The Royals: A History of Scandals

Was the infamous disappearance of the Princes in the Tower a murder, or a fallacy?

Professor Suzannah Lipscomb looks into four sex scandals that dragged the reputations of certain historical royals through the gutter. She reveals how the multiple-partner sexual shenanigans of the Georgian court helped to fuel the newly formed British tabloid newspapers. And she investigates the case of 13-year-old King James VI of Scotland, who was allegedly groomed by his uncle.

Suzannah explores the complex and curious connections between the British royal family and the world of witchcraft. She explores how Queen Elizabeth I tried to predict the future and asked alchemists to find her the 'real' philosopher's stone. Suzannah also reveals how two British queens were accused of witchcraft, with one of them accused of being related to a mermaid.

Professor Suzannah Lipscomb delves deep to investigate how members of the British royal family, over many centuries, have been both victims and perpetrators of criminal acts. She explores how Henry VIII and his ministers managed to manipulate the law and convict two of his wives of treason, and also investigates the master of disguise who attempted to steal the Crown Jewels.

Professor Suzannah Lipscomb looks into some shocking examples of epic royal spending. Throughout history, monarchs have needed to appear magnificent to impress the nation and set them apart from the hoi polloi. And this has led to some serious cash being splashed. But what made King George IV's coronation so expensive and extravagant, that it ended a 1000-year tradition?

Suzannah Lipscomb uncovers scandalous historic royal affairs that outraged the public or were hidden away to avoid an outcry. She investigates how an affair between a royal prince and a famous actor shocked Georgian society and led to a barrage of negative press… and 10 illegitimate children. She also unearths the strange relationship between Queen Elizabeth I and her stepfather.