“The Great” is a satirical comedy-drama TV series created by Tony McNamara, loosely based on the life of Catherine the Great, the longest-reigning female ruler of Russia. The show stars Elle Fanning as Catherine and Nicholas Hoult as Emperor Peter III. It is known for its dark humor, sharp writing, and lavish production design.
The Great – Season 1 – TV Series – Summary
Season 1 of “The Great” introduces Catherine, a young and optimistic Austrian woman, who arrives in Russia to marry Emperor Peter III. Catherine dreams of a life filled with love, progress, and enlightenment, but her new reality is far from the fairy tale she imagined. Peter is a self-centered, childish, and often cruel ruler whose incompetence becomes increasingly clear to Catherine.
As Catherine adapts to the chaotic Russian court, she realizes the empire needs drastic reform—and that she may be the only one capable of enacting it. Disillusioned with her husband, she begins to plot a coup to overthrow him and become Empress in her own right. The season balances Catherine’s growth into a scheming, determined leader with her struggles to navigate court politics, build alliances, and maintain her humanity.
The Great – Season 1 – Trailer
The Great – Season 2 – TV Series – Summary
In Season 2 of “The Great”, Catherine has successfully staged her coup and is now the ruler of Russia—or almost. While Peter has been deposed, he remains a presence in her life, confined yet still influential in unexpected ways. Catherine sets out to implement her vision of a progressive, enlightened Russia, but she quickly learns that ruling is far more complicated than she anticipated.
Faced with resistance from the nobles, the church, and her own inner circle, Catherine struggles to balance her idealism with the harsh realities of governance. Her relationship with Peter also evolves into a mix of rivalry, unexpected camaraderie, and unresolved feelings, adding layers of complexity to her rule.
The Great – Season 2 – Trailer
The Great – Season 3 – TV Series – Summary
Season 3 of The Great explores the aftermath of Peter III’s death and Catherine’s challenges as she solidifies her reign. With tensions rising, Catherine confronts a rebellion led by Pugachev, a lookalike posing as Peter. As Catherine grapples with self-doubt and political intrigue, her advisers present conflicting strategies.
The season sees dramatic events like poisonings, Russian roulette, and a climactic confrontation with Pugachev. Ultimately, Catherine reaffirms her authority, though not without personal and political costs. The season balances dark humor with intense political drama.
The Great – Season 3 – Trailer
