In My Lady Jane, “The Affliction” takes center stage, weaving a tale around a major disease that adds a dramatic twist to the narrative.
Drawing inspiration from the historical figure Lady Jane Grey, famously known as the Nine Days Queen, My Lady Jane ventures into a fantastical realm where history meets magic and fantasy. It cleverly intertwines real-world events with imaginative elements, offering readers a whimsical take on a pivotal period in English history.
One of the central figures in this whimsical adventure is King Edward VI, who reigned over England during the mid-16th century until his untimely demise. In the world of My Lady Jane, this role is brought to life by Jordan Peters, embodying the young monarch amidst a backdrop of intrigue, disease, and magical happenings.
The Affliction in My Lady Jane explained
In Amazon Prime Video’s adaptation of My Lady Jane, the core storyline revolves around a gripping disease affecting Jordan Peters’ portrayal of King Edward VI. However, the series takes some thrilling twists on the historical narrative.
Historical records recount that the real King Edward VI fell ill in January 1553, initially with a fever and cough that persisted and debilitated him. Despite brief recoveries, the illness recurred over several months until his death in July 1553, at the tender age of 15. My Lady Jane reimagines these events with creative liberties.
In the series, depicted at age 16, King Edward VI suffers from “The Affliction,” marked by symptoms like coughing blood, fatigue, and body pains. These afflictions compel him to confront the urgent task of selecting a successor to the throne.
Adding to the intrigue, Edward’s sister Mary Tudor, portrayed as a vehement opponent of Ethians (humans with shape-shifting abilities), harbors ambitions to secure the throne amid her brother’s illness. She believes her ascension is inevitable, fueled by her disdain for Ethians and a desire to maintain human supremacy.
However, My Lady Jane takes a dramatic turn when it reveals that Edward’s symptoms are not due to a natural illness but rather a result of poisoning orchestrated by those close to him, including Mary Tudor. Motivated by political ambition and personal vendettas, they aim to manipulate the throne for their own gains.
Fortunately, Edward finds an ally in his sister Elizabeth, who aids him in escaping the palace to seek a cure and safety from the treachery surrounding him.
Speaking about his character’s journey with Radio Times, Jordan Peters hinted at the complexities Edward faces, portraying him as a young king burdened by constant illness and the pressures of rulership. Edward yearns for a normal life, away from the responsibilities of royalty, aspiring to love and adventure.
“My character is loosely based on King Edward VI, a young king who struggled constantly with illness,” Peters shared. “In our version, he is a king who is yearning to live a normal life. He wants to fall in love, to experience adventures, to not be burdened by the pressures of being king. However, certain people at court use these desires to take advantage of him.”
While My Lady Jane deviates from historical accuracy in its narrative twists, the portrayal of “The Affliction” remains pivotal, driving the plot forward much like it did in real life.
Catch My Lady Jane streaming now on Amazon Prime Video for a spellbinding take on history with a fantastical twist.
