Exclusively on Apple TV+.
In the eclectic and often absurd world of television, few shows capture the nostalgic elegance and comedic chaos of the past like Apple TV+’s new series, “Palm Royale.” Set against the backdrop of 1969 Palm Beach, the series not only serves as a love letter to a bygone era of fashion and social decorum but also as a satire of the lengths to which people will go to climb the social ladder. With an ensemble cast that includes legends like Carol Burnett and pop icons like Ricky Martin, “Palm Royale” has quickly become a topic of fascination and entertainment. Luckily, I got the chance to sit down with eight-pack donning actor and producer, Ben Palacios, who plays Ricky Martin’s “love interest” (let’s call it) in the show, as the Prince of Luxembourg (let’s just say they have a little…fling)… who had nothing but great things to say about working with this star-studded cast.
The 35-year-old multi-hyphenate American actor (also known for his role in “Sistas,” “Silicon Beach,” and for producing “Hunkappella”)–that at first glance on Instagram you’d think should be the next face of Calvin Klein–couldn’t help but express how amazing his experience working with the cast on the show was. “For a show full of characters that are such diabolical narcissistic monsters, everyone on set, the whole cast, the directors, and the production team from the top down, were so welcoming and kind and sweet and generous with their time–it was really lovely,” says Palacios.
Am I wrong? Or is it just getting hot in here… lol. Needless to say, I wasn’t surprised to hear that Palacios is also a model, producer, singer/songwriter, self professed “a capella geek,” voice actor, celebrity nanny, Enrique Iglesias’ hand double (for real–he shared how he actually did all the POV shots for him in his music video, “Turn the Night Up”) and the list goes on.
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A look at the TV series: Palm Royale
“Palm Royale” invites viewers into a world where the elite’s desire for recognition and power unfolds in uproarious scenarios, each filled with intricate plots and sharp dialogues. The series navigates through the lives of its characters with a vibrant flair, encapsulating the essence of the late ’60s with all its opulence and the emerging cultural shifts.
The show’s aesthetic is meticulously crafted, featuring period-accurate costumes (which I’d say deserves all the awards and accolades on it’s own, to say the least) that range from flamboyant leisure suits to elegant evening gowns, embodying the extravagant lifestyles and fashion sensibilities of its time. These visual elements not only enrich the narrative but also help anchor the comedic elements in a tangible, relatable reality.
Comedic elements and societal commentary
At its core, “Palm Royale” is a comedy, but one that manages to weave in commentary about social climbing, gender dynamics, and the quest for social status. The humour is both situational and character-driven, deriving laughs from the absurdity of its characters’ actions and the unexpected consequences they face. This comedic approach allows the show to tackle themes of feminism and social power dynamics under the guise of humour and satire.
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The star-studded ensemble
The inclusion of stars like Carol Burnett and Ricky Martin adds a significant draw to the series. Burnett’s legendary comedic timing and Martin’s charismatic presence blend seamlessly with the ensemble cast, creating a dynamic chemistry that is rare and delightful to watch. In his role, Martin plays a character entwined in a complicated romantic liaison with Ben Palacios’s character, the Prince of Luxembourg—a pairing that adds a delicious layer of intrigue and romance to the plot.
During our interview, Ben Palacios shared insights into his character and the series. “It’s a show full of diabolical social climbers who all have an agenda,” he explained, highlighting the ambitious nature of the series’ characters. Palacios also discussed preparing for his role with the help of an accent coach to perfect a Luxembourg accent, a detail that showcases his dedication to his role.
Ben Palacios on working with the King of Latin Pop: Ricky Martin
Palacios spoke so highly of his experience working with Ricky Martin, describing him as “so sweet” and “earnest,” which contrasted sharply with the “rock star” persona he had anticipated. This off-screen camaraderie translated into genuine on-screen chemistry, particularly in scenes that required a nuanced portrayal of intimacy and connection.
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“One scene I did with Ricky… we were in this beautiful presidential hotel suite… and it’s like a post-coital scene,” Palacios recounted. The authenticity and spontaneity in these moments were palpable, further enhanced by the actors’ willingness to embrace their characters’ complexities fully.
Cultural impact and viewer expectations
“Palm Royale” does more than just entertain; it invites audiences to reflect on the parallels between the societal norms of the 1960s and those of today. Through its comedic lens, the series explores themes of equality, ambition, and the often ludicrous nature of societal expectations.
As the series unfolds, viewers can expect a rollercoaster of emotions, adorned with laughter, retro glamour, and a critical look at social dynamics. With its stellar cast and sharp writing, “Palm Royale” promises to be a beacon of comedic and stylistic brilliance in the landscape of modern television.
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Apple TV+’s “Palm Royale” is honestly a cultural artifact, that resonates with the timeless human desire for belonging and recognition, all while making us laugh at the absurdity of it all. As the series progresses, it undoubtedly continues to captivate and amuse along the way, leaving a mark, so you don’t want to stop watching.
This ambitious project, with its blend of humour, historical nuance, and social commentary, beautifully encapsulates the essence of an era while holding up a mirror to the viewers’ contemporary lives. For anyone looking for a show that combines amazing acting, intricate storytelling, and a dose of nostalgia, “Palm Royale” is not to be missed.
As for Ben Palacios, it was such a pleasure chatting with him and theres no doubt in our mind that he’s worth keeping an eye on. He’s definitely got that “stardust,” if you will… I can’t wait to see what he does next. And make sure to check him out on Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, another one of his most recent roles that’s available on Netflix.
Lastly, if you haven’t already (considering we plugged Iglesias above as Palacios has played his hand double, lol), don’t forget to plug into Enrique Iglesias latest album released, “Final Vol. 2” now streaming on Apple music. 😉
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