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The BBC's epic period drama The White Queen​ WILL be getting a sequel. Just not on the BBC.



US network Starz has picked up The White Princess​, a follow-up to the award-winning series starring Rebecca Ferguson as ​Elizabeth Woodville.

Based on Philippa Gregory's novel of the same name, the drama centres on the War of the Roses as told from Elizabeth's perspective. Set in 1485, it follows the rise of the House of Tudor and the tricky marriage between Princess Elizabeth of York and King Henry Tudor.

Writer Emma Frost returns as showrunner for the eight-episode project, but the BBC will not be involved in the production. The original series premiered on Starz in the US following its BBC One broadcast in the UK.

"The White Queen was a phenomenal performer at Starz," said its managing director Carmi Zlotnik. "There is a dearth of programming that tells women's stories and The White Queen was embraced with great success by audiences worldwide.

"The passionate fanbase for Philippa Gregory's historical novels are undeniable, and we are confident The White Princess will become the next must-see fandom drama series."

The White Queen​ was nominated for four Emmys and three Golden Globes.

Casting has yet to be announced, and it has not been confirmed whether any of the original stars will return. Rebecca Ferguson and Max Irons played the lead roles in the first run.

​The show got a mixed response from critics in the UK when it launched and has been criticised heavily for its historical inaccuracies.