For the first time a black actress as historical Queen Anne Boleyn in drama series

Jodie Turner-Smith (34) becomes the first black actress to play Anne Boleyn’s role in a film or TV role. She will be featured in a new drama series about The Tudors’ era on UK’s Channel 5.

“We want to show the story of Anne Boleyn from a feminist point of view,” the makers of the series say. “And we want to go against all conventions. Why should a black actress not be able to play the role of Anne in 2020?.” Previously, the role was only played by white women, as Anne came from a white family.

Anne Boleyn was the second wife of the infamous Tudor King Henry VIII. Initially his official mistress, she got Henry divorced from his first wife, forcing him to renounce the Catholic Church for good. Eventually, Henry charged her with adultery, and she was executed for high treason in 1536.

The new drama series does not reveal its name yet, but the recordings have already started. Jodie Turner-Smith was spotted there in her new costume.