BBC period drama fans say is ‘impossible not to binge’ - streaming on iPlayer
A ‘magnificent’ BBC period drama streaming free on iPlayer has captivated viewers, with fans calling the series inspired by true-events ‘brilliantly addictive’.
The ‘captivating’ period drama is streaming free on BBC iPlayer (Image: UKTV / BritBox / BBC Studios)
Over the years, the period drama genre on television has cultivated the sort of devoted following that is genuinely difficult to achieve.
From lavish and spectacular productions like Bridgerton to class-conscious series such as Downton Abbey and historical epics like The Crown, there is something to satisfy every enthusiast of the genre.
Now, a hidden gem of a historical drama is captivating audiences, with fans describing the BBC series as ‘brilliantly addictive’. Viewers have declared it ‘impossible not to binge-watch’ and insist that ‘everyone needs to watch’ the period drama, which can give even firm favourites like Bridgerton and Downton Abbey a genuine run for their money.
Available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer, Outrageous is a six-episode drama series that first aired on British television in June 2025. The show has been adapted from Mary S Lovell’s biography of the notorious Mitford sisters, titled The Mitford Girls (known as The Sisters in the USA).
Written for television by Sarah Williams and co-directed by Joss Agnew and Ellie Heydon, the period drama charts the remarkable lives of the six headline-grabbing Mitford sisters, reports Wales Online.
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Fans have labelled the show ‘magnificent in every way’ (Image: Kevin Baker / BBC Studios / Firebird Pictures)
The show’s official synopsis states: “Based on the story of the Mitford sisters, six sisters who refused to play by the rules and whose often-scandalous lives made headlines around the world. Set in the 1930s, it is a tale of betrayal, scandal, heartache and even imprisonment.”
Featuring Bessie Carter, Isobel Jesper Jones, Joanna Vanderham, Shannon Watson, Zoe Brough, and Orla Hill portraying the six Mitford sisters, the cast is further bolstered by Toby Regbo, Anna Chancellor, James Purefoy, Joshua Sasse, and Jamie Blackley, completing a remarkably gifted ensemble.
Outrageous was shot across various locations throughout the UK, including such distinguished settings as St Mary the Virgin’s Church in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, and Tring Park Mansion in Hertfordshire. Boasting an impressive 88% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the period drama has attracted widespread critical acclaim.
One critic said of the series: “It is a fun romp packed with delicious 1930s fashions, illicit affairs, and sibling feuds. But it’s also a harrowing chronicle of the rise of fascism in Europe.”
Viewers can’t seem to get enough of the show (Image: UKTV / BritBox / BBC Studios)
While another reviewer said: “Outrageous conjures up an impressive feat by balancing multiple acts. It’s a historic drama that speaks to the here and now, a serious exploration of politics that’s also full of fluff, and a classic British drama that feels young and cool.”
One critic’s review added: “While the script editors could have taken more care with some of the clunky exposition, this is undeniably fun and jaunty.”
An audience review heaping praise on the series reads: “Superbly written series and authentic presentation of the period. Wonderful ensemble performances with great direction of difficult scenes often involving sharp banter and wit between seven or more characters.
“Gorgeous production design, costume and make-up. Well done to all the cast and crew – it’s rare to see a period drama that captures an era without making the mistake of modern and anachronistic comment and judgment. So happy to see such a well made show.”
Meanwhile, one user review posted to IMDB reads: “Best series I’ve seen in a while! I thoroughly enjoyed season 1 of Outrageous. I was hooked straight from episode one and had to binge all the rest! The actress who plays Diane (Joanna Vanderham) is especially enthralling. The storyline is very relevant for today and I think everyone should watch this show.”
A further admirer of the programme said: “Please give us another season of Outrageous! The first season was magnificent in every way. The story is compelling and made more so by the fact that it’s based on a crazy but true story. The acting is superb and the filming, locations, and costumes are perfect.”
While one viewer put it simply: “Every single person needs to watch this! ! Especially with what’s going on in the world.”
