World Without End (2012)
A sweeping medieval miniseries set in Kingsbridge, where courage, faith, and rebellion collide against the might of Church and Crown.
World Without End - Series Information
- Original Title: World Without End
- First Air Year: 2012
- Last Air Year: 2012
- Created by: Michael Caton-Jones
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Content Rating (US): TV-MA
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (45 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 8
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English, German
- First Air Date: September 4, 2012 (United States - TV-MA), September 4, 2012 (Germany - 12), September 4, 2012 (France - 12), September 4, 2012 (Australia - M), September 4, 2012 (Brazil - 16), September 4, 2012 (Mexico - D), September 4, 2012 (Italy - T)
- Networks: Showcase, SAT.1, Channel 4
- Alternative Titles: Um Mundo Sem Fim (PT), Mundo Sem Fim (BR), Uendelige verden (DK), Un mundo sin fin (ES), Swiat bez konca (PL), Maailma vailla loppua (FI), Un monde sans fin (FR), Ένας κόσμος χωρίς τέλος (GR)
- Production Companies: Tandem Communications, Scott Free Productions, Take 5 Productions, Galafilm
- Production Countries: Canada, Germany, United Kingdom
World Without End - Plot
Two hundred years after the construction of the great cathedral, the medieval town of Kingsbridge is taken under siege by Queen Isabella. Caris, a visionary young woman, inspires her people to stand up for their rights and revolt against to the most powerful forces of her time, the Church and the Crown.
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World Without End - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Michael Caton-Jones
Main Cast
- Oliver Maltman
- David Bradley
- Ben Chaplin
- Charlotte Riley
- Cynthia Nixon
- Carlo Rota
- Rupert Evans
- Nora Waldstätten
- Miranda Richardson
- Kostja Ullmann
Writers
- John Pielmeier
World Without End - FAQs
Is World Without End based on a book?
World Without End is adapted from Ken Follett's 2007 bestselling novel of the same name, itself a sequel to The Pillars of the Earth. Set two centuries after that story, it returns to the fictional English town of Kingsbridge during the turbulent 14th century, blending plague, war, and political intrigue.
Is World Without End connected to The Pillars of the Earth?
World Without End is a direct sequel to The Pillars of the Earth, both as novels by Ken Follett and as television miniseries. Set 200 years later in the same town of Kingsbridge, it shares the cathedral backdrop but features an entirely new cast of characters navigating the Hundred Years' War and the Black Death.
Who plays Caris in World Without End?
Charlotte Riley portrays Caris, the fierce and visionary protagonist at the heart of the series. Her performance anchors the story as Caris challenges the entrenched power of the Church and Crown, fighting for justice and the survival of Kingsbridge against overwhelming odds.
Where can you stream World Without End?
Streaming availability for World Without End varies by region. For the most up-to-date viewing options — including subscription streaming, rental, and purchase options — check JustWatch, which tracks current availability across all major platforms in your country.
How many episodes does World Without End have?
World Without End consists of 8 episodes across a single season, making it a self-contained miniseries. Each episode runs approximately 45 minutes, giving the adaptation enough room to explore Ken Follett's sprawling medieval narrative without overstaying its welcome.
How was World Without End received by critics?
Critical reception was mixed but generally warm. Reviewers praised the lavish production design, strong ensemble cast, and Charlotte Riley's commanding lead performance. Some felt the pacing compressed too much of Follett's dense novel, but fans of historical drama and the source material found it a satisfying and handsome adaptation.
What historical period does World Without End depict?
The series is set in 14th-century England, a period defined by the Hundred Years' War between England and France, the looming threat of the Black Death, and fierce power struggles between the monarchy and the Church. This turbulent backdrop gives the drama its sense of danger and moral urgency.
What are similar shows to World Without End?
If you enjoyed World Without End, The Pillars of the Earth (2010) is the essential companion piece. Other strong picks include Wolf Hall (2015), The White Queen (2013), The Last Kingdom (2015), and The Devil's Whore (2008) — all richly crafted historical dramas set against the backdrop of medieval or early modern Britain.
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