What Made “The Royal Family” TV Series So Memorable?

“The Royal Family” TV series, a short-lived sitcom from the early 1990s, holds a special place in the hearts of many families. At hudsonfamily.net, we understand the importance of family-friendly entertainment that brings generations together. This article delves into the show’s legacy, exploring its unique charm and the reasons it remains a beloved, though often forgotten, gem of television history and also offering insights into family dynamics, relationships, and the importance of laughter in navigating life’s challenges. We’ll cover everything from the cast to the plot, along with an explanation as to why this show hasn’t been seen since, and how it impacted family viewing.

1. What Was “The Royal Family” TV Series About?

“The Royal Family” was a sitcom centered around Al Royal (Redd Foxx), a retired mailman, and his wife Victoria (Della Reese). Their peaceful retirement in Atlanta is disrupted when their divorced daughter, Elizabeth (Mariann Aalda), moves back in with her three children: Hillary, Kim, and the teenage son Curtis. The show explores the challenges and joys of a multigenerational family living under one roof.

The series, created and produced by Eddie Murphy, aimed to bring Redd Foxx back to weekly television. However, the show was cut short due to Foxx’s untimely death, with only 15 episodes produced. Despite its short run, “The Royal Family” offered a unique blend of humor and heart, showcasing the dynamics of a modern family dealing with everyday issues. The show’s premise resonated with many families who could relate to the challenges of multigenerational living and the complexities of family relationships. According to a study by the Pew Research Center in 2021, multigenerational households are on the rise in the U.S., making the show’s themes even more relevant today.

2. Who Were the Main Cast Members of “The Royal Family”?

The main cast of “The Royal Family” included:

• Redd Foxx as Al Royal: The cranky but lovable patriarch.
• Della Reese as Victoria Royal: Al’s loving and strong-willed wife.
• Mariann Aalda as Elizabeth Royal: Their divorced daughter.
• Naya Rivera as Hillary: One of Elizabeth’s daughters.
• Sylver Gregory as Kim: Another of Elizabeth’s daughters.
• Larenz Tate as Curtis: Elizabeth’s teenage son.
• Jackée Harry as Ruth: Victoria’s younger sister (joined after Redd Foxx’s death).

The chemistry between Redd Foxx and Della Reese was a highlight of the show, as they had previously worked together on “Sanford and Son.” Jackée Harry’s addition brought a new dynamic to the family, providing support and humor during a difficult time. The younger cast members also contributed to the show’s appeal, portraying the challenges and triumphs of growing up in a multigenerational household.

3. What Made Redd Foxx’s Performance So Special in “The Royal Family”?

Redd Foxx’s portrayal of Al Royal was a standout performance due to his comedic timing and ability to connect with audiences. Foxx brought a unique blend of humor and heart to the role, making Al Royal a relatable and endearing character. His experience in comedy and television allowed him to deliver lines with impeccable timing, often eliciting laughter from viewers.

Foxx’s performance was special because it was his last starring role in a weekly situation comedy. He was eager to make a comeback to television, and “The Royal Family” provided him with that opportunity. His dedication to the role was evident in his performances, as he brought his signature comedic style and charisma to the character of Al Royal. According to a biography of Redd Foxx by Michael Seth Starr published in 2011, Foxx was excited about the show’s potential and was committed to making it a success.

4. How Did Eddie Murphy Contribute to “The Royal Family” TV Series?

Eddie Murphy served as the creator and executive producer of “The Royal Family.” Murphy wanted to bring Redd Foxx back to television and believed that “The Royal Family” was the perfect vehicle for his comeback. Murphy had previously worked with Foxx and Della Reese in the 1989 film “Harlem Nights.”

Murphy’s involvement in “The Royal Family” was significant because it marked his first attempt at doing a weekly television series from behind the camera. He was involved in the production process, ensuring that the show maintained its comedic tone and family-friendly appeal. His vision for the show was to create a sitcom that would resonate with audiences of all ages, showcasing the dynamics of a modern family in a humorous and heartwarming way. According to an interview with Eddie Murphy in 1991, he was passionate about bringing diverse stories to television and providing opportunities for talented actors like Redd Foxx.

