I think that the serious shows, that have compelling characters, etc. etc. are mostly on HBO, and cable channels.
Sopranos, Rome. Serious.

I actually think that a 30 Years War series would be AMAZING. I mean, it's the glory, thunder, violence, rape, murder, plunder, heroes, villains, Catholics, Protestants, camels! I mean, what isn't to like?

A poor German farmer, who joins the Imperial Army under Wallenstein or Tilly, fight some battles, then devolve into a personal conflict between himself and an Austrian, polar opposites. Amazing series.