The Next Prince: A Thai BL Drama That Redefines Royalty and Romance
on the edge of their seats. Produced by Domundi and Mandee Work, this 14-episode series, which aired from May 3, 2025, to August 2, 2025, on iQIYI, has been lauded for its stunning production, compelling characters, and a narrative that transcends typical BL tropes. Here’s why The Next Prince is a must-watch for fans of BL, royal dramas, and anyone craving a fresh, emotionally charged story.
A Kingdom of Intrigue: The Premise
Set in the fictional kingdom of Emmaly, a land of abundance divided into five regions, the series revolves around a fierce competition to determine the next monarch. According to royal law, each region must send an heir to compete, with the winning heir’s father ascending as king. The story follows Khanin (played by NuNew Chawarin Perdpiriyawong), a young man raised in England, who is revealed to be an heir of the Atsawathewathin royal family. Reluctant to claim the throne, Khanin is brought back to Emmaly by his loyal royal bodyguard, Charan (played by Zee Pruk Panich), whose family has served the royals for generations.
As Khanin navigates a web of political maneuvering, assassination attempts, and buried family secrets, his relationship with Charan evolves from duty-bound to deeply personal, sparking a forbidden romance that captivates audiences. The series masterfully balances high-stakes drama with emotional depth, making it more than just a love story—it’s a tale of loyalty, identity, and power.
Why It Stands Out
1. Cinematic Production Quality
The Next Prince has been praised for its lavish production, with breathtaking palace sets, intricate costumes, and cinematic cinematography that rivals international series. Fans on X have called it a “visual masterpiece,” noting that the attention to detail in everything from fencing scenes to royal attire elevates the show to a new level for Thai BL dramas. The soundtrack, described as “touching” and “chilling,” perfectly complements the emotional and political tension.
2. Zee and NuNew’s Electric Chemistry
The heart of the series lies in the dynamic between Khanin and Charan, brought to life by Zee and NuNew’s undeniable chemistry. Fans have raved about their growth as actors since their previous collaboration in Cutie Pie (2022), with NuNew’s emotional portrayal of Khanin’s vulnerability and Zee’s stoic yet tender depiction of Charan stealing the show. Moments like Khanin’s breakdown upon learning the truth about his lineage or Charan’s quiet, longing glances have left viewers in tears.
3. A Fresh Take on BL Tropes
Unlike many BL dramas that rely on high school settings or predictable dynamics, The Next Prince offers a sophisticated narrative. The series explores complex themes like familial betrayal and political intrigue, with morally grey characters that keep viewers guessing. Reviews highlight the confident and competent portrayal of Khanin as an “uke” (the softer romantic lead) and the absence of an abusive “seme” (dominant lead), refreshing the genre’s often repetitive dynamics.
4. Action and Suspense
The show’s action sequences, particularly the fencing competitions central to the throne’s succession, are a standout. Zee’s fight scenes have been described as “top-notch,” while the suspense of assassination attempts and hidden agendas adds a thrilling edge. Fans on X humorously note that “everyone in Emmaly is suspicious,” with each character’s motives shrouded in mystery, making the plot unpredictable and engaging.
Highlights and Fan Reactions
Emotional Depth: Scenes like Khanin’s discovery of his true roots and Charan’s unwavering loyalty have resonated deeply, with fans praising the show’s ability to evoke laughter, tears, and cheers.
Cultural Impact: Posts on X highlight the series’ mainstream appeal, with Thai audiences, including those new to BL, praising its production quality and global competitiveness. The Bangkok Post’s categorization of the show as a “Thai Romantic Action Drama” signals its role in normalizing diverse love stories.
Critiques and Room for Improvement
While the series has been widely celebrated, some reviews point out minor flaws. The pacing can feel uneven in certain episodes, with subplots occasionally rushed or underdeveloped. Some critics argue that the first episode’s reliance on montages hinders initial audience immersion, and the use of CGI has been called “degrading” in parts. Despite these critiques, the series’ strengths far outweigh its shortcomings, with most agreeing it sets a new standard for BL dramas.
Why You Should Watch
The Next Prince is a triumph of storytelling, blending romance, action, and political drama in a way that appeals to both BL enthusiasts and general audiences. Its high production values, stellar performances, and a plot that keeps you guessing make it a standout in 2025’s Thai drama lineup. Whether you’re drawn to the forbidden romance between Khanin and Charan, the thrilling competition for the throne, or the lush visuals of Emmaly, this series delivers on every front.