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The Borgias 2011

“Flesh and Blood”

★ 7.6/10 · 525 votes TV-MA DramaCrime 3 seasons · 29 eps Canceled
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Quick answer

What is The Borgias?

The Borgias is a historical drama television series that explores the rise of the Borgia family during the Renaissance era in Italy. The series was created by Neil Jordan and ran for three seasons from 2011 to 2013.

Type
TV series
Year
2011
Status
Canceled
Episodes
29
Runtime
50 minutes
First aired
Apr 3, 2011
Last aired
Jun 16, 2013
Original language
EN
Origin
US
Networks
Showtime
Genres
Drama, Crime
Updated
Availability by region

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Estimate the schedule using 29 episodes and an average 50-minute runtime.

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Overview

The Borgias is a historical drama television series that explores the rise of the Borgia family during the Renaissance era in Italy. The series was created by Neil Jordan and ran for three seasons from 2011 to 2013. The show is set in 15th century Italy and follows the corrupt rise of patriarch Rodrigo Borgia to the papacy. The Borgia family became prominent in ecclesiastical and political affairs in the 15th and 16th centuries, producing two popes. The series features a cast including Jeremy Irons, François Arnaud, Holliday Grainger, and Peter Sullivan. The Borgias were originally from Valencia, Spain, and established roots in Italy. The family's history is marked by their involvement in ecclesiastical and political affairs, with notable members including popes and a duchess. The show's historical context is rooted in the Renaissance era, a time of significant cultural and artistic transformation in Italy. The series provides a dramatized portrayal of the Borgia family's ascension to power and their subsequent struggles to maintain control.

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Should you watch it?

“A corrupt Renaissance pope and his ruthless family scheme for power and survival.”

Reasons to watch
  • Intricate family dynamics and power struggles
  • Rich historical setting and costumes
  • Strong performances from the main cast
Keep in mind
  • Slow pacing in early episodes
  • Some historical liberties taken

You enjoy morally complex historical dramas about power and corruption.

Contains mature themes, violence, and sexual content typical of Renaissance-era political intrigue.

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Episode guide

Season 1 · 9 episodes Open the complete Season 1 guide →
Season 2 · 10 episodes
Season 3 · 10 episodes

Frequently asked questions

Is this based on real historical events?

Yes, it's loosely based on the real Borgia family and 15th century papal politics.

How historically accurate is the show?

It takes significant creative liberties with historical facts for dramatic purposes.

Is it appropriate for children?

No, it's intended for mature audiences due to its violent and sexual content.

How many seasons are there?

The series ran for multiple seasons during its original broadcast period.

Where does it take place?

Primarily in Renaissance-era Italy, centered around Rome and the Vatican.