VERSAILLES
BBC2, 9pm As this third and final series begins, things are going pretty darn well for King Louis XIV.
France has triumphed over the Protestant Dutch and their allies – thanks in no small part to his kick-ass fighter brother Philippe – and his magnificent palace is finally complete.
He wastes no time in showing off his newest, blingiest room – a grand hall complete with dozens of ornate chandeliers and a painted ceiling.
Not exactly in the best of taste when his people are starving. But like any megalomaniac, all this success just makes Louis want more.
Next, he shares his plans to extend the empire with his brother and the council. Although Philippe’s a bit preoccupied with meeting his baby son, and rekindling things with his lover Chevalier.
Meanwhile, Guillaume is more than happy to be rewarded by the King for his bravery in battle, until he sees how his poor family and friends (complete with Northern accents) are struggling.