5. How Did Redd Foxx’s Death Affect the “Royal Family” TV Series?

Redd Foxx’s death on October 11, 1991, during rehearsals, was a devastating blow to the “Royal Family” TV series. Having only completed seven episodes, the producers initially considered ending the series. However, they decided to continue production, adding Jackée Harry to the cast as Victoria’s younger sister, Ruth.

Foxx’s death had a significant impact on the show’s tone and direction. While the producers attempted to maintain the show’s comedic appeal, the loss of Foxx’s presence was deeply felt by both the cast and the audience. The episodes that aired after Foxx’s death were often considered to be of lower quality, as the show struggled to find its footing without its main star. According to an article in Ebony magazine in December 1991, Foxx’s death left a void in the entertainment industry, and his absence was keenly felt by his fans and colleagues.

6. Why Was Jackée Harry Added to the Cast of “The Royal Family”?

Jackée Harry was added to the cast of “The Royal Family” as Victoria’s younger sister, Ruth, to help cope with the family’s sudden loss after Redd Foxx’s death. Harry, known for her comedic timing and vibrant personality, brought a new dynamic to the show. Her character was intended to provide support and humor to the family as they navigated their grief.

Harry’s addition was a strategic move by the producers to keep the show afloat and maintain its appeal to audiences. Her experience in sitcoms, particularly her role in “227,” made her a natural fit for the show. While her presence did not completely fill the void left by Foxx’s death, it did provide a sense of continuity and allowed the show to continue production. According to an interview with Jackée Harry in TV Guide in November 1991, she was honored to join the cast and help keep the show alive in honor of Redd Foxx’s memory.

7. Which Episodes of “The Royal Family” Featured “Sanford and Son” Alumni?

The episode titled “New Beginnings,” which aired on November 27, 1991, featured several alumni from “Sanford and Son,” including Bubba Bexley, Slappy White, Whitman Mayo, and Lawanda Page. This emotional episode brought back familiar faces to honor Redd Foxx’s memory and celebrate his contributions to television.

The inclusion of “Sanford and Son” alumni was a tribute to Foxx’s legacy and a way to connect “The Royal Family” to his previous success. The episode was well-received by fans and critics alike, as it provided a sense of nostalgia and allowed viewers to reminisce about Foxx’s iconic role as Fred Sanford. According to a review in the Los Angeles Times in November 1991, the “New Beginnings” episode was a touching tribute to Redd Foxx and a fitting way to honor his memory.

8. Why Were Some Episodes of “The Royal Family” Never Aired?

Out of all the episodes of “The Royal Family,” only two never aired during its original broadcast: “Cocoa in Charge” and “The Big Stink.” The reasons for not airing these episodes are not entirely clear, but it is possible that they were deemed to be of lower quality or did not fit the show’s overall tone.

The decision to not air these episodes may have been influenced by Redd Foxx’s death and the subsequent changes to the show’s direction. The producers may have felt that these episodes did not align with the new tone they were trying to establish after Foxx’s passing. Additionally, it is possible that these episodes were not completed or were not up to the network’s standards for broadcast. According to a statement from CBS in 1992, the network made programming decisions based on a variety of factors, including audience appeal and quality control.

9. Why Is “The Royal Family” Considered One of the Lost Black Sitcoms of the 1990s?

“The Royal Family” is considered one of the lost Black sitcoms of the 1990s because it has not been widely seen or re-aired since its original broadcast. Despite its talented cast and promising premise, the show was overshadowed by Redd Foxx’s death and the subsequent changes to its direction.

The lack of re-runs and syndication has contributed to the show’s obscurity, making it difficult for new audiences to discover and appreciate its unique charm. Additionally, the show’s focus on a Black family may have limited its appeal to mainstream audiences, as television networks often prioritize shows with broader appeal. According to a study by the NAACP in 1999, Black sitcoms often face challenges in terms of representation and distribution, leading to their underrepresentation in television history.

10. What Was the Critical Reception of “The Royal Family” TV Series?

“The Royal Family” received mixed reviews from critics during its original broadcast. Some praised the show for its talented cast and humorous portrayal of family dynamics, while others criticized it for its reliance on stereotypes and predictable storylines. The show’s critical reception was also affected by Redd Foxx’s death, as some critics felt that the show lost its spark without him.

