Anne of Cleves' stock rises on The Tudors, preview for April 25

By April MacIntyre Apr 23, 2010, 20:53 GMT

Anne of Cleves initially displeases the superficial King Henry VIII, then changes his heart, courtesy of Showtime

This week, "The Tudors" sees King Henry VIII (Jonathan Rhys-Meyers) begin to rue his decision to marry the silly 17 year-old Catherine Howard.  The frivolous queen has already made enemies with Henry's pious daughter Mary, and now has her eye on the cruel and rakish Culpepper who is courting her surreptitiously.

Introduced to the King by Cromwell, Lutheran German-born Anne of Cleves (Joss Stone) was the fourth queen prior to Catherine, and an irate Henry divorced her, greatly displeased by her appearance. 

Yet it was time that softened Henry's initial dislike and he grew to love her, and was quite fond of her company.  She was given great respect, wealth and deference by the court per the King's orders.

In this upcoming episode of "The Tudors" on Showtime this Sunday, April 25, Henry makes a surprise visit to Anne of Cleves and Lady Elizabeth.

A more benevolent Henry VIII forgives the citizens of the North for their rebellion against him, while the youthful wife Catherine he dotes upon begins a passionate affair with Culpepper.  The "doting" begins to wane.

At the time of her death years later, Anne of Cleves had become a Catholic.

Directed By: Dearbhla Walsh
Written By: Michael Hirst