Even The Royals
Wondery
Admit it: you’re obsessed with royal families – watching them, gossiping about them, wanting to be them. It’s the stuff of fantasy. But for real life royals, the crown jewels can be more like shiny handcuffs. There are expectations and rules – and if you break them, the consequences are big, and very public. And no, we’re not just talking about Harry and Meghan. There are royal families and wild royal tales from around the world and throughout history that you have never heard before. From Wondery comes the latest from Even the Rich co-hosts Brooke Siffrinn and Aricia Skidmore-Williams. Even the Royals takes us inside the cloistered world of royal families, past and present, where wealth and status often come at the expense of your freedom – and maybe even your life. In these stories, very human emotions, like jealousy, love, disgust, have the power to reshape the world.Listen to Even The Royals on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/even-the-royals/ now.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 4, 2024 • 41min
Queen Lili’uokalani of Hawai’i Part 1: Girls Just Want to Have Political Autonomy | 11
Queen Lili’uokalani, the last monarch of Hawai’i, was a passionate writer and philanthropist committed to her people. In this engaging discussion, she reflects on the looming threats of American imperialism and her determination to protect her kingdom. Listeners will hear about her difficult childhood experiences in an American boarding school and her struggles with political autonomy. The narrative also delves into the tumultuous political landscape, including the challenges posed by foreign interests and the coup at Iolani Palace.
Feb 26, 2024 • 45min
King Ludwig II of Bavaria Part 2: Unhappily Ever After | 10
King Ludwig II of Bavaria's tragic downfall unfolds as he escapes reality to build grand castles, faces betrayal and imminent arrest, and ultimately meets a mysterious demise. The podcast dives into his inner turmoil, elaborate creations, and the dark secrets surrounding his death.
Feb 19, 2024 • 46min
King Ludwig II of Bavaria Part 1: The Fairytale King | 9
King Ludwig II of Bavaria, known as the 'Fairytale King', funded operas, built castles inspiring Disney. Neglecting duties, he faced betrayal, emotional turmoil, and struggled with leadership decisions. His passion for arts and friendship with Wagner added complexity to his reign.
Feb 12, 2024 • 46min
Princess Stephanie of Monaco: The Wild Child | 8
Princess Stephanie of Monaco, born into royalty, rebels against traditional princess norms, pursuing a singing career, fashion, and modeling, despite family disapproval. Facing public scrutiny and controversial moments, she seeks independence while navigating family tensions and striving for reconciliation.
Feb 5, 2024 • 46min
Grace Kelly Part 2: Princess Interrupted | 7
Grace Kelly's journey from actress to princess is explored, including her relationship with Prince Rainier, concerns about her virginity, and transition from acting to being a wife and mother. The podcast also reflects on her tragic death and highlights the creation of the Princess Grace Foundation.
Jan 29, 2024 • 45min
Grace Kelly Part 1: Fire and Ice | 6
Grace Kelly, a Hollywood icon in the 1950s, sacrificed her own happiness to fit into the box of perfection. This episode explores her struggles with loneliness, her journey to the stage, and her rise to stardom. Grace seeks validation from her family and hopes to win an Oscar, but her path takes an unexpected turn when she meets a prince at the Cannes Film Festival.
Jan 22, 2024 • 45min
Empress Dowager Cixi of China Part 2: Villain Era | 5
Cixi, the formidable empress of China’s Qing dynasty, discusses her ruthless rise from concubine to powerful Regent. In a gripping narrative, she reflects on the heartache of losing loved ones and the chilling execution that propels her desire for revenge. Power struggles in the Forbidden City become increasingly complex with her choice of an empress for her son, amidst external threats and familial loyalty. As she navigates reform and betrayal, Cixi reveals the heavy toll her ambitions exact on her legacy and the future of China.
Jan 15, 2024 • 45min
Empress Dowager Cixi of China Part 1: Coup There It Is | 4
Empress Dowager Cixi, a former concubine who rose to become one of China’s most powerful empresses, reveals her extraordinary journey to power. She shares the tumultuous events of 19th-century Beijing, where chaos and resolve defined her early life. Cixi's strategic rise within a male-dominated court showcases her ambition and cunning. As she navigates love and sacrifice amidst political intrigue, her story becomes one of resilience and determination, challenging societal norms to reshape the empire's future.
Jan 8, 2024 • 45min
Martha Louise of Norway: The Clairvoyant Princess | 3
Martha Louise was born a princess of Norway, but she never truly felt like one. She spends years looking for a place where she can belong. And in true 2023 fashion, this place includes angels, a controversial celebrity shaman and a whole lot of bad press. This is the story of a clairvoyant princess who never felt truly at home in a castle, so she created her own kingdom.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Jan 8, 2024 • 44min
Marie Antoinette Part 2: Fight Song | 2
Marie Antoinette faces dangerous situations and escapes through secret passageways. She tries to improve her image but remains unpopular. Her attempt to escape with the royal family fails. Imprisoned in Paris, she endures captivity and hostility. She faces a shocking accusation in court and fights to preserve her reputation. This is the second episode of a two-part series on Marie Antoinette.
