The Future of ITV’s Historical Drama, Victoria

Fans of the ITV period drama Victoria faced disappointment when the show was officially canceled before the anticipated fourth season could unfold. However, the possibility of its return remains open. Premiering in 2016, this acclaimed series focuses on the life story of Queen Victoria (played by Jenna Coleman), tracing her journey from the commencement of her reign, mirroring the narrative style of The Crown about Queen Elizabeth II. Crafted as a part of the PBS Masterpiece anthology in collaboration with ITV, Victoria weaves an engaging and romantic tapestry of historical events.

Each season of Victoria encapsulates key moments in the queen’s life. The inaugural season covers 1837 to 1840, introducing viewers to her marriage with Prince Albert (portrayed by Tom Hughes) and the birth of their first child, Victoria, Princess Royal. The second season spans from 1840 to 1849, highlighting pivotal events such as the Anglo-Afghan War and the famine in Ireland during the 1840s. Season three, set between 1849 and 1851, concluded on a cliffhanger, lingering with unresolved tensions that fans hoped to see addressed in season four.

ITV’s Current Position on Victoria Season 4

Could Victoria Make a Comeback?

In July 2021, ITV announced the cancellation of Victoria, leaving fans disheartened after a long wait following the third season’s conclusion (source: RadioTimes). Despite this, ITV’s statement about the series was noticeably ambiguous:

“There are no plans presently to film Victoria, but that’s not to say we won’t revisit the series with the production team at a later date.”

This type of ambiguous wording from a network is quite unusual, as networks typically present clearer announcements regarding cancellations. This vagueness may imply that there are potential opportunities for Victoria to return. As we approach 2025, it’s been nearly four years since the cancellation, but hope for a revival could still linger among devoted fans.

Jenna Coleman Reflects on Season 4 Cancellation

Coleman Enthusiastic Yet Realistic About Future

While Jenna Coleman has not addressed the official cancellation that occurred in 2021, she provided insights in 2019 regarding a hiatus following the third season (source: DigitalSpy):

“It’s definitely going to take a break, bit of a breather and then we’re working out…there’s a lot of conversations, do you start at the Crimean War, or do you start later? I mean there’s too much story, unless I literally did commit until I am 63.”

This extended hiatus has led to uncertainty surrounding the show’s future. In a later interview, Coleman emphasized that there remains an abundance of material to explore regarding Queen Victoria’s life (source: Tatler):

“There may be another series… There’s too much of a good story.”

Indeed, history has provided a rich narrative with Queen Victoria, who was the longest-reigning monarch until Queen Elizabeth II. However, Coleman’s rising star may complicate the possibility of her returning for another season.

Where Are the Victoria Cast Members Now?

Tom Hughes Open to a Return in Season 4

Despite the series’ conclusion, the Victoria cast has remained active in various projects. Jenna Coleman has stayed busy, taking on roles in Wilderness, The Jetty, and The Serpent, in addition to appearing in films like Jackdaw and All of You. Anna Wilson-Jones is featured in Bridgerton, while Rufus Sewell plays a lead role in The Diplomat. Tom Hughes, known for his recent role in the 2024 series Those About to Die, has expressed a willingness to return to Victoria, stating:

“I’ve always had my eye on the end result because, as far as I’m concerned, even if we only made one season, I need to portray that part of the man’s whole existence. So, yeah, if there’s an appetite, then it would be really nice to finish the story.”

If the fourth season of Victoria comes to fruition, it appears that key actors such as Coleman and Hughes are on board to reprise their beloved roles.

For further information, you can explore this source.