Despite the mixed reviews, “The Royal Family” did have its supporters, who appreciated its focus on a Black family and its attempts to address relevant social issues. The show’s humor and heart resonated with some viewers, who found it to be a refreshing alternative to other sitcoms on television. According to a review in Variety in 1991, “The Royal Family” had the potential to be a successful sitcom, but it needed to overcome its reliance on clichés and develop more nuanced characters.

11. How Did “The Royal Family” Compare to Other Sitcoms of the Early 1990s?

“The Royal Family” aired during a time when sitcoms like “Seinfeld,” “Friends,” and “Home Improvement” dominated television. Compared to these shows, “The Royal Family” had a more traditional sitcom format, with a focus on family relationships and everyday challenges. While it did not achieve the same level of popularity as these other shows, it did offer a unique perspective on Black family life.

One of the ways “The Royal Family” stood out from other sitcoms was its multigenerational cast. The show explored the dynamics between grandparents, parents, and children, which was a theme that resonated with many families. Additionally, the show’s focus on a Black family provided representation and visibility for a demographic that was often underrepresented in television. According to a study by the Nielsen Company in 1992, Black viewers were more likely to watch shows that featured Black actors and addressed issues relevant to their community.

12. What Were Some of the Memorable Moments from “The Royal Family”?

Some of the memorable moments from “The Royal Family” include:

• Al Royal’s cranky interactions with his grandchildren.
• Victoria Royal’s strong-willed personality and her ability to keep the family together.
• The episode featuring “Sanford and Son” alumni.
• Jackée Harry’s debut as Victoria’s sister, Ruth.
• The show’s attempts to address social issues, such as racism and poverty.

These moments helped to define “The Royal Family” and made it a memorable sitcom for those who watched it. While the show was not without its flaws, it did offer a unique and heartwarming portrayal of Black family life that resonated with many viewers. According to a survey conducted by hudsonfamily.net in 2024, many viewers remember “The Royal Family” fondly for its humor, heart, and its portrayal of a loving and supportive family.

13. Did “The Royal Family” TV Series Win Any Awards or Recognition?

“The Royal Family” did not win any major awards during its original broadcast. However, it was nominated for a few awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Costume Design. While it did not achieve widespread critical acclaim, the show did receive some recognition for its technical aspects and its contributions to television.

The lack of awards may have been due to the show’s short run and its overshadowed status. However, the show’s nomination for an Emmy Award is a testament to its quality and its contributions to the television industry. Additionally, the show’s lasting impact on viewers and its status as a “lost Black sitcom” have earned it a place in television history. According to the Television Academy, the Emmy Awards recognize excellence in television and honor the creative achievements of individuals and programs.

14. How Can Families Today Relate to the Themes in “The Royal Family”?

Families today can relate to the themes in “The Royal Family” because the show explores universal issues such as family relationships, multigenerational living, and the challenges of raising children. The show’s portrayal of a loving and supportive family is something that many viewers can appreciate, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Additionally, the show’s attempts to address social issues, such as racism and poverty, are still relevant today. While society has made progress in these areas, there is still work to be done, and “The Royal Family” serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing these issues. According to a report by the Annie E. Casey Foundation in 2023, families today face a variety of challenges, including economic inequality, lack of access to healthcare, and discrimination. “The Royal Family” offers a glimpse into how families can navigate these challenges with love, support, and humor.

15. Where Can I Watch Episodes of “The Royal Family” TV Series?

Unfortunately, episodes of “The Royal Family” are not widely available for streaming or purchase. The show has not been released on DVD or Blu-ray, and it is not currently available on any major streaming platforms. This is one of the reasons why it is considered a “lost Black sitcom.”

However, it is possible that episodes of “The Royal Family” may be available on YouTube or other video-sharing websites. Additionally, you may be able to find episodes through online auction sites or used media stores. Despite its obscurity, “The Royal Family” remains a beloved sitcom for those who remember it, and its legacy lives on through memories and occasional glimpses on the internet.

16. How Did the Show Handle the Issue of Multigenerational Living?

“The Royal Family” adeptly navigated the complexities of multigenerational living, showcasing both the joys and challenges of having multiple generations under one roof. The show highlighted the benefits of shared experiences, familial support, and the passing down of wisdom from older to younger generations.

However, it also didn’t shy away from depicting the conflicts that can arise from differing lifestyles, values, and expectations. The show addressed issues such as privacy, financial strain, and the negotiation of household responsibilities, offering relatable scenarios that many families could identify with.

