'Five stars' period drama that fans can't stop watching branded 'best show this year'

Period drama lovers have been raving about a beloved television series which fans can't stop watching. The 2021 historical drama, created by Frank Spotnitz and Steve Thompson, delves into the life and mind of Leonardo di Vinci, exploring the secrets and drama behind his genius, his work, and his personal struggles. The series focuses on his artistic journey, his restless curiosity about art, science, technology, and his quest for knowledge.

Set in Renaissance Italy, it also explores a murder mystery involving his close friend, Caterina de Cremona (played by Matilda De Angelis), and suggests that Leonardo (Aidan Turner) was a gay outsider who used his art to conceal his true self.

Set in 1506, Leonardo is the most famous artist of his time is accused of murdering his close friend and muse. Questioned by Stefano Giradli, an ambitious officer of the Duchy of Milan, Leonardo begins to tell his life, starting from the first meeting with Caterina in Andrea del Verrocchio's workshop.

Giraldi, fascinated by the artist's personality, begins to suspect that Leonardo may be innocent and investigates the truth. The series, which is available to stream on Amazon Prime, premiered in 2021 and was shot across Italy including scenes in Vinci in Tuscany, Villa D'Este in Tivoli, Palazzo Farnese in Caprarola and Rome.

This isn't the first series the BBC has produced based on the tortured artist, with the broadcaster previously releasing a series by the same name on CBBC starring a teenage version of Leonardo played by Bridgerton's Jonathan Bailey.

Since its launch in 2021, the series premiered in India, Canada, and Spain. Critics have hailed the series since its launch, with the Amazon show boasting an impressive 76% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Although the show was initially renewed for a second series, there are currently no plans for further seasons.

Fans have since showered the period drama with praise online, with one user gushing: "This is one of the best period dramas I have ever seen! I was emmediately caught up in the story. Aidan Turner is fantastic in this role!"

Another agreed: "Excellent cast and crew. Story is very well narrated. Aidan Turner too good in the title role and well justifying. All characters are well written. Watched all 8 episodes in one days. Brilliant! Brilliant! Would recomment as a must watch! 10/10."

A third echoed: "Masterpiece. I loved it so much that I cannot explain. I used to love Aidan Turner for his role in The Hobbit series and now as Leonardo, it was just awesome and mindblowing."