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4 glamorous period dramas like ‘Downton Abbey’ now streaming

Sit back, relax, and pretend to live the life of a well-to-do character in these four glamorous period dramas now streaming about “upstairs-downstairs” life.

“Downton Abbey” rekindled our love for period dramas and the comparison of what it was like to live a wealthy life “upstairs” versus running the kitchen and housework from “downstairs.” On May 20 the saga continues with the series’ second feature film, “Downton Abbey: A New Era,” so get ready for more drama, memorable costumes, and favorite characters. But until then, here are some other glamorous period dramas you can stream right now with WTIU PBS Passport.

Watch these series now with WTIU Passport, an unlimited streaming benefit available to every WTIU member who contributes at least $5 a month or $60 annually. 

Ready to get started? Click any of the links below to sign in and start watching or download the free PBS Video App on your Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, newer Samsung Smart TV or Android TV. You can also watch on your computer, phone or tablet to get lost in these enthralling dramas.

Not sure if you’re eligible? Check to see if you're an eligible member hereactivate your account here, or give now to get access to this fantastic member benefit. When you give, you can also select a Roku streaming device to watch WTIU PBS Passport as our thanks with your qualifying donation.


Upstairs, Downstairs

Seasons 1 and 2 now streaming

If “Downton Abbey” is your favorite series, don’t miss its predecessor, “Upstairs, Downstairs.” There’s no story connection, but it’s the same concept at a 1930s London townhouse with glamorous lives and stories happening upstairs and beloved characters running the home from downstairs. “Upstairs, Downstairs” is a revival of the iconic ‘70s series of the same name, and the full two seasons are now available to stream for members with access to WTIU PBS Passport.

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Hotel Portofino

Premieres June 19

Escape to the Italian Riviera for drama and mystery with “Hotel Portofino.” It’s set in the breathtakingly beautiful resort town of Portofino in the aftermath of World War I. You’ll experience what life is like for those running the hotel, but also what it’s like to spend your money and time on a beautiful vacation. The series broadcast premiere is June 19, and WTIU PBS Passport members can binge the full 6-episode series that night.

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Seaside Hotel

All 8 Seasons now streaming with WTIU PBS Passport

Romance, scandal, beautiful seaside views … “Seaside Hotel” is another vacation-inspired glamorous drama now streaming. The Danish show is an entertaining look at the relationships and lives of rich vacationers and hardworking staff at a North Sea resort. All eight seasons of are available to members with WTIU PBS Passport, so you can really spend some streaming time with these memorable characters.

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Sanditon

Seasons 1 and 2 now streaming

Venture to one more resort town with “Sanditon.” Charlotte Heywood is new to the resort and is learning the in’s and out’s of running a business and the social ladder. She’s an enjoyable down-to-earth contrast to many of the resort guests but is also fun to accompany to a fancy ball.

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Downton Abbey

Seasons 1 through 6 now streaming

Of course, you can still stream all episodes of "Downton Abbey" on WTIU PBS Passport. It's the ultimate comfort show for so many ... and for good reasons. 

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All these – plus more! – are at pbs.org/video, or download the free PBS Video App on your Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, newer Samsung Smart TV or Android TV. You can also watch on your computer, phone or tablet.