The series is based on the 2004 nonfiction book Catherine de Medici: Renaissance Queen of France by Leonie Frieda.
The story follows a dual timeline. In 1560 France, an adult Catherine (Samantha Morton) recounts her life story to Rahima, a young servant girl, while preparing for her son Charles IX’s coronation. Through flashbacks, we see a 14-year-old orphaned Catherine (Liv Hill) navigate a treacherous path from a convent to the French Royal Court.
The episode title reflects the derogatory name Catherine was called early in her life—one she eventually "earned" on her own terms to survive the court. [S1E1] Medici Bitch
The series utilizes a diverse cast to portray the different stages of Catherine's life and the figures surrounding her: Role Description Samantha Morton The adult Queen of France. Young Catherine Catherine as an orphaned 14-year-old. Pope Clement Charles Dance Catherine's calculating uncle. Prince Henri Alex Heath The young Prince Catherine is forced to marry. Diane de Poitiers Ludivine Sagnier Henri's influential mistress. Rahima Sennia Nanua The servant girl Catherine uses as a confidante. 🏛️ Origins and Style
Catherine’s life is marked by trauma from the start; she was ransacked in Florence and eventually used as a "barter for peace" by the Church. 🎭 Cast & Characters The series is based on the 2004 nonfiction
" Medici Bitch " is the series premiere of the Starz historical drama , which first aired on September 11, 2022. The episode introduces Catherine de’ Medici as the longest-ruling monarch in French history and sets a bold, darkly comedic tone for her rise to power. Episode Summary
Created by Justin Haythe, the show infuses the historical narrative with contemporary wit and "breaking the fourth wall" moments. Through flashbacks, we see a 14-year-old orphaned Catherine
Catherine’s uncle, Pope Clement (Charles Dance), negotiates her marriage to Prince Henri of France to secure a geopolitical alliance and a massive dowry.