“The Great” is a satirical comedy-drama TV series created by Tony McNamara, loosely based on the life of Catherine the Great, the longest-reigning female ruler of Russia. The show stars Elle Fanning as Catherine and Nicholas Hoult as Emperor Peter III. It is known for its dark humor, sharp writing, and lavish production design.
The Great – Season 1 – TV Series – Summary
Season 1 of “The Great” introduces Catherine, a young and optimistic Austrian woman, who arrives in Russia to marry Emperor Peter III. Catherine dreams of a life filled with love, progress, and enlightenment, but her new reality is far from the fairy tale she imagined. Peter is a self-centered, childish, and often cruel ruler whose incompetence becomes increasingly clear to Catherine.
As Catherine adapts to the chaotic Russian court, she realizes the empire needs drastic reform—and that she may be the only one capable of enacting it. Disillusioned with her husband, she begins to plot a coup to overthrow him and become Empress in her own right. The season balances Catherine’s growth into a scheming, determined leader with her struggles to navigate court politics, build alliances, and maintain her humanity.
The Great – Season 1 – Trailer