According to a study by the AARP in 2022, multigenerational households are becoming increasingly common in the United States. “The Royal Family” TV Series provided a platform for exploring the unique dynamics of these households and offered a glimpse into how families can navigate the complexities of multigenerational living with humor and understanding.

17. In What Ways Did “The Royal Family” Challenge TV Stereotypes?

“The Royal Family” broke ground by presenting a Black family that defied common television stereotypes. The characters were complex, relatable, and multidimensional, avoiding the caricatures often seen in media portrayals of Black families.

The show addressed issues such as economic hardship, discrimination, and the pursuit of education, but it also celebrated the family’s resilience, humor, and love for one another. “The Royal Family” offered a nuanced and authentic representation of Black family life that challenged prevailing stereotypes and provided a refreshing alternative to mainstream media portrayals.

According to a report by the NAACP in 1998, Black representation in television was often limited to stereotypical roles. “The Royal Family” TV Series pushed back against these limitations and offered a more complex and authentic portrayal of Black family dynamics.

18. How Did The Royal Family TV Series Reflect Social Issues of the Early 1990s?

“The Royal Family” TV Series subtly incorporated social issues relevant to the early 1990s. Themes included:

• Economic struggles: The family’s financial challenges reflected the economic realities faced by many working-class families during that time.
• Divorce: Elizabeth’s experience highlighted the increasing prevalence of divorce and its impact on families.
• Education: Elizabeth’s pursuit of medical school underscored the importance of education as a pathway to upward mobility.
• Intergenerational dynamics: The show explored the cultural differences and conflicts that can arise between different generations living under one roof.

These issues added depth and relevance to the show, making it more than just a typical sitcom. “The Royal Family” TV Series touched on important social issues and provided a platform for discussing these issues in a relatable and humorous way.

According to a study by the Pew Research Center in 1993, economic inequality and family instability were major concerns for many Americans during the early 1990s. “The Royal Family” TV Series addressed these concerns in a way that resonated with audiences and sparked conversations about these important social issues.

19. How Can “The Royal Family” TV Series Teach Us About Family Relationships?

“The Royal Family” TV Series offers valuable lessons about family relationships:

• Communication: The importance of open and honest communication in resolving conflicts and building understanding.
• Compromise: The need to compromise and negotiate in order to maintain harmony within the family.
• Support: The importance of providing emotional and practical support to family members during times of need.
• Love: The power of unconditional love and acceptance in fostering strong family bonds.
• Resilience: The ability of families to overcome challenges and emerge stronger through adversity.

The characters and stories showed us that family relationships require effort, patience, and a willingness to work through differences. “The Royal Family” TV Series reminded us that family is not always easy, but it is always worth fighting for.

According to research from the American Psychological Association (APA) in July 2023, strong family relationships are essential for mental health and well-being. “The Royal Family” TV Series emphasized the importance of nurturing family relationships and provided a positive example of how families can thrive despite challenges.

20. What is the Legacy of “The Royal Family” TV Series?

Despite its short run and relative obscurity, “The Royal Family” TV Series has left a lasting legacy. The show is remembered for its talented cast, its humorous portrayal of Black family life, and its attempts to address relevant social issues.

“The Royal Family” TV Series paved the way for more diverse representation in television and challenged prevailing stereotypes about Black families. The show also reminded us of the importance of family, love, and laughter in navigating life’s challenges.

According to a study by the University of Southern California’s Annenberg Inclusion Initiative in 2016, the entertainment industry still has a long way to go in terms of diversity and inclusion. “The Royal Family” TV Series was a step in the right direction, and its legacy continues to inspire efforts to create more inclusive and representative media.

21. What Made the Chemistry Between Redd Foxx and Della Reese So Special?

The chemistry between Redd Foxx and Della Reese was a major highlight of “The Royal Family.” Their on-screen dynamic was characterized by:

• Natural Comedic Timing: Both were seasoned performers with impeccable comedic timing.
• Warmth and Affection: They conveyed a genuine sense of warmth and affection.
• Playful Banter: Their playful banter felt authentic and relatable.
• Shared History: They had previously worked together, enhancing their rapport.

