The Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers appeared as though a time machine encapsulated it and shot it back to 16th-century Europe for Showtime’s world premiere of season two of The Tudors. The replica Tudor-era castle was bustling with star-studded activity, as creator Michael Hirst and cast members Jonathan Rhys Meyers (accompanied by girlfriend Reena Hammer), Peter O’Toole, Natalie Dormer, James Frain and Henry
Cavill were joined by other notable revelers Tracey Ullman, and Billie Piper for the captivating opener. Yes, this season promises more tyranny, lustful escapades, lavish gowns, and a beheading, as we all know what happened to Anne Boleyn on May 19, 1536.

Even Rhys Meyers has acknowledged his physique wasn’t quite matched to that of the mighty king’s. “I have got absolutely no physical attributes in common with Henry VIII,” he said ... however, he recognizes his pres-
ence “had to be more about his energy, more about power, more about confidence.” Natalie Dormer, who portrays Anne Boleyn, concurs, noting the actor possesses a quality “you wouldn’t want to mess with,” which gives him his fiery edge.

Check www.sho.com for times and episode details. Beware, you might become obsessed! Oh, and do watch your head!