Netflix's latest offering, The Royals, starring Bhumi Pednekar and Ishaan Khatter, has debuted to a mix of praise and criticism, with many viewers left questioning its originality and appeal. The show, which premiered on May 9, 2025, attempts to blend the charm of royal life with the struggles of modern entrepreneurship, but some critics argue it falls short of its ambitious goals.
Set in the fictional royal family of Morpur, the narrative kicks off with the death of Yuvanath Singh, played by Milind Soman, who leaves most of his wealth to his secret lover, Maurice. This unexpected turn of events leaves the royal family in financial turmoil, prompting the eldest son, Aviraaj Singh (Ishaan Khatter), to return from the United States at the behest of his mother, Padmaja (Sakshi Tanwar). The family must navigate their newfound poverty while retaining their regal status, leading them to partner with a hospitality company, Royal B&B, led by the determined Sophia Shekhar (Bhumi Pednekar).
As the show unfolds, viewers witness the dysfunctional dynamics of the royal family, which Pednekar describes as reminiscent of a modern-day Bridgerton mixed with the humor of Schitt's Creek. "It’s a very classic boy-girl romance. It’s just that there’s no damsel-in-distress. It’s refreshing," she stated in a recent interview. This blend of comedy and drama aims to capture the complexities of contemporary royal life while addressing themes of privilege and power dynamics.
However, the reception has been mixed. While some fans have praised the chemistry between the leads, others have criticized the show for lacking originality, with one viewer remarking that it feels like a “bad khichdi of multiple western series.” Another user highlighted the show’s star-studded cast, encouraging viewers to check it out despite its flaws.
The series consists of eight episodes, each featuring lavish events and designer outfits that showcase the royal family's attempts to maintain their status. Critics have noted that while the aesthetics are appealing, the story often feels disjointed and lacking in substance. The character development, particularly the romantic arc between Aviraaj and Sophia, has drawn scrutiny for its predictability and lack of depth.
The show also explores subplots involving Aviraaj's sister, who grapples with her sexuality, and their brother, Digvijay (Vihaan Samat), who participates in a cooking reality show called Gastronautics. This subplot, while intended to add humor, has been critiqued for its execution, with some viewers finding it overly contrived.
In terms of performances, both Pednekar and Khatter have been recognized for their individual talents, though their on-screen chemistry has been questioned. Critics have observed that while they shine in their respective roles, their interactions often feel mismatched, with Khatter's youthful exuberance clashing with Pednekar's more mature portrayal.
As the show progresses, it attempts to delve into larger societal issues, including the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in modern life. Pednekar has called AI a “disruptive” tool, emphasizing the need for responsible usage in the context of the series. This thematic exploration adds a layer of contemporary relevance, but some viewers feel it detracts from the primary narrative focus.
The show’s creative team, including directors Priyanka Ghose and Nupur Asthana, alongside writers Neha Veena Sharma and producers Pritish Nandy Communications, have aimed to create a contemporary royal romantic comedy that resonates with today's audience. However, the execution has led to a polarized reception, with viewers either loving or hating the series.
In a recent social media exchange, fans expressed their divided opinions, with some praising Khatter's performance and others critiquing the show’s attempts at humor and romance. One viewer noted, "#IshaanKhatter has matured and how! Looking really hot and also acting beautifully using his expressive eyes," while another remarked, "I think this show tried a little too hard from the get-go."
Despite the mixed reviews, The Royals stands as a significant entry into the growing landscape of Indian web series, marking Bhumi Pednekar’s debut in this format and Zeenat Aman’s first collaboration with Netflix. As audiences continue to debate its merits, the show undoubtedly adds to the conversation about the evolving nature of storytelling in the digital age.
As viewers tune in to explore the extravagant yet troubled lives of the Morpur royal family, the show raises questions about the intersection of tradition and modernity, privilege and responsibility, and love amidst chaos. Whether The Royals will find its footing in the competitive world of streaming remains to be seen, but its ambitious premise and star-studded cast certainly make it a noteworthy contender.