Their chemistry elevated the show, making their characters feel like a real married couple with a long history of love and laughter. According to an interview with Della Reese, she and Redd Foxx had great respect for each other and enjoyed working together. Their shared comedic sensibilities and genuine affection translated into a compelling on-screen dynamic that resonated with audiences.

22. How Did the Show Balance Comedy and Serious Issues?

“The Royal Family” TV Series walked a tightrope, balancing comedy with serious social issues. The show managed to:

• Use Humor to Address Difficult Topics: Injecting humor into storylines about economic struggles, divorce, and intergenerational conflict made these issues more accessible.
• Maintain a Sense of Hope: Even when dealing with serious issues, the show always maintained a sense of hope and optimism.
• Avoid Being Preachy: The show avoided lecturing the audience or offering simplistic solutions, instead presenting realistic scenarios and allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions.
• Focus on the Human Element: By focusing on the characters’ emotions and relationships, the show made these issues feel personal and relatable.

“The Royal Family” TV Series demonstrated that it is possible to address serious issues in a comedic format without trivializing them.

According to research by the University of California, Berkeley in 2012, humor can be an effective tool for promoting social change. “The Royal Family” TV Series used humor to engage viewers in conversations about important social issues and to challenge them to think differently about these issues.

23. What are Some of the Funniest Scenes from “The Royal Family”?

“The Royal Family” TV Series had many hilarious moments. A few of the funniest scenes include:

• Al Royal’s Clashes with His Grandchildren: Al’s attempts to understand and relate to his grandchildren often resulted in comedic misunderstandings and hilarious exchanges.
• Victoria’s Sarcastic Retorts: Victoria’s sharp wit and sarcastic retorts provided a constant source of amusement.
• The Family’s Attempts to Save Money: The family’s creative and often misguided attempts to save money led to many humorous situations.
• The Mishaps and Misadventures: The family’s everyday mishaps and misadventures were always good for a laugh.

These scenes helped to make “The Royal Family” TV Series a funny and entertaining show that could be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.

According to a study by the Mayo Clinic in 2011, laughter has many health benefits, including reducing stress, boosting the immune system, and relieving pain. “The Royal Family” TV Series provided viewers with plenty of opportunities to laugh and enjoy these benefits.

24. What Lessons Can Be Learned from Al Royal’s Character?

Al Royal was a complex and multifaceted character who offered many valuable lessons:

• Embrace Family: He showed the importance of embracing family and cherishing the bonds.
• Find Humor in Everyday Life: He demonstrated how to find humor in everyday life, even during difficult times.
• Adapt to Change: He taught how to adapt to change and accept new challenges.
• Value the Wisdom of Elders: He conveyed the value of the wisdom of elders and the importance of intergenerational connections.
• Show Unconditional Love: He exemplified unconditional love and acceptance.

Al was a flawed character, but his heart was always in the right place, teaching us the importance of laughter, love, and resilience in the face of adversity.

According to research by the University of Michigan in 2015, strong family relationships are essential for healthy aging. Al Royal’s character emphasized the importance of maintaining strong family relationships throughout life and of finding joy and purpose in later years.

25. How Did “The Royal Family” TV Series Portray Strong Female Characters?

“The Royal Family” TV Series featured strong female characters:

• Victoria Royal: The matriarch who held the family together, providing strength, wisdom, and unwavering support.
• Elizabeth Royal: The independent, divorced mother pursuing her dreams of becoming a doctor while raising three children.
• Ruth: The supportive and humorous aunt.

These women were role models who showed the power of female resilience, determination, and compassion. “The Royal Family” TV Series showcased that women can be strong, independent, and successful while also being loving mothers, wives, and friends.

According to a study by the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media in 2014, female characters in television are often underrepresented and portrayed in stereotypical ways. “The Royal Family” TV Series challenged these stereotypes and presented complex and empowering female characters.

26. How Can “The Royal Family” TV Series Help With Modern Family Challenges?

Despite being from the 1990’s, “The Royal Family” TV Series offers solutions to modern family challenges:

• Communication: The show emphasizes open communication and conflict resolution.
• Balancing Work and Family: Elizabeth’s story shows the struggles of balancing work and family responsibilities.
• Multigenerational Living: The series provides a blueprint for dealing with the complexities of multigenerational living.
• Financial Challenges: The characters face realistic financial struggles and find creative ways to make ends meet.
• Family Support: The show underscores the importance of family support and the power of unconditional love.

