A new Audible Original podcast, Mistresses hosted by Jameela Jamil and Dr Kate Lister, uncovers scandalous and overlooked stories of history’s most extraordinary ‘other women’.
Across six episodes, the pair look at the hidden lives of mistresses, courtesans and concubines, exploring tales of sex, betrayal, murder, witchcraft and intrigue.
Each episode dives deep into real history’s most gossiped-about figures, often dismissed or sidelined until now.
They are joined by Gen Z historian and social media star Katie Kennedy, known online as The History Gossip, who appears throughout the series with her trademark humour and bite-sized context to the scandalous tales.
Among those featured are Madame de Montespan, the official mistress of King Louis XIV accused of dabbling in poison, and Wu Zhao, the concubine who became China’s only female Emperor.
Other episodes profile Virginia Hill, Marita Lorenz, Malintzin and Mary Boleyn, each revealing a side of history rarely taught in classrooms.
Jameela Jamil said: “I’m excited to blow the minds of the audience with these outrageous and, at times, heartbreaking stories of the fascinating, resilient, and wild women that facilitated some truly pivotal moments in history.”
Dr Kate Lister added: “The history of mistresses is intriguing, challenging, and occasionally very dark. Thankfully, when you’re talking about it with Jameela, it’s also hilarious.”
Mistresses with Jameela Jamil and Kate Lister is available exclusively on Audible now. Membership may be required.
