THE TUDORS focuses on the rarely dramatized, tumultuous early years of King Henry VIII's nearly 40-year omnipotent reign (1509-1547). In addition to dalliances with famous female consorts Catherine of Aragon and the infamous Anne Boleyn, the series delves into Henry's most notable political relationships, including those with philosopher Sir Thomas More, Cardinal Wolsey, head of the Catholic Church of England during its break with Rome, and Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk and Henry VIII's closest friend. The new BBC drama series THE TUDORS, stars Golden Globe®-winner Jonathan Rhys-Meyers ("Mission: Impossible III," "Match Point," "Elvis") as a young Henry VIII. Emmy® and Golden Globe®-nominated actor Sam Neill ("Jurassic Park," "Little Fish"), Jeremy Northam (CBS' "Martin & Lewis," "The Net," "Gosford Park") and Henry Cavill ("Tristan & Isolde") also make up the cast.

Michael Hirst is an English screenwriter and producer, best known for his films Elizabeth and Elizabeth: The Golden Age, as well as the Emmy Award-winning television series The Tudors and Vikings.