Never tell a woman to calm down — and definitely not someone as spirited as Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Devrim Lingnau), who proves the adage about well-behaved women rarely making history true in the trailer for Season 2 of The Empress.

Much like Sisi herself, the historical drama instantly captured hearts and minds across the world when it premiered in 2022. Now, the German-language series is back for Season 2 — along with plenty of palace intrigue, gorgeous costumes, and sexy romance.

“I’m incredibly grateful that we were able to touch so many different people in Germany and all over the world with our series,” showrunner Katharina Eyssen told Netflix at the time of the renewal announcement. “The story of Elisabeth’s life is a story of the power of love, but also of the courage to be different and of hope for a better future. And that’s what we need at this time. And that’s why we’re very happy to be able to continue telling this exciting story.”

Season 2 of the series is now streaming — watch the main trailer above, and read on to find out what to expect from the new episodes.

What is The Empress about? 

The Empress tells the story of Bavarian princess turned Austrian empress Elisabeth, known as Sisi, who struggled to adjust to life in the stifling 1800s Habsburg royal court after marrying Emperor Franz Joseph (Philip Froissant). She became a beloved public figure as she battled tradition and fought for her individuality and freedom.

What happens in The Empress Season 1? 

Rebellious Sisi finds herself unwilling to conform to the rigid system that governs the royal Habsburg court. When her formidable mother-in-law, Sophia (Melika Foroutan), suggests Sisi return to Bavaria and consider having her marriage annulled, she agrees. She goes so far as to conceal her pregnancy from the man she loves. But as she exits the palace, she runs into an angry mob of protesters. Rather than retreat behind the gates like her husband, however, Elisabeth strides out among them, kneeling and announcing her pregnancy publicly. And then... the end. The series cuts to black, leaving viewers with, like, a million questions: How does the crowd react? Can Sisi still leave Franz? Does she even want to? 

What will happen in The Empress Season 2? 

The second season begins as the young couple’s first crisis is barely over. They’re hoping to enjoy their newlywed bliss when dark clouds gather over Schönbrunn Palace: Franz unexpectedly faces a powerful adversary in Europe. And Elisabeth comes under great pressure, because an heir to the throne is to secure the future of the empire as quickly as possible. When fate strikes with all its power, the couple’s love threatens to finally break apart. Elisabeth must fight not only for her family, but also for the integrity of her soul.

When does The Empress Season 2 premiere?

All hail The Empress! Season 2 is streaming now on Netflix. 

Watch the Teaser for The Empress Season 2