The Queens of Europe in Movies and TV Series — 55 Iconic Portrayals of Royal Power

By Elena Rodriguez | Film Correspondent | 2026-08-18

From Catherine the Great to Queen Elizabeth I, the queens of Europe have fascinated audiences for generations. Their stories of power, love, betrayal, and resilience have inspired some of the most memorable performances in film and television history. Here are 55 of the most iconic portrayals of European queens on screen.

Royal figures have long been a staple of cinema and television. The lives of queens — their struggles for power, their personal relationships, and their impact on history — provide rich material for storytellers. From epic historical dramas to intimate biopics, these performances have brought European royalty to life.

Catherine the Great has been portrayed multiple times, most notably by Helen Mirren in the 2019 HBO miniseries Catherine the Great. Mirren's performance captured the Russian empress's intelligence, ambition, and complexity. Other actresses who have played Catherine include Catherine Zeta-Jones and Julia Ormond.

Queen Elizabeth I is one of the most portrayed monarchs in film history. Cate Blanchett's performances in Elizabeth (1998) and Elizabeth: The Golden Age (2007) are widely considered definitive. Judi Dench also delivered an Oscar-winning performance as the queen in Shakespeare in Love (1998).

Mary, Queen of Scots has been portrayed by actresses including Saoirse Ronan in Mary Queen of Scots (2018) and Vanessa Redgrave in the 1971 film of the same name. Her tragic life and rivalry with Elizabeth I continue to captivate audiences.

Queen Victoria has been depicted by actresses such as Emily Blunt in The Young Victoria (2009) and Jenna Coleman in the ITV series Victoria. Her long reign and enduring marriage to Prince Albert are central to many portrayals.

Marie Antoinette has been played by Kirsten Dunst in Sofia Coppola's Marie Antoinette (2006) and by Norma Shearer in the 1938 film. The French queen's lavish lifestyle and tragic end have made her a popular subject.

Isabella of Castile, who united Spain with Ferdinand, has been portrayed in various films and series. Her role in the Spanish Inquisition and the discovery of the Americas is a central part of her story.

Eleanor of Aquitaine, one of the most powerful women of the Middle Ages, has been played by Katharine Hepburn in The Lion in Winter (1968). Her intelligence and political acumen made her a formidable figure.

Queen Anne, the last Stuart monarch of England, is the subject of Olivia Colman's Oscar-winning performance in The Favourite (2018). The film explores her relationships with Sarah Churchill and Abigail Masham.

Christina of Sweden was portrayed by Greta Garbo in the 1933 film Queen Christina. Garbo's performance is legendary, capturing the queen's complexity and defiance of gender norms.

Catherine de' Medici, the powerful French queen, has been played by actresses including Fanny Ardant in the French series The Borgias and by Megan Follows in Reign.

These 55 portrayals reflect the enduring fascination with royal figures and the actresses who bring them to life. From Hollywood epics to European productions, these performances continue to resonate with audiences.

What You'll Learn in This Article

• 55 iconic portrayals of European queens on screen
• Names of actresses who have played famous queens
• Historical queens including Elizabeth I, Catherine the Great, Marie Antoinette, and Victoria
• Memorable performances from classic and modern films

Frequently Asked Questions

Who has played Catherine the Great?

Catherine the Great has been portrayed by Helen Mirren, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Julia Ormond, among others.

Which actresses have played Elizabeth I?

Cate Blanchett and Judi Dench are among the most famous actresses to portray Elizabeth I.

What is the best movie about a European queen?

Movies like Elizabeth, The Favourite, and Marie Antoinette are among the most acclaimed films about European queens.

What is the list of queens in movies and TV series?

The list includes 55 portrayals of queens including Elizabeth I, Catherine the Great, Victoria, Marie Antoinette, and many others.

Who created the queens list on Listal?

The list was created by Aliceinwinter on Listal.com.