The Tudors

In the third decade of Henry VIII's reign, during a sweltering summer, the aging king marries his fifth wife, the young and attractive Katherine Howard, whose humble origins draw attention and inappropriate interest, particularly from Thomas Culpepper, one of the king's court servants.

Thomas Culpepper, a new servant to Henry VIII, becomes increasingly attracted to the king's young wife, Katherine Howard, with encouragement from her servant. As the king retires early during the Christmas festivities, the younger members of the court indulge in merriment and mischief.

Henry, now more compassionate due to his marriage to a young wife, shows leniency toward the northern rebels during a royal visit, winning their gratitude. However, his goodwill is challenged when his new queen, Katherine Howard, is involved in a scandalous affair with Thomas Culpepper.

Henry, invigorated by a journey through northern England, is drawn to his new wife, Queen Katherine, unaware of her divided loyalties. Katherine's past resurfaces when an old lover seeks employment and hints at their history, soon followed by an anonymous letter accusing her of adultery. Though skeptical, Henry imprisons Katherine in her quarters while an investigation unfolds.

Lord Hertford's inquiry into claims of the Queen's infidelity progresses rapidly. Henry is deeply distressed upon learning of his wife's past, but once evidence of adultery surfaces, he reacts with immediate and firm action.

Henry, now divorced again, considers his legacy and initiates a new law to reinstate his daughters Elizabeth and Mary in the line of succession. Turning his attention to the appealing Catherine Parr, an upcoming widow, he sees in her a more suitable and experienced partner following his troubled previous marriage.

Henry VIII marries Catherine Parr, his sixth and final wife, who is regarded as a kind and empathetic figure at court, though she faces suspicion from Bishop Gardiner, who views her as a potential heretic. Meanwhile, Henry begins making preparations for a military campaign in France.

Henry's forces achieve a hard-won victory at the siege of Boulogne, though at significant expense in both money and lives. With the campaign concluded, Henry chooses to return to England rather than pursue further military ambitions.

Henry VIII's health deteriorates following the physical strain of the Boulogne siege, with a painful ulcer on his leg causing ongoing suffering. Although Bishop Gardiner and the Catholic Church regain influence at court, Henry shows little interest in Gardiner's accusations against Catherine Parr, who is charged with heresy.

Henry grapples with the reality of his own mortality as news arrives of the impending deaths of King Francis and Charles Brandon. In a moment of reflection, he is visited by the spectral figures of his former wives, each offering their own judgment. The episode concludes with Hans Holbein capturing Henry's likeness in a final, enduring portrait.