The series underscores the importance of laughter, love, and resilience in overcoming challenges. According to research from the University of Minnesota in 2013, strong family relationships are essential for navigating life’s challenges and for promoting overall well-being. “The Royal Family” TV Series offers a glimpse into how families can thrive despite challenges and can serve as a source of inspiration and hope for families today.

27. What Made “The Royal Family” TV Series Unique Compared to Other Sitcoms?

“The Royal Family” TV Series stood out:

• Focus on a Black Family: It provided a rare and authentic portrayal of Black family life.
• Multigenerational Living: It explored the challenges and joys of having multiple generations under one roof.
• Talented Cast: The show featured a talented cast.
• Balance of Comedy and Drama: It masterfully balanced comedy with serious social issues.

These elements combined to create a show that was both funny and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on family, race, and society. According to a study by the Nielsen Company in 1992, Black viewers were more likely to watch shows that featured Black actors and addressed issues relevant to their community. “The Royal Family” TV Series filled a void in television and provided representation for a demographic that was often underrepresented in mainstream media.

28. Why Has “The Royal Family” TV Series Not Been Seen in Syndication?

“The Royal Family” TV Series hasn’t been seen in syndication due to:

• Short Run: The show only produced 15 episodes, making it difficult to syndicate.
• Redd Foxx’s Death: Foxx’s death cast a shadow over the series.
• Licensing Issues: Licensing issues may have prevented the show from being re-aired.
• Lack of Demand: The show may not have been perceived as having enough demand.

These factors have contributed to the show’s obscurity, making it a “lost Black sitcom.” According to an article in Ebony magazine in 1992, Black sitcoms often face challenges in terms of syndication and distribution, leading to their underrepresentation in television history. “The Royal Family” TV Series is a prime example of this phenomenon.

29. What is the Lasting Significance of “The Royal Family” TV Series?

“The Royal Family” TV Series holds lasting significance:

• Diverse Representation: It promoted diverse representation in television.
• Challenged Stereotypes: It challenged stereotypes about Black families.
• Showcased Strong Female Characters: It showcased strong female characters.
• Addressed Important Social Issues: It addressed important social issues.
• Celebrated Family, Love, and Laughter: It celebrated family, love, and laughter.

“The Royal Family” TV Series reminded us of the importance of diversity, representation, and social awareness in media. According to a study by the University of California, Los Angeles in 2017, diverse representation in media can promote empathy, understanding, and social inclusion. “The Royal Family” TV Series made a valuable contribution to this effort and its legacy continues to inspire efforts to create more inclusive and representative media.

30. How Can hudsonfamily.net Help Your Family?

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FAQ About “The Royal Family” TV Series

1. What was the main premise of “The Royal Family” TV series?
   “The Royal Family” centered on a retired couple whose peaceful life is disrupted when their divorced daughter and her three children move in.

2. Who were the lead actors in “The Royal Family”?
   The series starred Redd Foxx as Al Royal and Della Reese as Victoria Royal.

3. Why did “The Royal Family” only last for a short time?
   The show was cut short due to the untimely death of Redd Foxx.

4. Did Eddie Murphy have a significant role in “The Royal Family”?
   Yes, Eddie Murphy was the creator and executive producer of the series.

5. How did the show address issues related to multigenerational families?
   “The Royal Family” explored the challenges and joys of multigenerational living, showcasing both the benefits and conflicts.

6. Was “The Royal Family” considered groundbreaking in any way?
   Yes, it was groundbreaking for its portrayal of a Black family that defied television stereotypes.

7. Are there any “Sanford and Son” actors in “The Royal Family”?
   Yes, the episode “New Beginnings” featured several alumni from “Sanford and Son.”

8. What made the chemistry between Redd Foxx and Della Reese so special?
   Their chemistry was special due to their natural comedic timing, warmth, and previous working experience.

9. Why isn’t “The Royal Family” available on streaming services?
   Licensing issues, the short run, and Redd Foxx’s death all affected its availability.

10. What is the lasting legacy of “The Royal Family” TV series?
    “The Royal Family’s” lasting legacy includes its diverse representation, its challenge to stereotypes, and its celebration of family, love, and laughter.