sparked controversy.

Beale, a veteran stage actor, is known for his Shakespearean roles and his deep understanding of historical characters. His portrayal of James I promises to be nuanced, focusing on the king’s vulnerability, his intellectual depth, and his complicated feelings toward Villiers. James’s affection for George, which some historians believe may have been romantic, will likely be a focal point of the series, and Beale is expected to bring gravitas to this sensitive and intriguing aspect of the monarch’s life.

4. Rupert Everett as King Charles I

Rupert Everett, known for his roles in My Best Friend’s Wedding and The Happy Prince, portrays King Charles I, the son of King James I, who later became a central figure in the English Civil War. Charles inherited George Villiers as a trusted advisor from his father, but their relationship was far more strained.

Everett’s experience playing aristocratic and historical figures makes him an excellent choice for King Charles I, who was a more reserved and stubborn monarch compared to his father. The tension between Charles and George Villiers, who continued to exert influence over the crown despite his father’s death, adds another layer of political drama to the series. Everett is expected to bring a regal intensity to the role, portraying the inner conflict of a king torn between personal loyalty and the political necessities of his reign.

5. Romola Garai as Katherine Villiers, Duchess of Buckingham

Romola Garai, an actress known for her period roles in Atonement and Emma, takes on the part of Katherine Villiers, the wife of George Villiers. Katherine was a notable figure in her own right, a member of the powerful Manners family, and later a loyal royalist during the English Civil War.

Garai’s portrayal of Katherine is expected to highlight her role as a partner in George’s ambitions, but also her individual strength. Katherine lived through the highs and lows of George’s career, witnessing both his meteoric rise and his tragic assassination. Garai, with her history of portraying strong, complex women, will likely bring a depth of emotion to Katherine, illustrating the toll that political ambition can take on personal relationships.

Additional Key Characters

6. Olivia Ross as Anne of Denmark

Olivia Ross, known for her work in Versailles and War & Peace, portrays Anne of Denmark, the wife of King James I. Anne was a queen consort who had a strained relationship with her husband and his favorites, including George Villiers. Her portrayal will add another layer of complexity to the dynamics at court, as Anne often found herself sidelined by the influence of others.

7. Freddie Fox as Prince Henry Frederick

Freddie Fox plays Henry Frederick, Prince of Wales, the elder son of King James I, who tragically died young. Although his life was cut short, Henry’s death had a profound impact on the royal family and the political landscape of the time, setting the stage for the rise of his younger brother, Charles I, and George Villiers’ continued prominence.

8. Claire Foy as Lady Eleanor Davies

Claire Foy, best known for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in The Crown, is cast as Lady Eleanor Davies, a prophetic figure who gained notoriety during the early 17th century. Her religious and apocalyptic visions captured the public imagination, and her inclusion in the series hints at the role of religious fervor and superstition in the political intrigue of the era.

Themes and Historical Context

“Mary & George” is set during a particularly tumultuous period in English history, marked by religious conflict, court intrigue, and the eventual breakdown of the monarchy, leading to the English Civil War. The show promises to explore not only the personal ambitions of its central characters but also the broader societal issues of the time, including the role of women in politics, the nature of power, and the precariousness of courtly favor.

The relationship between King James I and George Villiers is one of the central themes of the series. Their bond, whether seen as paternal, affectionate, or romantic, had a significant impact on the politics of the day. The series also promises to delve into Mary Villiers’ influence behind the scenes, showcasing how women, often excluded from official positions of power, could nonetheless shape the course of history through their relationships with powerful men.

Conclusion

The cast of “Mary & George” brings together a talented array of actors, each perfectly suited to their historical counterparts. Julianne Moore, Nicholas Galitzine, Simon Russell Beale, and the rest of the cast promise to deliver performances that will bring this fascinating period of history to life, exploring the complexities of power, loyalty, and ambition. With its rich historical backdrop and intriguing personal dynamics, “Mary & George” is set to be a standout historical drama, offering viewers a glimpse into one of the most fascinating and turbulent eras of English history.