CAST

Julianne Moore
Nicholas Galitzine
Tony Curran

Review

The pilot episode of Mary & George sets the stage for a delicious, morally twisted, and wildly entertaining historical drama. Julianne Moore dazzles as Mary Villiers, a cunning and determined Countess who is laser-focused on pulling her family out of poverty and into great power. Her big plan? Shape her son George (played by Nicholas Galitzine) into the ultimate courtier – seductive, sharp-witted, and capable of charming King James I himself.

From the start, the episode plunges us into the vibrant, high-stakes world of Jacobean England, weaving intrigue, ambition, and biting humor quite seamlessly. The dialogue is witty, capturing Mary’s machinations and George’s reluctant transformation with a balance of comedy and tension. It’s hard not to be both a bit shocked and amused by Mary’s boldness, particularly when hyping up George who doesn’t want to do this, and is at times hilariously dramatic – teetering on the edge of self-destruction over the slightest inconvenience.

Galitzine is impressive as George, evolving from a petulant, pig headed young man into someone exuding a newfound assurance after a brief but transformative stint in France. Though the time spent abroad feels a little rushed, Galitzine’s portrayal manages to bridge the gap, making his character’s growth believable and intriguing.

The show leans unapologetically into its central premise – a mother “pimping” her son to secure wealth and influence – and while it could easily veer into melodrama, the sharp writing and compelling performances keep it grounded. The pilot’s playful tone, coupled with a lavish production design and an eye for period detail, promises a show that can balance decadence with character-driven storytelling.

Whether you come for the historical intrigue or stay for the razor-sharp wit, the queerness, Mary & George is off to an exhilarating start. This is a tale about ambition and manipulation, where moral boundaries blur, and every move is a calculated step toward power. Moore’s commanding presence alone makes this a series worth watching, but the dynamic between her and Galitzine’s George ensures this show has both style and substance.

If you’re enjoying the content, you can help by leaving a like, a comment, or by getting me a coffee: