An award-winning period romance drama onNetflixis off to a strong start following the debut of season 2. The period romance subgenre is a key component of the streamer’s success, represented by the runaway popularity ofBridgerton. Despite the notable gaps between seasons, and the shifting central focus from one season to the next,Bridgertonseason 3 reaffirmed the franchise’s passionate support as it dominated the streaming charts and broke records.

The success ofBridgerton, which has served as a launching pad for new stars, has led to the creation of a franchise with theQueen Charlotteprequel spinoffand the possibility of other series following that example. But it has also revived interest in corset dramas, with the Apple TV dramedyThe Buccaneersstanding out as an example. Another corset drama, though far more serious in its tone, is trending on Netflix.

Elisabeth and Franz stand outside the palace while framed through the bars of the fence in The Empress

The Empress Season 2 Is A Global Hit

It Comes In Third On A Busy Chart

With its arrival onNetflixon November 22,The Empressseason 2 has debuted on the streamer’s global Top 10 chart for shows that are not in the English language. The period drama tookthe #3 spot on that chart for the week of November 18 through November 24. It’s an impressive accomplishment, considering that only two days of views are accounted for.

The Empress Season 1 Recap: 10 Things You Need To Remember Before Season 2

The Empress season 1 included several details and important information that fans of the series need to remember before the show’s season 2 premiere.

The Empressseason 2 debutedwith 24 million views and 5.5 million hours viewed. It came in ahead ofSisters' Feud,Beyond Goodbye,Adoration, andWhen The Phone Rings, all of which are either in season 1 or listed as limited series.Overall, the chart was topped by French sports dramaThe Cagewhich has ranked for three straight weeks.

Elisabeth and Sophie in The Empress season 2

What’s The Empress About?

It Takes Inspiration From A Real Figure

Hailing from creator Katharina Eyssen, the German drama isbased on the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Devrim Lingnau stars in the main role, with Philip Froissant as Emperor Franz Joseph, and the story details how the Bavarian princess turned Austrian struggled to adjust to her life in the Habsburg royal court once she’d married The Emperor. The show’s first installment won the International Emmy Drama Series award in 2023, boosted by astrongEmpresscastand generally positive reviews.

Is The Empress Based On A True Story? Real-Life Inspiration Explained

Netflix’s The Empress show covers the life of the Austrian royal family in the 1800s, mixing history with fiction as it tells their stories.

Although it’s too early to say with certainty, the performance of the Emmy winner just based on two days of data suggests that the drama could well dominate Netflix’s charts in the coming weeks and months. It is, in any case, an important component to consider with the possibility ofThe Empressseason 3remaining so far unconfirmed. It is also a reminder that a good chunk of Netflix’s successes come from outside of Hollywood.

A composite image of Elisabeth sitting in a chair in front of Franz smirking in The Empress

The Empress

Cast

Elisabeth “Sisi” of Bavaria’s life changes dramatically when she weds Emperor Franz Joseph and becomes Empress of Austria. Navigating the treacherous waters of the Viennese court, Sisi encounters both grand romance and fierce political maneuvering. As she adapts to her new position, she must assert her individuality and strength to protect her family and her empire.

The Empress TV Show Poster