The Netflix series The Royals brings a fresh spin to modern aristocracy, blending high-stakes family secrets with corporate ambition. At the center of the chatter is the enigmatic character Maurice, whose true identity and connection to the royal family drive major plot twists. If you're trying to figure out who plays Maurice, what his real role is in the story, and how the rest of the star-studded ensemble fits together, here's the complete breakdown.
The search intent behind uncovering Maurice usually points to viewers wanting clarity on the show's complex final episodes, character motives, and the core cast lineup. While initial promotional looks teased a web of intrigue, the actual series delves deep into legacy, hidden affairs, and media leaks. Let's unpack the cast, the identity of Maurice, and the answers you need.
Who Is Maurice in The Royals?
The character known as Maurice is actually Adi Mehta, played by veteran actor and musician Luke Kenny. Throughout the series, Maurice's presence hangs over the royal family of Morpur due to his past relationship with the late Maharaja Yuvanath Singh (played by Milind Soman).
Before the Maharaja married Maharani Padmaja (played by Sakshi Tanwar), he and Maurice shared a profound personal history. This connection resurfaces because of a hidden will and a manuscript that Maurice intends to publish. While Maurice promises Padmaja that he will protect the family's privacy and keep their secrets safe, his looming presence triggers a massive sequence of events that unravels the royal household.
Did Maurice Leak Aviraaj's Secret?
A major point of confusion for viewers is the explosive climax where Prince Aviraaj Singh's legitimacy is called into question by the press. When the media confronts Aviraaj with the devastating rumor that he isn't Rani Padmaja's biological child, suspicion immediately falls on Maurice because of his book.
However, Maurice explicitly denies leaking the information, stating that he kept his promise. It's later revealed that the leak came from Ayesha Dhondi, a power-hungry princess who uses secrets as leverage. Maurice remains a witness to the truth rather than the villain who betrays the family.
The Complete Cast of The Royals on Netflix
Beyond the mystery of Maurice, the series features a massive ensemble cast blending seasoned Bollywood veterans with new-age talent.
- Ishaan Khatter as Prince Aviraaj Singh: Aviraaj is drawn into palace life and caught in a tense dynamic with Sophia, balancing royal privilege with personal ambition.
- Bhumi Pednekar as Sophia Kanmini (or Shekhar): Sophia is a sharp, ambitious corporate CEO who clashes with traditional royal mindsets as she helps restore the family's historic haveli.
- Zeenat Aman as Maa Ji: A major highlight of the series, playing a fiercely independent elder who brings eccentric charm and wit to the palace corridors.
- Sakshi Tanwar as Maharani Padmaja: The strong-willed queen managing her sons, royal politics, and complex emotional relationships.
- Milind Soman as Maharaja Yuvanath Singh: The modern monarch whose past choices and letters set the entire plot in motion.
- Nora Fatehi as Ayesha Dhondi: A striking, calculating princess who acts as a primary antagonist.
- Vihaan Samat as Digvijay Singh: The emotional and unpredictable young prince.
- Dino Morea as Nawab Salauddin Khan: A character navigating the realities of modern nobility.
For more details on the production background, you can explore updates directly on Netflix or read reviews via outlets like The Hollywood Reporter India.
Common Misconceptions and Plot Details
Many viewers stumble on specific narrative threads because the show moves quickly between corporate boardrooms and royal estates. Here are a few corrections to common mix-ups:
- Maurice isn't a traditional villain: While promotional materials frame him as an enigmatic threat, his character functions more as a keeper of historical truth than a malicious antagonist.
- The setting isn't historical: The Royals is set firmly in the present day, focusing on how modern royals try to monetize and rescue failing palaces (like turning Moti Bagh into a boutique hotel).
- Character name variations: Some promotional materials and early reviews interchange character surnames, such as Sophia Kanmini versus Sophia Shekhar, but the core narrative role remains identical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who plays Maurice in The Royals?
Maurice is played by actor and musician Luke Kenny. His character's birth name in the series is Adi Mehta.
Is The Royals based on a true story?
No, The Royals is a fictional romantic comedy-drama series created by Rangita Pritish Nandy and Ishita Pritish Nandy for Pritish Nandy Communications.
Who actually leaked Aviraaj's secret to the press?
While the family initially suspects Maurice, the leak is executed by Ayesha Dhondi, played by Nora Fatehi, as part of her strategic power play.
How many episodes are in season 1?
The first season consists of bingeable episodes focused on the rivalry, romance, and corporate restructuring of the Morpur estate.
