8.3 / 10 (based on 35761 reviews)
Prince Wilhelm adjusts to life at his prestigious new boarding school, Hillerska, but following his heart proves more challenging than anticipated.
Genre: Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Edvin Ryding, Omar Rudberg, Felicia Truedsson, Malte Gårdinger
Creators: Lisa Ambjörn, Lars Beckung, Camilla Holter
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 7 episodes, 50-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Young Royals (2021)
Skam (2015)
8.6 / 10 (based on 35634 reviews)
The story of young teenagers and pupils on Hartvig Nissens upper secondary school in Oslo, and their troubles, scandals and everyday life. Each season is told from a different person’s point of view.
Genre: Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Josefine Frida Pettersen, Iman Meskini, Ulrikke Falch, Lisa Teige
Creators: Julie Andem
Directors:
Writers:
4 seasons, 43 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Love, Victor (2020)
8 / 10 (based on 19031 reviews)
Victor is a new student at Creekwood High School on his own journey of self-discovery, facing challenges at home, adjusting to a new city, and struggling with his sexual orientation.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Michael Cimino, Rachel Hilson, Anthony Turpel, Bebe Wood
Creators: Isaac Aptaker, Elizabeth Berger
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 21 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Skam France (2018)
8.2 / 10 (based on 2877 reviews)
Skam France follows five french girls as they go to high-school.
Genre: Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Axel Auriant, Lula Cotton-Frapier, Assa Sylla, Philippine Stindel
Creators: Julie Andem
Directors:
Writers:
8 seasons, 83 episodes, 20.0-minute runtime
wtFOCK (2018)
8.3 / 10 (based on 846 reviews)
The story of young teenagers and pupils in a high school in Antwerp, and their troubles, scandals and everyday life. Each season is told from a different person’s point of view.
Genre: Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Veerle Dejaeger, Yara Veyt, Nona Janssens, Nora Dari
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
5 seasons, 53 episodes
Élite (2018)
7.3 / 10 (based on 82847 reviews)
When three working-class teenagers begin attending an exclusive private school in Spain, the clash between them and the wealthy students leads to murder.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Main Cast: Itzan Escamilla, Omar Ayuso, Miguel Bernardeau, Arón Piper
Creators: Darío Madrona, Carlos Montero
Directors:
Writers:
6 seasons, 41 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Grand Army (2020)
7.5 / 10 (based on 7921 reviews)
The drama series tells the story of five high school students as they struggle with sexual, racial and economic politics and fight to succeed and become somebody.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Odessa A’zion, Odley Jean, Amir Bageria, Maliq Johnson
Creators: Katie Cappiello
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 9 episodes
The Society (2019)
7.1 / 10 (based on 32508 reviews)
When everyone else mysteriously vanishes from their wealthy town, the teen residents of West Ham must forge their own society to survive.
Genre: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main Cast: Kathryn Newton, Gideon Adlon, Sean Berdy, Natasha Liu Bordizzo
Creators: Christopher Keyser
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 10 episodes, 58.0-minute runtime
In the world of television, where shows often blend into a sea of sameness, “Young Royals” emerges as a breath of fresh air. Launched in 2021 on Netflix, this Swedish series quickly carved out its niche, captivating audiences with its unique blend of royal drama and heartfelt storytelling. Unlike many of its contemporaries, “Young Royals” eschews the usual pomp and spectacle for a more grounded, realistic portrayal of adolescence, set against the backdrop of royalty.
The Premise
At its core, “Young Royals” is the story of Prince Wilhelm of Sweden, a teenager who grapples with the dual pressures of royal expectations and personal desires. Following a scandal, Wilhelm is sent to the prestigious boarding school, Hillerska, where he hopes to start anew. However, the freedom he finds there leads him down a path where his heart conflicts with his duties. The show masterfully navigates themes of love, identity, and the burdens of responsibility, making it a relatable tale for not just teenagers but adults alike.
Characters and Performances
Wilhelm
Wilhelm, portrayed by Edvin Ryding, is the heart of the show. Ryding’s performance captures the complexity of a young royal torn between his obligations and his true self. His journey of self-discovery and acceptance is portrayed with a raw honesty that viewers find compelling.
Simon
Simon, played by Omar Rudberg, is another standout character. As Wilhelm’s love interest, Simon’s character is a stark contrast to the royal world. He’s a scholarship student, grounded and genuine, offering a glimpse into a life unburdened by the weight of a crown. The chemistry between Simon and Wilhelm is undeniable, providing some of the show’s most tender and memorable moments.
Supporting Cast
The supporting cast, including characters like Sara (Frida Argento), August (Malte Gårdinger), and Felice (Nikita Uggla), add depth to the narrative. Each character, with their own struggles and ambitions, enriches the story, making Hillerska feel like a real school with real students, each battling their own demons.
Themes and Messages
“Young Royals” doesn’t shy away from tackling heavy themes. It delves into the complexities of sexual identity, the pressures of societal expectations, and the quest for authenticity in a world that demands conformity. One of the show’s strengths is its ability to present these themes in a way that’s both thoughtful and impactful, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own lives and the societal structures they navigate daily.
Love and Identity
The heart of “Young Royals” is its exploration of love and identity. Wilhelm and Simon’s relationship, while fraught with challenges, serves as a beacon of hope and authenticity. Their love story is not just about the thrill of romance but also about the courage it takes to be true to oneself in the face of adversity.
Power and Responsibility
The series also scrutinizes the concept of power and the responsibilities that come with it. Through Wilhelm’s journey, viewers see the often unseen burdens of those born into positions of influence. It’s a reminder that behind the glamour of royalty lies a world of strict expectations and personal sacrifices.
Cinematography and Soundtrack
The cinematography of “Young Royals” is another aspect worth noting. The use of natural lighting and intimate close-ups create a visceral viewing experience, drawing viewers deeper into the emotional landscape of the characters. The soundtrack, featuring a mix of Swedish and international artists, complements the show’s mood perfectly, enhancing both its poignant and uplifting moments.
Why “Young Royals” Stands Out
In a landscape cluttered with high-octane dramas and fantastical narratives, “Young Royals” stands out for its simplicity and sincerity. It doesn’t rely on extravagant sets or dramatic plot twists to keep viewers engaged. Instead, it finds strength in its authenticity, focusing on the universal experiences of love, loss, and the search for identity.
Relatability
Perhaps the most significant reason for its appeal is its relatability. Despite the royal setting, the characters’ experiences and emotions are universally recognizable. Who hasn’t felt the weight of expectations? Or the fear of not fitting in? “Young Royals” reminds us that at the heart of these experiences is the desire to be seen and accepted for who we truly are.
A Global Fanbase
Since its release, “Young Royals” has cultivated a passionate global fanbase. Social media platforms are abuzz with discussions, fan art, and theories about the characters and their futures. This global community highlights the show’s universal appeal, transcending cultural and language barriers to connect with viewers worldwide.
Conclusion
“Young Royals” is more than just a TV show; it’s a poignant exploration of the human condition. With its compelling characters, thoughtful themes, and heartfelt storytelling, it offers a fresh perspective on the coming-of-age genre. As we await future seasons, one thing is clear: “Young Royals” has left an indelible mark on the landscape of television, proving that sometimes, the simplest stories are the most powerful.