‘Bhumi Pednekar’s casting was a Netflix suggestion’: ‘The Royals’ director responds to critics

Netflix India’s latest romantic comedy ‘The Royals’ made a grand debut last week with its eight-episode run, boasting opulent sets, lavish costumes, and a glittering cast. However, while the aesthetics have drawn praise, reactions to the storyline and character dynamics have been far more divided.

Viewers and critics alike have pointed out that ‘The Royals’ lacks narrative depth. Some also questioned the chemistry between the lead pair, Ishaan Khatter and Bhumi Pednekar, while others critiqued certain creative choices, including Ishaan’s frequent shirtless scenes and a brief cameo by screen legend Zeenat Aman.

Now, director Priyanka Ghose has responded to the mixed reactions in an interview with India Today. Addressing the backlash, she said that Bhumi’s casting was a Netflix suggestion, and she was actually open to the idea of trying a new pairing.

“They are both such powerful actors,” Priyanka said.

“I was excited to see them embody glamorous roles, which goes against both of their works so far. While Ishaan has not got a chance to play a mainstream hero role, Bhumi has always been the queen of heartland India,” she added.

On criticism regarding the lead pair’s on-screen chemistry, Priyanka acknowledged the polarised feedback, saying, “If it did not work for some people, I will try better next time,” adding “But there are also people who enjoyed the show and their chemistry. It is crazy how polarised the feedback has been.”

Ishaan Khatter’s shirtless scenes also drew attention online, but Priyanka said they were part of the original script and felt natural.

“Ishaan is an intelligent actor, and he would not have agreed to take his shirt off at the drop of a hat. He was always conscious of how much was too much. There were times when we even discussed if we were overdoing it. There was actually a fashionable wardrobe for him, and we would have loved to use more clothes on him,” she added.

Priyanka also addressed the brief appearance of Zeenat, whose cameo left fans wanting more.

“It was never meant to be a full track. Whenever legendary superstars make cameos, we naturally crave more. But the script had only those many scenes for her.”

Set in the fictional royal town of Morpur, ‘The Royals’ follows Aviraaj aka Fizzy (played by Ishaan Khatter), a carefree prince forced to take on the responsibilities of Maharaj after his father’s sudden death. With the royal estate on the verge of collapse, the family partners with a startup led by Sophia (Bhumi Pednekar), who pitches the idea of turning the palace into a luxury bed-and-breakfast. As the two try to save the crumbling legacy, sparks fly and class clashes.

The series also features Sakshi Tanwar, Milind Soman, Nora Fatehi, Vihaan Samat and Dino Morea.