Versailles TV Show Cast: 10 Steamy Details You Didn't Know

The Glamorous Cast of Versailles

The television series Versailles, set in the opulent court of King Louis XIV, boasts a stellar cast that brings the grandeur and drama of 17th-century France to life. From the king himself to his courtiers, mistresses, and advisors, the characters of Versailles are as captivating as the lavish setting.

1. George Blagden as King Louis XIV

British actor George Blagden portrays the enigmatic and flamboyant monarch, Louis XIV. Known as the "Sun King," Louis was a complex ruler who presided over a period of unprecedented artistic and cultural achievement while also waging wars and suppressing religious dissent. Blagden's portrayal captures the king's charisma, ambition, and vulnerability.

2. Alexander Vlahos as Philippe, Duke of Orléans

Alexander Vlahos plays Louis' younger brother, Philippe, the Duke of Orléans. Philippe is a libertine and a notorious womanizer, but he is also a loyal brother and a skilled military commander. Vlahos' portrayal showcases Philippe's charm, wit, and his inner conflict.

3. Tygh Runyan as André Le Nôtre

Tygh Runyan portrays André Le Nôtre, the brilliant landscape architect who designed the magnificent gardens of Versailles. Le Nôtre was a visionary artist who transformed the palace grounds into a symbol of French power and grandeur. Runyan's performance captures the man's creativity and his passion for his craft.

4. Stuart Bowman as Bontemps

Stuart Bowman plays Bontemps, Louis' valet and close confidant. Bontemps is a loyal and discreet servant but also a ruthless and ambitious man. Bowman's portrayal highlights Bontemps' complex motivations and his ability to navigate the treacherous waters of court life.

5. Anna Brewster as Françoise-Athénaïs, Marquise de Montespan

Anna Brewster stars as Françoise-Athénaïs, Marquise de Montespan, Louis' most famous mistress. Montespan was a beautiful and intelligent woman who wielded considerable influence over the king and the court. Brewster's performance conveys Montespan's allure, cunning, and her determination to rise above her humble origins.

6. Evan Williams as Chevalier de Lorraine

Evan Williams plays the Chevalier de Lorraine, Louis' flamboyant and hedonistic courtier. Lorraine is a notorious gambler, womanizer, and a close ally of Philippe. Williams' portrayal captures the character's roguish charm and his ability to thrive in the debauched atmosphere of Versailles.

7. Maddison Jaizani as Alba

Maddison Jaizani portrays Alba, a maid of honor to Queen Maria Theresa. Alba is a beautiful and ambitious young woman who becomes entangled in the court's political and romantic intrigues. Jaizani's performance showcases Alba's intelligence, resilience, and her determination to escape the confines of her station.

8. David Bowles as François-Henri de Montmorency-Bouteville

David Bowles plays François-Henri de Montmorency-Bouteville, a young nobleman who becomes a close confidant of Louis. Montmorency is a brave and loyal soldier, but he is also a man of honor and principle. Bowles' portrayal captures the character's idealism, his loyalty to the king, and his struggle to navigate the complexities of court life.

9. Jessica Clark as Henriette, Princess Palatine

Jessica Clark plays Henriette, Princess Palatine, the sister-in-law of Louis. Henriette is a quick-witted and independent woman who challenges the prevailing social norms and refuses to conform to the strictures of court life. Clark's portrayal showcases Henriette's intelligence, strength, and her desire for a life beyond the confines of the palace.

10. Geoffrey Rush as Louvois

Geoffrey Rush portrays Louvois, the influential Minister of War under Louis XIV. Louvois is a ruthless and ambitious man who sees war as a means of expanding French power. Rush's performance captures the character's intelligence, his political acumen, and his unwavering loyalty to the king.

Beyond the Screen: Intriguing Facts about the Cast

In addition to their captivating performances in Versailles, the show's cast has a wealth of interesting facts and anecdotes to share:

• George Blagden is a classically trained musician who has played the piano since he was a child.
• Alexander Vlahos is a graduate of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
• Tygh Runyan is a Canadian actor who has appeared in a number of television shows and films, including The Tudors and The Astronaut Wives Club.
• Stuart Bowman is a Scottish actor who has starred in numerous stage and screen productions, including the National Theatre's production of Hamlet.
• Anna Brewster is a British actress who has appeared in a variety of television and film roles, including the BBC series Ripper Street.
• Evan Williams is a Welsh actor who has starred in the films My Week with Marilyn and The Crown.
• Maddison Jaizani is an Australian actress who has appeared in the television series American Crime Story: The Assassination of Gianni Versace.
• David Bowles is a British actor who has starred in the films The Theory of Everything and The Crown.
• Jessica Clark is a British actress who has starred in the television series Endeavour and Penny Dreadful.
• Geoffrey Rush is an Oscar-winning actor who has starred in the films Shine, The King's Speech, and Pirates of the Caribbean.

The Impact of Versailles on Popular Culture

Versailles has had a significant impact on popular culture, introducing a new generation of viewers to the opulent and fascinating world of 17th-century France. The show has sparked renewed interest in the history of the period and has inspired a number of books, articles, and online discussions.

Versailles has also had a positive impact on the tourism industry in France, with many visitors eager to see the locations featured in the show. The Palace of Versailles, in particular, has seen a significant increase in visitors since the show premiered.

Conclusion

The cast of Versailles brings the grandeur and drama of 17th-century France to life, captivating viewers with their compelling performances and intriguing characters. From the enigmatic King Louis to his flamboyant mistress, the show's cast has created a vibrant and unforgettable world that continues to inspire and intrigue audiences around the globe.