The Empress - Season 1

Franz has recently taken over as a young emperor following the Revolutions of 1848 in the Austrian Empire. In 1853, there is an assassination attempt on the life of Franz. In 1853, Elisabeth (Sisi) and Helene travel with their mother, Ludovika, to meet 23-year-old Emperor Franz, who is expected to ask for Helene's hand. Franz's mother, Archduchess Sophie, is of the opinion that her son's union with Bayern Helene will validate Austria's claim to the German states. At the party, he stuns everyone by deciding to marry Sisi.

Elisabeth arrives in Vienna for her wedding. Soon enough she faces palace intrigue. Franz tells his council of war that he doesn't want the House of Habsburg to join either side in the Crimean War. Johann Strauss II helps Elisabeth and Franz during their waltz rehearsal.

Elisabeth marries Franz, and the imperial family gets a taste of her rising popularity. Prince Gustav's lover attends the wedding and discovers a secret.

Archduchess Sophie and the council push for military action, but Franz refuses to engage. Elisabeth successfully suggests a hunting trip instead of a feast to welcome Grand Duke Alexander of Russia.

Maximilian gathers support for a plan to oust Franz Joseph. Elisabeth's well-intended gesture backfires, leading her to befriend the dubious maid, Leontine.

Elisabeth spends her time partying with Maximilian while Franz is desperate to reconcile with her. Leontine gets herself into a precarious situation. Maximilian drives a wedge between the family while continuing his plan for a coup d'état to seize the throne of Austria from his older brother.