Victoria season 2: Jenna Coleman drama reveals Queen's real-life heartbreaking baby secret
VICTORIA season two’s first episode may have revealed a shocking piece of the Queen and her first baby’s history that left viewers stunned.
Dame Diana Rigg stars in second series of Victoria
One scene in episode one of the ITV period drama, called A Soldier’s Daughter, saw Victoria visit her baby girl (Victoria the second) in the nursery alone, but it became apparent that she was struggling to connect with her daughter when her departing mistress of the clothes Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland (played by Margaret Clunie), joined.
The subdued Queen was watching her newborn sleep when the Duchess asked for permission to enter so she could say goodbye as she was due to leave her post.
“I wanted to see the princess before I go,” she said softly.
Yet Victoria’s response hinted at a great deal of inner turmoil when she said with a frown: “I like watching her sleep.”
Victoria spoilers: Jenna Coleman's Victoria revealed a heartbreaking secret in the first episode
Victoria spoilers: Victoria seemed subdued and almost wary of her newborn in the episode
Victoria spoilers: Victoria has struggled to bond with her baby so far
Did you like them? Straight away?
Seeming to understand that the Queen was experiencing difficulty bonding with her child, Harriet said encouragingly: “When my children were babies it was my favourite time too.”
But the Queen didn’t hold back with her friend as she whispered: “Did you like them? Straight away?”
“I was pleased they were healthy, I would have killed anyone who caused them any harm. But like them I think that comes later ma’am,” Harriet responded with a smile.
The Duchess added reassuringly: “Having a baby is a sacrifice as well as a blessing.”
Victoria spoilers: Harriet seemed worried about the Queen but tried to advise her
Victoria spoilers: The Queen seemed afraid to admit she was struggling
Trailer for the second season of ITV's Victoria
While the series has taken liberties to suggest that Queen Victoria had faced a bout of postpartum depression during her life and reign, it’s safe to assume that if it was the case, the new mother wouldn’t have been aware of the seriousness of what she felt or how many women went through the illness in the 1840s.
The ITV series’ second chapter shows Jenna Coleman’s monarch in a whole new light, as viewers will witness the outspoken royal attempt to juggle her stately duties and being a mother.
The second offering also features a host of new characters, including the introduction of Dame Diana Rigg, along with the return of Rufus Sewell’s Prime Minister Lord Melbourne.
Victoria continues Sunday at 9pm on ITV.