Watch Henry IX

Henry IX is a delightful sitcom that premiered on Acorn TV in 2017. The show is set in modern-day London and revolves around Henry (played by Ben Ashenden), a charismatic and charming young man who unexpectedly becomes King of England after the tragic deaths of his older brother and father. The show follows Henry's journey as he navigates the challenges of his newfound responsibilities, tries to uphold his brother's legacy, and also attempts to keep his crumbling family together.

One of the most significant aspects of the show is its sense of humor. The writing is witty and clever, enabling the actors to deliver well-timed quips and puns that will make the viewers laugh out loud. Henry IX's humor is largely derived from its characters, who are all unique and fully-formed, with distinct personalities and quirks. Henry, for example, is a lovable but slightly bumbling protagonist who is all heart but not always the most practical decision-maker. His sister, Catherine (played by Sally Phillips), is an overtly-ambitious schemer who is always looking to advance her own interests. Meanwhile, the queen mother (played by Gina Bellman) is a former actress who still craves the spotlight and tries to direct her son's life for her convenience. Overall, the actors deliver fantastic performances that bring these well-drawn characters to life and make the show a joy to watch.

Besides, the show's storyline is also significant, filled with twists, turns, and surprises. Although the show is a comedy, it does touch on some serious issues, such as grief, responsibility, and the pressure of being in the public eye. For example, in one episode, Henry struggles with his brother's death and the burden of stepping into his shoes. In another episode, he grapples with the public's perception of him, as he is labeled "the party king" by the media and struggles to change his image to become a more serious monarch. Furthermore, Henry's relationships, both romantic and familial, are also explored, with the show frequently examining the dynamics between the various members of the royal family. The show's portrayal of Henry's relationship with his mother and Catherine, in particular, is nuanced and multi-dimensional, with the characters often at odds with each other but also displaying moments of genuine affection and understanding.

The show's production design is worth mentioning as well. The sets are impressive, with the royal palace featuring ornate decor and lavish furnishings that immediately transport the viewer into a world of royal opulence. The location shoots are fantastic too, as the show takes viewers all across London, from Buckingham Palace to trendy East London bars, which provide a refreshing contrast to the formality of the royal court.

As a whole, Henry IX is a highly entertaining and easy-to-watch show that is perfect for anyone who is looking for a funny, light-hearted sitcom with a dash of drama. The show's premise might seem unusual at first, but it quickly becomes clear that it is all part of the show's charm, as it provides a fresh perspective on the world of monarchy that viewers might not have seen before. The series is perfect for fans of British comedy and drama, as it blends both genres seamlessly and delivers a fantastic ensemble cast that makes the show an enjoyable watch from start to finish. If you are looking for something to binge-watch over the weekend, Henry IX should definitely be on your list.

In conclusion, Henry IX is a well-written and well-acted show that is genuinely funny and exciting to watch. It is an excellent addition to the Acorn TV catalog, and fans of British comedy and drama will undoubtedly enjoy it. The show is unique, charming, and filled with heart, making it a must-watch for anyone looking for an escape into a fun and engaging world.

Henry IX is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between April 5, 2017 and on Acorn TV