Joely Richardson cast as the final Tudors queen

Showtime announced today that Joely Richardson will share the throne with Jonathan Rhys Meyers on the final season of The Tudors, having signed on to play Katherine Parr to his Henry VIII.

The Nip/Tuck actress reportedly beat out Gillian Anderson and several other A-listers for the part.

Richardson’s five seasons  Nip/Tuck have earned her two  Golden Globe nominations. The actress belongs to an English theatrical dynasty that includes her mother, Vanessa Redgrave, father, director Tony Richardson, aunt Lynn Redgrave and sister, the late Natasha Richardson. Her film credits include The Patriot, I’ll Do Anything, and most recently, the children’s fantasy film, The Last Mimzy.

What do you think, Showtime Fans? Katherine Parr was supposed to be Henry’s best partner as a wife – an older woman who, though she truly loved another man, kept the drama to a minimum and supported the aging king in the winter of his reign. Is Richardson a good choice? Or would you rather have seen Anderson or another actress in the role?

Image: Pacific Coast News