The Madness of King George

In 1788, King George III begins to struggle with madness, which sparks the Regency Crisis. This period sees intense power struggles within the British Parliament, as various factions vie for control amidst the King's deteriorating condition.

Tory Prime Minister William Pitt the Younger finds himself in a precarious situation as King's mental state worsens. He faces challenges from reform-minded opposition leader Charles James Fox, who has different visions for Britain's future.

Despite his madness, King George III shows unwavering dedication to his wife, Queen Charlotte, and their 15 children. His affection for his family remains constant, even as he copes with his internal struggles.

George, Prince of Wales, sees the King's decline as an opportunity to pursue greater power. Resentful of his father, he secretly marries Mrs. Fitzherbert in 1785, a move he understands is illegal without royal approval.

Aligning himself with Fox, the Prince arranges a concert featuring Handel's music to provoke his father. The event takes a chaotic turn when King George, distracted and erratic, engages in inappropriate behavior with Lady Pembroke and attacks his son.

In a touching moment with Queen Charlotte, King George acknowledges his mental decline. Their conversation is cut short by his physician’s advice, revealing the toll that mental illness takes on personal connections.

Under Dr. Warren's care, King George undergoes painful and outdated treatments focused solely on his bodily functions. This approach, marked by harsh methods like cupping and laxatives, highlights the brutal realities of medical care at the time.

Lady Pembroke introduces Dr. Francis Willis, who is known for his innovative treatment methods. He offers a more compassionate approach that emphasizes understanding the patient’s perception of their condition, setting the stage for the King's potential recovery.

As Dr. Willis attempts to treat King George, the King struggles with anger. This leads to incidents where he must be physically restrained to prevent inappropriate behavior, reflecting the complexities of treating mental illness during the Regency era.

The Prince of Wales decides to move King George to Kew, prompting an emotional farewell with Queen Charlotte. This moment underscores the King's internal conflict and struggle as he fights against the restraints imposed on him.

Despite ongoing delusions, King George begins to show signs of improvement thanks to Willis's care. One notable moment occurs when he successfully feeds himself, representing a small victory against the ravages of his illness.

With the King's condition unstable, the Whig opposition pushes for the Prince to gain regency powers. This political maneuvering is heightened by Baron Thurlow's efforts to suppress news of the Prince's secret marriage.

During a poignant reading from King Lear, King George recalls a phrase he hasn’t used in months, indicating a hopeful return to clarity. This moment symbolizes his progress and suggests a possible reconciliation with his role as king.

The King confronts his son in Parliament, compelling him to confess his clandestine marriage to Mrs. Fitzherbert. This crucial moment temporarily resolves the crisis as the Prince agrees to step back and commit to his familial duties.

The royal family receives a warm welcome at St. Paul's Cathedral, signifying a return to stability for King George. His desire to connect with the public reflects a new era for the monarchy, even as he chooses to distance himself from Dr. Willis.