
The Empress, one of the best period pieces on Netflix, is back for a new season of intense palace intrigue, breathtaking gowns, and sexy romance among the Hapsburg royals. The German-language romance series debuted on Netflix in September 2022, introducing fans to the headstrong Empress Elisabeth (a.k.a. "Sisi") of Austria as she fell in love with and wed Emperor Franz Joseph I. The show quickly won acclaim and a passionate fanbase, even taking home the International Emmy for Best Drama. (More importantly, Sisi's wedding dress was immediately considered a contender for the best TV looks of all time.)
After season 1 depicts Elisabeth's struggles to adjust to the harsh standards of life at court, season 2 jumps ahead to the birth of her second child when the royal family's legacy is in danger. Since season 2 recently debuted on Netflix on November 22, we're breaking down the show's cast. Below, find a guide to the talented German actors bringing The Empress to life.