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Even though the Game of Thrones franchise continues to expand on HBO, Disney+ is developing a TV show that’s the fantasy series’ true spiritual successor. Based on the books by George R. R. Martin, Game of Thrones has become so ubiquitous that every high fantasy TV show is compared to it, whether they’re actually similar or not.

Many shows have tried to mimic Game of Thrones’ style and success, but most have failed spectacularly. A few have been moderately well-received. However, the most successful fantasy shows have made themselves distinct from the seminal TV show, rather than trying to act as a spiritual successor. Despite this, the trend continues.

However, for once, there is actually a TV show in development that could succeed not as a replacement but as a spiritual successor to Game of Thrones.

Disney+ Is Adapting The Ring & The Crown By Melissa de la Cruz

One of the most exciting upcoming YA TV shows based on books is The Ring & The Crown by Melissa de la Cruz, which Disney+ picked up. The story follows the aristocracy of different empires and the political heirs who are being forced into arranged marriages to increase power and avoid war. However, none of them want what has been laid out for them, leading to shocking betrayals, magical hijinks, and violence.

Why Game Of Thrones Fans Will Love The Ring & The Crown

Image via HBO

Many upcoming shows have the potential to rival Game of Thrones, but The Ring & The Crown is the only one that feels like a true spiritual successor. The story has a gritty historical-fantasy ambiance, drawing on Arthurian lore. The cast is an ensemble, rather than telling the story of just one or two people.

Rather than focusing on ordinary people, the ensemble is primarily composed of royals and high-power individuals who can affect the peasants. The most notable pairing is Princess Marie-Victoria and the mage Aelwyn Myrddyn. They grew up close friends, but Aelwyn, the born-out-of-wedlock daughter of Merlin, is now a servant of the family.

The book series is packed with all the betrayals, secrets, political conflicts, and secret romances that Game of Thrones fans could want. The story includes violence and death. Sexual assault and childhood molestation are mentioned briefly.

The only thing that will be a little less intense is sex. The book includes two graphic sex scenes, plenty of kissing, and strip poker. It’s titillating with plenty of sexual tension. However, it is technically a YA book, meaning it won’t be anywhere near as intense as Game of Thrones.

What Is The Status Of Disney+’s The Ring & The Crown?

Currently, The Ring & The Crown is in development at Disney+, and even though it’s early on, the project is likely to move forward given Melissa de la Cruz’s past working relationship with Disney. What’s more, the project has some big names attached to the project.

The show is being written by Aaron Harberts and Gretchen J. Berg, the duo who produced Reign, Revenge, and Pushing Daisies. They will also executive produce alongside the author and The Gotham Group. The latter has extensive experience in the fantasy genre, including the shows The Spiderwick Chronicles, Percy Jackson & The Olympians, and Washington Black.

With all these people involved, The Ring & The Crown is shaping up to be a great TV show that Game of Thrones fans can look forward to.