Bhumi Pednekar Exits Netflix Series 'The Royals' Ahead of Season 2

Bhumi Pednekar has exited Netflix's 'The Royals' ahead of Season 2, Mid-Day reported, citing an insider. The decision follows a creative pivot in the series' direction, which will now emphasize family dynamics over the romantic storyline that featured Pednekar in the first season.

The first season, released on May 9, 2025, starred Pednekar and Ishaan Khatter in a high-profile romance subplot. However, audience response leaned more strongly toward the ensemble family narrative, including performances by Sakshi Tanwar, Zeenat Aman, and Dino Morea. The insider said the show's creators are allowing the story to evolve organically, with no plans to continue the unresolved romance.

Pednekar, who faced significant public criticism after Season 1, said in a Mid-Day interview that the backlash deeply affected her, calling it emotionally numbing. She is now moving forward with other projects, including a Netflix film opposite Imran Khan and a return to the 'Daldal' franchise, according to the report.

Directed by Priyanka Ghose and Nupur Asthana, 'The Royals' centers on a wealthy family grappling with financial collapse while maintaining a façade of luxury. The ensemble cast also includes Nora Fatehi, Vihaan Samat, and Milind Soman.

Netflix and the production team have not issued an official statement. Season 2 remains in development, with the creative team expected to finalize casting and plot details in the coming weeks.