A Very Royal Scandal is a three-part Amazon Prime Video docudrama that delves into the events leading up to Prince Andrew’s infamous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview with journalist Emily Maitlis. The series provides an intriguing behind-the-scenes look at the decisions and power dynamics that led to one of the most disastrous royal interviews in history.
One of the show’s strongest points is how it builds an interesting backstory to the well-known interview, offering insight into the negotiations, preparation, and aftermath. It does a great job of humanizing both the journalistic and royal perspectives, showing how each side approached this high-stakes moment.
However, while the series is engaging, it does feel like there is a lot of filler at times. Despite its length, certain elements of the story feel rushed or left out, making it seem like some crucial details were missing. It raises plenty of thought-provoking questions about the events and what actually transpired, especially considering that Prince Andrew faced no further consequences despite the damaging nature of the interview.
A standout aspect of A Very Royal Scandal is the acting. The portrayals are exceptionally high quality, with the actors blending seamlessly into the real-life figures they are portraying. The performances feel natural rather than exaggerated, making the dramatization even more immersive.
This series is part of a broader collection of docudramas from the same creators, including A Very British Scandal and A Very English Scandal. While the stories are not directly linked, they share a similar approach to dramatizing real-life scandals with strong performances and gripping storytelling.
Overall, A Very Royal Scandal is an easy and quick watch, best suited for viewers who already have some knowledge of Jeffrey Epstein and the broader scandal surrounding Prince Andrew. While it may leave some wanting more depth, it remains an intriguing and well-acted look at one of the most shocking media moments in royal history.