Watch Anastasia: The Mystery of Anna

Anastasia: The Mystery of Anna is a captivating historical drama from Telecom Entertainment, Inc. that details the controversial and mysterious tale of Anna Anderson, a woman who claimed to be Anastasia Romanov, the youngest daughter of Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, who was supposedly killed with her family during the Russian Revolution. The show features an all-star cast of prominent actors such as Amy Irving, Olivia de Havilland, Rex Harrison, Jan Niklas, Omar Sharif, Susan Lucci, Elke Sommer, Edward Fox, Claire Bloom, Christian Bale, Sydney Bromley, Julian Glover, Tim McInnerny, Shane Rimmer, and Herwig Seeb, who bring the complex characters to life with their dynamic performances.

The show follows Anna Anderson after she is found wandering in a Berlin mental institution in 1920, suffering from amnesia. She is believed to be Anastasia, the only surviving member of the Romanov family who had been thought to have been executed by the Bolsheviks in 1918. Despite skepticism from many, Anna is resolute in her claim that she is the Grand Duchess and sets out to prove her identity to skeptics, including the Romanov family members who had escaped to the West, the newly-established Soviet government, and the international press.

Amy Irving plays the role of Anna Anderson, portraying the character’s emotional turmoil and intense determination with both depth and nuance. Her performance draws in the viewers, making them question whether Anna is truly Anastasia or simply a delusional woman seeking attention. Olivia de Havilland plays the critical role of Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna, Anastasia’s grandmother, who refuses to believe that Anna is her granddaughter but begins to question her certainty as Anna reveals knowledge only the true Anastasia would possess.

The role of Prince Michael Alexandrovich, Anastasia’s uncle, is portrayed by the legendary Rex Harrison whose character initially suspects Anna but gradually becomes convinced of her authenticity. Jan Niklas portrays the character of Anatoly Chekhov, a sympathetic journalist who believes in Anna’s claims and devotes himself to helping her establish her identity.

Omar Sharif plays the character of Sergei Sukhomlinov, a former Minister of War who is the only person left alive who could verify Anna’s identity, but his credibility is questioned due to his association with the Bolsheviks. Susan Lucci plays the character of Joan Carter, a money-hungry American who attempts to exploit Anna’s story to gain fame and fortune.

Elke Sommer portrays Lili Dehn, a close friend of Anastasia who had been present during her alleged execution but is unsure of what she actually saw. The role of Grand Duke Cyril Vladimirovich, Anastasia’s cousin, is played by Edward Fox who opposes Anna and seeks to preserve his own claim to the Russian throne. Claire Bloom portrays Baroness Sophie Buxhoeveden, Anastasia’s former governess, who believes Anna is an imposter.

Christian Bale portrays the character of Alexei Romanov, Anastasia’s younger brother who had suffered from hemophilia and whose death would confirm his family's identity. Alexei is shown in flashbacks, as Bale portrays the young prince with a raw vulnerability. The remaining cast members, including Sydney Bromley, Julian Glover, Tim McInnerny, Shane Rimmer, and Herwig Seeb, take on supporting roles and provide depth and authenticity to the historical events and personages portrayed in the show.

Anastasia: The Mystery of Anna is a fascinating and intriguing show that explores an event in history that remains a mystery to this day. The tension and uncertainty surrounding Anna’s identity keep viewers engaged, while the talented cast delivers emotional performances that capture the essence of the characters and their motivations. The show is a must-see for fans of historical dramas and for those interested in the ongoing mystery of Anastasia Romanov.

Anastasia: The Mystery of Anna is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (2 episodes). The series first aired on December 7, 1986.