Diagonal TV dramatises Spanish monarchy

Spanish prodco Diagonal TV, part of Banijay Iberia, is developing a drama series about Spain’s monarchy.

Sergio Vila-Sanjuán

Diagonal TV is working with journalist and novelist Sergio Vila-Sanjuán to make the 22-part series, which will be called Royal Palace: Brilliance & Tragedy of the Spanish Monarchy.

The show will follow the trajectory of four generations of the Bourbon family between 1900 and 2014. Vila-Sanjuán’s research will dramatise biographical and historical circumstances to depict the reigns of Alfonso XIII, Don Juan de Borbón and Juan Carlos I, until the abdication in favour of the latter’s son Felipe VI.

From life in the palace, luxury, parties, heroism and love to power struggles, terrorism, disease and coups d’états, Royal Palace will portray a momentous and nuanced approach to the Spanish monarchy, according to the producers.

Vila-Sanjuán said: “There’s an enormous responsibility when developing a story around true events, especially as we follow a monarchy with exceptional destinies and outstanding virtues. But like any humans, they made mistakes. These errors had massive consequences for their country, and this fascinating story will leave viewers gripped.”