The little-known series on Netflix has been compared to some of the biggest names in the period drama genre by viewers — and people just can’t get enough.

Fans of witty, playful period dramas can add another gem to their collection, as there’s a lesser-known series on Netflix which is winning over everyone’s affections.

Audiences have described it “part Bridgerton, part Downton Abbey”, and if that doesn’t send period drama devotees rushing to the television, we’re not sure what will.

Spanish comedy-drama The Lady’s Companion, originally titled Manual para señoritas in Spanish, has got viewers captivated with its humour, repartee, excellence, and costume drama mastery.

Developed for television by Gema R Neira and María José Rustarazo, the series initially debuted on Netflix on March 28, 2025.

Co-helmed by Carlos Sedes and Claudia Pinto Emperador, the eight-episode series is garnering praise from all directions, reports the Express.

The period drama features Nadia de Santiago, Álvaro Mel, and Isa Montalbán, Zoe Bonafonte, Iratxe Emparán, and Tristán Ulloa, with the entire ensemble’s portrayals having been commended by audiences and critics alike.

The programme’s official synopsis states: “A romantic comedy set in 1880s Madrid, coinciding with the Alphonsine era and the Restoration period, depicting the social and cultural landscape of the time. Hired to find husbands for three wealthy sisters, chaperone Elena Bianda is drawn into a late 19th-century world of love, scandal and comic intrigue.”

In May 2025, Netflix Spain confirmed the series has been axed and will not be returning for a second season, much to the disappointment of its devoted fanbase. Numerous viewers have taken to the internet and left reviews venting their frustration at the show’s cancellation.

Boasting an impressive 92% audience approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, The Lady’s Companion has been widely praised by viewers, with one fan writing: “This is a must watch. I binged it so quickly as it was so entertaining and had such beautiful love stories woven into the plot!

“The main female lead is so entertaining and funny and the main actor was so charming and handsome ;). The costume and visuals were so pretty and the series was so entertaining to watch. The chemistry between all the couples was on fire. I can’t wait for a season two!”

Another review reads: “Bridget Jones meets Little Women meets Jane Austen, with a hint of Oscar Wilde. Somehow Spain has one-upped the recent Restoration revivals and produced the most charming rom-com in a while.”

While one viewer said: “It’s absolutely bingeable and cheeky. The only thing I didn’t like is the score, too obvious to look modern. Lavish period drama at it best.”

One particularly gutted viewer responded to the cancellation news: “First of all Netflix it makes zero sense to cancel the show for another season, this series is captivating and comedic but also plot twisting and emotional it’s an all rounder! I loved it 10/10.”

While another IMDB review saying the show is “better than Bridgerton” reads: “This is hands down the best show I have come across in 2025. It’s like Bridgeton but better, so many twist and turns, the script is so well written, it’s quirky, up beat and passionate. The actors are brilliant and gorgeous! Excellent choice of music too it really entangles you in the scene. Just brilliant! More shows like this please.”

Another positive user review says: “Absolutely adored binging this snazzy little number from start to finish! The cast? A delightful mix of charming, ridiculously attractive men and sharp, charismatic women. The chemistry was electric, and the witty banter kept me laughing all the way through.

“Part Bridgerton romance, part Downton Abbey grandeur, and sprinkled with that delightful Jane Austen sass, all wrapped up in a sun-soaked, comedic Spanish fiesta.”

Critics were equally taken with the programme, with one saying: “The Lady’s Companion is a highly stylized show, and that’s what sets it apart from the likes of Bridgerton. From the use of colorful, striking fonts to the quirky animated title sequence, every detail adds a unique charm.”

While another reviewer said: “The Lady’s Companion is delightfully juicy and thoroughly bingeable, thanks to the sweet characters and their fantastic performances.”

The Lady’s Companion is currently available to stream on Netflix.