Netflix’s latest release The Royals features Bhumi Pednekar and Ishaan Khatter in lead roles, supported by a strong ensemble that includes Zeenat Aman, Nora Fatehi, Sakshi Tanwar, Vihaan Samat, Dino Morea, Milind Soman, Chunky Panday, and Lisa Mishra. Directed by Priyanka Ghose and Nupur Asthana, the eight-episode series presents a modern romantic comedy set against a backdrop of royalty and entrepreneurship.
The story centers on Aviraaj Singh, a contemporary polo-playing prince played by Khatter, and Sophia Shekhar, a self-made CEO portrayed by Pednekar. As the two navigate their contrasting worlds, the narrative unfolds into a tale of ambition, identity, and unexpected love. Netflix describes the series as a whirlwind of romance that brings together royal tradition and startup hustle.
Audience Reaction: A Split Verdict
Since its premiere on May 9, The Royals has drawn mixed reactions from viewers, many of whom binge-watched the show soon after its release. While some celebrated its freshness and aesthetic, others were left disappointed by its execution.
Several social media users praised Bhumi Pednekar’s performance as Sophia, commending her emotional range and screen presence. One user stated, “Bhumi Pednekar delivers #Sophia in #TheRoyals with depth and agency. Hers is the most touching character in the show and one roots for her from start to finish.” Another added, “If elegance had a face in 2025, it would be #BhumiPednekar in The Royals. What a transformation... She has been shapeshifting for every role, dedicating and immersing herself completely…”
Ishaan Khatter also earned acclaim for his portrayal of the charming but brooding Maharaj Aviraaj Singh. A fan noted, “#IshaanKhatter is all kinds of unforgettable in The Royals — brooding, bold, and beautifully human. He truly is Bollywood's new age heartthrob.” His dance sequences especially caught attention, with another user writing, “Ishaan Khatter the dancer you are omg!! Nailed those moves!! Ishaan and Nora actually have chemistry.”
Criticism for Tone and Execution
Despite the praise, a significant portion of viewers found the series lacking in substance. One netizen remarked, “The Royals on Netflix isn't half bad (posh and hot people angst is always a bingeable genre). But it's the first time I've noticed how bad the background score is. Loud, tacky and almost makes the show unwatchable at places.”
Another critique pointed to the superficiality of the show’s approach: “The new Netflix series, The Royals, is a lifestyle algorithm posing as a rom-com. Mostly unwatchable.”
Others echoed the sentiment, describing the series as visually appealing but narratively weak. Some called it “mostly unwatchable” and questioned its depth and originality, despite the buzz and high production value it brought.
The show has drawn frequent comparisons to Bridgerton for its regal setting and romantic drama, while its humor and structure reminded some viewers of Schitt’s Creek. The unique pairing of Khatter and Pednekar, though initially unexpected, was widely appreciated for their on-screen chemistry.
In the crowded space of dark thrillers and intense dramas, The Royals aimed to offer a lighter, romantic escape. While it succeeded for some with its star cast and glossy visuals, others were left underwhelmed by what they perceived as style over substance.
The Royals is now available to stream on Netflix.
The story centers on Aviraaj Singh, a contemporary polo-playing prince played by Khatter, and Sophia Shekhar, a self-made CEO portrayed by Pednekar. As the two navigate their contrasting worlds, the narrative unfolds into a tale of ambition, identity, and unexpected love. Netflix describes the series as a whirlwind of romance that brings together royal tradition and startup hustle.
Audience Reaction: A Split Verdict
Since its premiere on May 9, The Royals has drawn mixed reactions from viewers, many of whom binge-watched the show soon after its release. While some celebrated its freshness and aesthetic, others were left disappointed by its execution.
Several social media users praised Bhumi Pednekar’s performance as Sophia, commending her emotional range and screen presence. One user stated, “Bhumi Pednekar delivers #Sophia in #TheRoyals with depth and agency. Hers is the most touching character in the show and one roots for her from start to finish.” Another added, “If elegance had a face in 2025, it would be #BhumiPednekar in The Royals. What a transformation... She has been shapeshifting for every role, dedicating and immersing herself completely…”
Ishaan Khatter also earned acclaim for his portrayal of the charming but brooding Maharaj Aviraaj Singh. A fan noted, “#IshaanKhatter is all kinds of unforgettable in The Royals — brooding, bold, and beautifully human. He truly is Bollywood's new age heartthrob.” His dance sequences especially caught attention, with another user writing, “Ishaan Khatter the dancer you are omg!! Nailed those moves!! Ishaan and Nora actually have chemistry.”
Criticism for Tone and Execution
Despite the praise, a significant portion of viewers found the series lacking in substance. One netizen remarked, “The Royals on Netflix isn't half bad (posh and hot people angst is always a bingeable genre). But it's the first time I've noticed how bad the background score is. Loud, tacky and almost makes the show unwatchable at places.”
Another critique pointed to the superficiality of the show’s approach: “The new Netflix series, The Royals, is a lifestyle algorithm posing as a rom-com. Mostly unwatchable.”
Others echoed the sentiment, describing the series as visually appealing but narratively weak. Some called it “mostly unwatchable” and questioned its depth and originality, despite the buzz and high production value it brought.
The show has drawn frequent comparisons to Bridgerton for its regal setting and romantic drama, while its humor and structure reminded some viewers of Schitt’s Creek. The unique pairing of Khatter and Pednekar, though initially unexpected, was widely appreciated for their on-screen chemistry.
In the crowded space of dark thrillers and intense dramas, The Royals aimed to offer a lighter, romantic escape. While it succeeded for some with its star cast and glossy visuals, others were left underwhelmed by what they perceived as style over substance.
The Royals is now available to stream on Netflix.
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