Netflix’s latest romantic comedy series, The Royals, has debuted, and it’s stirring up quite the conversation. Set against a backdrop of opulence and royal intrigue, the show intertwines the lives of a commoner and a prince, promising an escapist fantasy filled with romance, humor, and drama.
Opening in the picturesque Bentotla, Sri Lanka, the series introduces viewers to Sophia Shekhar (Bhumi Pednekar), the ambitious CEO of Work Potato, a successful Mumbai-based start-up. Sophia is in the thick of preparing for a crucial board meeting regarding her new venture, Royal B&B, which aims to allow guests to book stays in royal castles and interact with the families residing there.
Meanwhile, Aviraaj Singh (Ishaan Khatter), a Rajkumar from the fictional princely state of Morpur, is at a crossroads in his life. He is summoned back home for the reading of his father’s will, which reveals not only his unexpected inheritance as Maharaja but also a family burden of immense debts. This duality of privilege and responsibility sets the stage for a classic romantic comedy.
The two first meet on the beach, where an awkward encounter leads to a spark between them. Their chemistry is palpable, but their connection soon becomes complicated. As Sophia navigates her business ambitions, Aviraaj struggles with his newfound royal duties. The series cleverly flips the traditional narrative of the royal and the commoner, showcasing Sophia as a powerful figure in her own right, rather than a mere love interest.
Despite its promising premise, The Royals has garnered mixed reactions since its premiere on May 9, 2025. While some viewers celebrate its aesthetic appeal and the performances of the lead actors, others criticize its execution and depth. Social media reactions reflect this divide: one viewer praised Pednekar’s portrayal, stating, “Bhumi Pednekar delivers #Sophia in #TheRoyals with depth and agency,” while another lamented the show’s lack of substance.
Critics have drawn comparisons to popular series like Bridgerton and Schitt’s Creek, noting that while The Royals attempts to capture the charm of its predecessors, it often falls short. The show’s attempts at humor and modernity, such as the inclusion of queer characters and contemporary business dynamics, sometimes feel forced and superficial.
One review pointed out, “What should have been a light, swoon-worthy love story gets bogged down by incoherent subplots and contrived conflicts.” This sentiment resonates with many who feel that the show, despite its glamorous visuals, lacks a coherent narrative. The character arcs, particularly Sophia’s, are criticized for being inconsistent, swinging between a confident entrepreneur and a confused romantic lead.
Despite these critiques, the performances of the supporting cast have received acclaim. Zeenat Aman shines as Maji, the grandmother of the late Maharaja, providing moments of levity and charm. Vihaan Samat as Digvijay and Kavya Trehan as Divyaranjini also add depth to the ensemble, often eclipsing the leads in terms of emotional engagement.
The production design of The Royals is undeniably lavish, with palatial settings and exquisite costumes that create a visually stunning experience. However, as many reviews have noted, the show’s emphasis on style often overshadows its narrative substance. Critics argue that the series mistakes opulence for depth, leading to a viewing experience that, while visually appealing, ultimately feels hollow.
As the story unfolds, viewers are treated to a mix of romantic tension and family drama, culminating in a series of misunderstandings and revelations. The stakes rise as Sophia pushes to launch Royal B&B within six months, while Aviraaj grapples with his family’s financial turmoil and his role as a newly minted Maharaja.
Ultimately, The Royals aims to be a light-hearted romp through the world of royalty and romance, but whether it succeeds in delivering a satisfying narrative remains up for debate. As one review aptly put it, “The end shows a glimmer of what The Royals could have been had the rest of the series shown the same clarity and conviction.”
In a landscape crowded with dark thrillers and intense dramas, The Royals positions itself as a refreshing escape, even if it doesn’t fully deliver on its promise. With its star-studded cast and glossy visuals, it’s a series that may appeal to those looking for a fun, albeit flawed, romantic comedy.
As viewers continue to stream the series on Netflix, the conversation around The Royals is likely to evolve, reflecting the varied tastes and expectations of its audience. For now, it stands as a testament to the complexities of modern storytelling in the realm of romance and royalty.
