The Yorkist Who (Almost) Survived the Tudors: Arthur Plantagenet

The Yorkist Who (Almost) Survived the Tudors: Arthur Plantagenet

From Tudors Dynasty & Beyond by RedTop Media / Rebecca Larson

August 30, 2026 · 1h 21m

About this episode

This episode explores the life of Arthur Plantagenet, Edward IV's illegitimate son, and his complex relationship with the Tudor court.

Arthur Plantagenet survived the fall of the Yorkists and served four kings—but his loyalty could not save him from the suspicions of Henry VIII’s court. In this episode, Rebecca and Amy explore the remarkable life of Edward IV’s illegitimate son: half-brother to Elizabeth of York, uncle to Henry VIII, military commander, Knight of the Garter, and Lord Deputy of Calais. His illegitimacy may have protected him from the fate suffered by other Plantagenets, allowing him to become a trusted Tudor servant whom Henry reportedly called “the gentlest heart living.” But Arthur was a loyal and trusting man in a world that rewarded suspicion and political calculation. Isolated in Calais, burdened by administrative failures, and endangered by the religious sympathies of those around him, he was eventually drawn into an alleged Catholic conspiracy despite the lack of evidence against him. From Yorkist survivor to prisoner in the Tower, discover the tragic and often overlooked story of Arthur Plantagenet, Viscount Lisle—and how the news of his freedom came just too late. -- Sarah-Beth Watkins book - ⁠Arthur Plantagenet: Henry VIII's Illegitimate Uncle⁠ -- Join the fun on Patreon…

People in this episode

Hosts: Rebecca Larson, Amy McElroy

Topics covered

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Tudors Dynasty

Books & works: Arthur Plantagenet: Henry VIII's Illegitimate Uncle

Places: Calais

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