'American Royals' heads to Netflix with 'Red, White & Royal Blue' co-writer attached

Netflix is developing 'American Royals', a YA drama from 'Red, White & Royal Blue' co-writer Ted Malawer and Alloy

Netflix has landed American Royals, a young adult drama based on Katharine McGee’s bestselling book series, with Red, White & Royal Blue co-writer Ted Malawer attached to write the television adaptation.

According to Deadline, the Netflix series is being developed in partnership with Alloy Entertainment and Warner Bros. Television. The story imagines an alternate history in which George Washington became king of the United States instead of being elected president.

The American Royals TV series will follow the young members of the fictional American royal family as they navigate relationships, family expectations and the competition surrounding the crown. Romance plays a central role in the story, with two princesses competing for the throne and two young women vying for the prince’s affection.

Malawer will executive produce the project alongside Leslie Morgenstein, president and chief creative officer of Alloy Entertainment. Warner Bros. Television, which owns Alloy Entertainment, will serve as the studio.

The project marks Malawer’s return to Netflix after previously working as a writer on the streamer’s limited series Halston, starring Ewan McGregor. He also co-wrote the film adaptation of Red, White & Royal Blue, another popular story centred on contemporary royalty.

McGee’s American Royals book series was published by Ember and consists of four novels: American Royals, Majesty, Rivals and Reign. The franchise also includes the prequel novella Inheritance.

Alloy Entertainment is behind several successful young adult properties, including Gossip Girl, Pretty Little Liars and You. The company is also developing The Probability of Miracles for Prime Video.