For those who adored Bridgerton for its opulent period glamour, sumptuous costumes and all the steamy moments in between, this period drama series is certain to captivate.

Viewers who discover the series cannot help but sing its praises, propelling two of its seasons to a flawless 100% score on the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.

Harlots is a British period drama which debuted in 2017 and has mesmerised audiences ever since with its lavish 1760s London backdrop. Taking inspiration from The Covent Garden Ladies by British historian Hallie Rubenhold, the programme transports viewers to 18th-century London and inside a brothel on the capital’s streets.

It chronicles the tale of a woman running a brothel as the women of the community feel their choices are severely limited, confined to either marriage or sex work.

Standing in their way are numerous religious authorities determined to close the establishment down, pressuring police to carry out raids.

The central character is portrayed by Samantha Morton as Margaret Wells, the shrewd businesswoman and brothel proprietor who herself once worked in the trade.

Similarly, the remainder of the ensemble is remarkable, featuring BAFTA-winning actress Lesley Manville and Lord of the Rings star Liv Tyler, alongside Jessica Findlay, Dorothy Atkinson and many other talents.

It’s their performances depicting such diverse characters that enables audiences to connect with their representation of the female experience during that period.

Nestled on Greek Street in the vibrant heart of Soho, the series perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the city’s trade and what life would have been like in central London during that era.

One devoted viewer shared on Rotten Tomatoes: “This show continues to be incredible. Its nonstop, raucous, vibrant, glam energy showcases stories about the most objectified, vulnerable women refusing to relinquish their inner power to a system hell-bent on squashing them beneath its boot heel. These women aren’t perfect, but they inspire. Samantha Morton is amazing.”

Another fanwrote: “If you haven’t checked this show out yet. Please do! You are missing out. Season 2 stepped up its game. I am on the edge of my seat every episode, screaming at the TV like a crazy person.”

One viewer shared: “You will never truly understand the meaning of ‘binge watch’ until you have watched this series. The word ‘captivating’ can only begin to describe this astonishing show!”

Since its debut in 2017, the programme went on to enjoy three triumphant series, all of which garnered glowing praise from television audiences before concluding in 2019.

Despite being warmly welcomed by viewers throughout its run, the show never quite managed to achieve wider recognition through major awards or prestigious nominations, retaining the status of a beloved cult classic.

All episodes of Harlots can now be streamed on both Netflix and Amazon Prime.

SOURCE: EXPRESS