When the CW historical drama Reign premiered in October 2013, it offered viewers a stylized, fast-paced reimagining of Mary Stuart's early years in the French court. Rather than aiming for dry historical accuracy, the series leaned into court intrigue, romance, and lavish period costumes. At the center of its enduring popularity was a breakout ensemble cast that anchored four seasons of political turmoil. Looking back at the actors who launched the series in 2013 reveals how their careers evolved long after the royal court closed its doors.
Adelaide Kane stepped into the demanding lead role of Mary, Queen of Scots, carrying the show through its political alliances, betrayals, and shifting power structures. Alongside her, seasoned performers and fresh faces formed an ensemble that defined a specific era of teen-targeted network television. Examining where these actors started and what they did next highlights the lasting footprint of the series.
Adelaide Kane as Mary Stuart
As the titular Scottish monarch, Adelaide Kane anchored Reign with a blend of youthful idealism and political grit. When the series began, Kane was already building her television résumé with guest roles on shows like Teen Wolf, but Reign marked her first major American network lead. Her portrayal captured Mary's transition from an optimistic bride arriving in France to a hardened queen fighting to reclaim her homeland.
After Reign wrapped its four-season run in 2017, Kane transitioned smoothly into other prominent television franchises. She joined the cast of MTV's Teen Wolf as Cora Hale for earlier arcs, and later secured major recurring roles in high-profile series. She played Ivy Belfrey (Drizella) in the final season of ABC's Once Upon a Time and later joined the medical drama Grey's Anatomy as Dr. Jules Millin. Her ability to transition from period costume dramas to contemporary medical and fantasy settings solidified her status as a reliable television staple.
Megan Follows as Queen Catherine de' Medici
Megan Follows brought gravitas and calculating brilliance to the role of Queen Catherine de' Medici. Already a beloved figure in Canadian television for her iconic portrayal of Anne Shirley in the 1985 Anne of Green Gables miniseries, Follows gave Reign its sharpest dramatic edge. Her Catherine was ruthless, pragmatic, and fiercely protective of her royal lineage, delivering some of the series' most memorable dialogue and Machiavellian plots.
Following her tenure on Reign, Follows continued working extensively in both acting and directing. She stepped behind the camera to direct multiple episodes of Reign during its later seasons, kickstarting a secondary career as a television director. She directed episodes of shows like Reign, The Republic of Doyle, and Anne with an E, while also taking on acting projects such as Netflix's October Faction. Her career reflects a seamless shift from childhood stardom to respected adult character actor and director.
Toby Regbo as Prince Francis
Toby Regbo played Prince Francis, the heir to the French throne and Mary's primary romantic and political partner during the early seasons. Regbo portrayed Francis with an internal conflict, balancing personal loyalty to Mary against his heavy duty to the French crown. His chemistry with Adelaide Kane formed the emotional backbone of the show's first two seasons.
Once his character's arc concluded on Reign, Regbo pivoted toward major fantasy and historical projects. He appeared as a young Albus Dumbledore in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, bringing him into a massive global blockbuster franchise. On television, he took on significant roles in series like the historical drama The Last Kingdom as Aethelred, and historical fiction projects such as Medici. His career choice highlights a clear affinity for period pieces and high-budget fantasy storytelling.
Torrance Coombs as Sebastian Bash de Poitiers
Torrance Coombs portrayed Sebastian "Bash" de Poitiers, King Henry's illegitimate son and a brooding protector figure within the French court. Bash offered a bridge between the royal nobility and the supernatural folklore lurking in the surrounding French forests during the show's first two seasons. Coombs brought an accessible charm to the character, making him a fan favorite in the early love triangles.
After departing Reign ahead of its final seasons, Coombs moved on to several notable television projects. He starred in the period drama Still Star-Crossed produced by Shonda Rhimes, playing Count Paris. He also appeared in the CW superhero universe with a recurring role in DC's Legends of Tomorrow as Obsidian, alongside appearances in various independent films and television movies.
Celina Sinden and the Supporting Court
Reign relied heavily on its supporting ladies-in-waiting, who served as Mary's confidantes and agents of court gossip. Celina Sinden played Lady Greer, whose storyline evolved from a sheltered noblewoman into an independent businesswoman running a Parisian brothel after falling from grace. Sinden's subtle performance made Greer one of the show's most quietly resilient characters.
Outside of Reign, Sinden has maintained a more selective profile in the industry, occasionally appearing in independent film projects and British television. Alongside co-stars like Anna Popplewell (Lola) and Caitlin Stasey (Kenna), the ensemble shaped a distinct visual and emotional identity for the series that fans still discuss online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I stream Reign?
Streaming availability for Reign varies by region, but the series is frequently hosted on major subscription platforms like Netflix or available for digital purchase through storefronts like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.
Why did Reign end after four seasons?
The CW cancelled Reign in 2017 due to declining live-ratings during its fourth season. However, the network gave the production team advance notice, allowing them to craft a definitive series finale that wrapped up Mary Stuart's historical narrative.
How historically accurate was the CW series Reign?
Reign was explicitly designed as historical fantasy rather than a documentary. The show took massive creative liberties with timelines, character personalities, and events, prioritizing dramatic flair, modern pop soundtracks, and elaborate costume design over strict historical facts.
Did the main cast win any awards for Reign?
While the series did not sweep major traditional awards, it earned multiple Teen Choice Award nominations, and the cast developed a passionate global fan base that sustained engagement long after the show ended.
