Rebecca Ferguson, known for her captivating roles in the Apple TV sci-fi drama Silo, the Mission: Impossible franchise, and Denis Villeneuve‘s acclaimed Dune films, also shines brilliantly in the historical drama The White Queen. This miniseries, which originally aired from June to August 2013 on BBC One before reaching audiences in the United States via Starz, showcases Ferguson’s talent through her portrayal of Elizabeth Woodville, a politically astute and controversial English queen from the 15th century. Audiences seeking to fully appreciate Ferguson’s range will find this series an essential part of her work, highlighting her commanding screen presence in a politically charged and dramatic historical setting.
The White Queen: A Drama Set Against the Tumult of the War of the Roses
The White Queen dramatizes the complex life of Elizabeth Woodville, a commoner who rises dramatically in status by marrying King Edward IV of England, played by Max Irons. The story is firmly rooted in true events, adapted from Philippa Gregory’s novel, and set against the violent backdrop of the War of the Roses, a dynastic conflict between the houses of York and Lancaster for the English throne. At the start of the series, Elizabeth is a widow living modestly with her mother Jacquetta of Luxembourg, portrayed by Janet McTeer, and her many siblings.
The series opens with a tense encounter in the woods where Edward, initially attempting to seize Elizabeth by force, quickly finds himself captivated by her fierce defense and intelligence. Against the counsel of his trusted advisor Richard Neville (James Frain), Edward marries Elizabeth, transforming her family’s fortune and elevating the Rivers clan to unprecedented political power as Elizabeth is crowned queen. Their union produces numerous children, including their eldest daughter Elizabeth of York, an important historical figure whom the series hints will play a significant role later.
However, the peace is fragile. Edward’s brothers, George and Richard (played by David Oakes and Aneurin Barnard), betray him, igniting further turmoil in the royal court. Elizabeth and her children face exile due to the escalating conflict. The series also depicts the tragic fate of Elizabeth’s two eldest sons, who are imprisoned in the Tower of London and disappear mysteriously, an event that remains one of English history’s enduring mysteries.
Alongside Elizabeth’s story, the show follows the experiences of Richard Neville’s daughters, Isabel and Anne (Eleanor Tomlinson and Faye Marsay), as they navigate the dangerous politics of the court. It also introduces Margaret Beaufort (Amanda Hale), mother of Henry Tudor, who is determined to secure the throne for her lineage, setting the scene for the dynastic battles yet to come.
The Sequel That Continued the Legacy with a New Cast
Following The White Queen, Philippa Gregory’s sequel novel The White Princess was adapted into a television series in 2017, continuing the saga of the turbulent Plantagenet and Tudor eras. Rebecca Ferguson did not reprise her role as Elizabeth Woodville, which was instead taken on by Essie Davis. The narrative then shifts focus to Ferguson’s character’s daughter, Elizabeth of York, played as an adult by Jodie Comer. After the death of her secret lover—her uncle Richard III, who does not appear on screen—Elizabeth is compelled to marry Henry Tudor, later known as Henry VII, played by Jacob Collins-Levy.
The series explores the intense struggles Elizabeth of York faces as the mother of the Tudor dynasty, especially under the watchful eye of Margaret Beaufort, now portrayed by Michelle Fairley. Initially, Elizabeth despises her husband, but over time, an unexpected bond develops between them. Together, they have three children: Arthur, Henry, and Mary, with Arthur Tudor played by Billy Barratt. As Henry VII uncovers the possible role his mother played in the deaths of Elizabeth’s brothers, tensions rise, but the marriage strengthens the throne’s legitimacy and leads toward England’s dramatic transformation under their son, Henry VIII.
In 2019, the television series continued with The Spanish Princess, which centers on Catherine of Aragon, the wife of Arthur Tudor and later Henry VIII, portrayed by Charlotte Hope. Though this show expands the story further, The White Princess acts as a direct sequel to The White Queen, maintaining the lineage’s turbulent history.
Currently, viewers in the United States can watch all three series—The White Queen, The White Princess, and The Spanish Princess—on Starz, offering a rich exploration of a critical period in English history and a showcase of Rebecca Ferguson’s lasting impact within the historical drama genre.
Why Rebecca Ferguson’s Role Remains Important in Historical Drama
Rebecca Ferguson’s portrayal of Elizabeth Woodville in The White Queen stands out as a defining role that captures the complexity of a woman navigating power, betrayal, and survival during one of England’s most chaotic eras. Her performance brings depth to a character often overshadowed in history, revealing the subtle, strategic strength required to survive the deadly shifting alliances of 15th-century politics.
The series not only offers entertainment but also provides insight into the historical figures who shaped the fate of the English monarchy. By dramatizing events like the War of the Roses and the origins of the Tudor dynasty, the show emphasizes the human costs behind political upheaval. Ferguson’s role opens a window for audiences to appreciate these stories through a personal lens, enhancing the understanding of historical conflicts that still fascinate today.
As new generations encounter these dramatizations, the legacy of shows like The White Queen and Ferguson’s performance continues to influence how history dramas are crafted and received, ensuring that this period—and the women who shaped it—remain vividly remembered.
