The Tudors - Michael Hirst

THE TUDORS focuses on the rarely dramatized, tumultuous early years of King Henry VIII's nearly 40-year omnipotent reign (1509-1547). In addition to dalliances with famous female consorts Catherine of Aragon and the infamous Anne Boleyn, the series delves into Henry's most notable political relationships, including those with philosopher Sir Thomas More, Cardinal Wolsey, head of the Catholic Church of England during its break with Rome, and Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk and Henry VIII's closest friend.

The new BBC drama series THE TUDORS, stars Golden Globe-winner Jonathan Rhys-Meyers ("Mission: Impossible III," "Match Point," "Elvis") as a young Henry VIII. Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated actor Sam Neill ("Jurassic Park," "Little Fish"), Jeremy Northam (CBS' "Martin & Lewis," "The Net," "Gosford Park") and Henry Cavill ("Tristan & Isolde") also make up the cast.