James VI’s dad may well have been queer – if the messy gay chaos of his life is anything to go by
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In a time long past, when kings and queens ruled the land, the stories of the British royal family were not always what they seemed. Hidden beneath the surface of history lies a tapestry woven with threads of LGBTQ+ individuals, their lives intertwined with the grandeur of royalty.
One such tale comes to life in the new period drama “Mary & George,” a story based on true events. The show follows the Countess of Buckingham, Mary, portrayed by the talented Julianne Moore. When faced with the impending collapse of her social standing following her husband’s death, Mary devises a plan involving her son George, played by Nicholas Galitzine, and England’s King James I, portrayed by Tony Curran.
History tells us that King James I, also known as James VI in Scotland, was a man who expressed his love for George in intimate ways. Letters filled with passion and a portrait depicting the king holding his heart in his hand all point to a romantic relationship between the two men. In modern terms, King James VI would be considered queer, adding another layer to the complex history of the British monarchy.
But what about King James’ father, Lord Darnley? Was he also a member of the LGBTQ+ community? The evidence suggests that Lord Darnley may have been gay, bisexual, or queer. Born Henry Stuart, he married Mary Queen of Scots in 1564 and was proclaimed king consort. However, Darnley’s reign was marked by a lack of regal authority and rumors of his indulgence in what was considered “unmanly pleasures.”
Historical accounts point to a close relationship between Darnley and David Rizzio, an Italian musician in Mary’s court. Some sources suggest that their connection was of a sexual nature, further fueling speculation about Darnley’s sexuality. Additionally, Darnley’s infidelity with both men and women adds to the narrative of his potential bisexuality.
The turbulent life of Lord Darnley took a tragic turn when he orchestrated the murder of Rizzio in a fit of jealousy. The royal love triangle between Darnley, Mary, and Rizzio culminated in a violent act that ultimately led to Darnley’s demise in a mysterious explosion. While Darnley’s actions were far from heroic, his story serves as a reminder that LGBTQ+ individuals have always existed throughout history.
In popular culture, Darnley’s relationships have been depicted in films such as “Mary, Queen of Scots” and “Mary Queen of Scots,” shining a light on the complexities of his personal life. Despite his flaws and misdeeds, Darnley’s presumed bisexuality adds another layer to the diverse tapestry of LGBTQ+ history.
As we delve deeper into the past, we uncover stories of love, betrayal, and intrigue within the royal courts. The lives of figures like Lord Darnley and King James I reveal a rich history of LGBTQ+ individuals who navigated the complexities of their identities amidst the opulence of royalty.
In “Mary & George,” viewers are transported to a world where secret romances and hidden desires shape the course of history. The show captures the essence of a time when love knew no bounds, even within the confines of royal expectations. Available on Sky Atlantic and NOW in the UK, “Mary & George” invites audiences to explore a world where passion and power collide in a tale as old as time.
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