Borgen

Borgen is a Danish political drama series. It aired on DR1 with three seasons from 26 September 2010 to 10 March 2013. Adam Price created it. Sidse Babett Knudsen plays Birgitte Nyborg, a politician who becomes Denmark's first female Prime Minister by chance.

The show follows her rise and the hard choices she makes in power. Pilou Asbæk plays her spin doctor Kasper Juul. Birgitte Hjort Sørensen plays journalist Katrine Fønsmark. Søren Malling plays TV news editor Torben Friis. The title means "The Castle" and refers to Christiansborg Palace, home of Danish government. The series has 38 episodes in total, including the revival.

It won awards like the BAFTA for Best International Programme in 2012 and Prix Italia for best drama.

What I Loved

The smart scripts show real politics without over-the-top villains. Sidse Babett Knudsen gives a strong performance as Birgitte, full of drive and doubt. The links between her work and family life feel true and pull you in.

Pilou Asbæk adds charm and edge as the clever spin doctor. The media side with journalists and editors brings extra depth. Danish settings and calm pace make it stand out from louder shows. It mixes deals in parliament with personal costs in a fresh way.

Why You Should Watch

It looks at power, ideals, and deals in government with sharp insight. Each episode hooks with talks and twists, but the long arcs build real tension. Fans of shows like The West Wing or House of Cards will like the focus on women in leadership and media spin.

The cast acts with skill, and talks feel real. Episodes last about 58 minutes, perfect for steady viewing. It draws from real Danish events but asks big questions on ethics. You get smart drama that makes you think.

Favourite Quote

"If you do not challenge their narrative, you accept their truth."

Takeaway

Power changes people, even those with good aims. Balance between work and home proves hard at the top. The show teaches that deals often cost personal values. Women face extra tests in leadership. Media shapes what we see as real. One strong voice can shift events, but it needs support from others.