‘The Royals’ Undergoes Creative Shift, Jasmeet K. Reen of Darlings fame Steps In as Director (EXCLUSIVE)

Netflix India's “The Royals” is undergoing a major creative change for its second season. Variety India has exclusively learned that “Darlings” fame Jasmeet K. Reen has been roped in to helm the second season of the Ishaan Khatter-led romantic comedy series.

Jasmeet will take over the directorial duties from Nupur Asthana, who directed the first season along with Priyanka Ghose. Nupur is said to have exited the show due to her prior commitments — she is directing another Netflix series for Ekta Kapoor's banner. Priyanka, however, is understood to remain associated with the project. Pre-production is currently underway, with shooting expected to commence in July 2026.

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This directorial transition comes just weeks after reports surfaced that Bhumi S. Pednekkar, who played the female lead opposite Ishaan Khatter in the first season, will not be a part of the upcoming season. Makers have attributed her exit to the creative overhaul, as the show is now shifting its focus towards the internal dynamics of the royal family. Industry insiders suggest that the series is evolving from a light-hearted romantic comedy into a more realistic family drama. This change in narrative direction is also believed to have led the makers to choose Reen as director, given her reputation for nuanced, character-driven storytelling.

Jasmeet K. Reen made her feature film directorial debut with Alia Bhatt, Shefali Shah and Vijay Varma-starrer critically acclaimed black comedy, “Darlings” (2022). Next, she is set to helm an ambitious period drama based on the life of legendary Indian actress Madhubala. “Dhurandhar” actress Sara Arjun will headline this project, set to be produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Jasmeet is expected to finish “The Royals” shooting before beginning the Madhubala biopic by the end of this year.