Young Royals Season 3 finale: Revisiting the 2021 Netflix drama's ending as Heated Rivarly fans look for their next binge-watch 

A still from the show (Image via Apple TV)
A still from the show (Image via Apple TV)

The Young Royals season 3 finale was released on Netflix in March 2024, delivering an emotional ending that left audiences worldwide in tears. This Swedish teen drama is unlike any other and has garnered a significant viewership worldwide; its final chapter provided the closure fans desperately needed. As Young Royals drew to a close, Prince Wilhelm's transformation journey from a traditional royal to a liberated teen reached its peak.

The show finale sees Wilhelm make a difficult choice between duty and love. After three seasons of internal conflict, the young prince finally comprehends what true freedom feels like. His relationship with Simon had been tested repeatedly by public scrutiny and royal expectations. The Young Royals season 3 finale does not hesitate form showing the sad reality of their situation making their eventual reunion even more strong.

What makes this conclusion particularly engaging is Wilhelm's growth throughout the show. He confronts his parents about their lack of empathy and discovers disturbing truths about his late brother Erik's participation in hazing rituals. These revelations shatter his idealised view of the crown, propelling him toward his final decision.

The most important angle is the show's similarity with the themes of Heated Rivalry and how the leads in the show explore their truth and fight the conflicts surrounding forbidden romance. Therefore, this show makes for a perfect viewing after watching Heated Rivalry.

Also See: Heated Rivalry fans should definitely watch this 2021 Netflix drama with 100% on Rotten Tomatoes


Wilhelm chooses freedom over duty in Young Royals Season 3 finale

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The Young Royals season 3 finale peaks in Wilhelm's abdication sequence, a moment that feels both inevitable and shocking. During the car ride from Hillerska to the palace, Wilhelm tells his parents that he does not wish to be the king. This decision clears the path for his cousin August to be the next king. The weight of this decision hangs heavy, but Wilhelm's relief is noticeable.

Simon's decision to end their connection stemmed from an understanding of the difficult position Wilhelm had encountered. He could not continue living under the strict demands of royal life. The breakup sequence in Young Royals hits hard because both characters are aware of their mutual love. However, their circumstances seem overwhelming. Simon's departure prompts Wilhelm to reflect on what he truly values in life.

The graduation ceremony brings bittersweet moments as the characters bid farewell to Hillerska, marking their transition from students to alumni. The school closes due to revelations about systemic abuse, adding a new layer to Wilhelm's disillusionment with old school institutions. Felice and Sara reconcile, while August encounters rejection from Sara, highlighting how everyone's journey in Young Royals ends in separate ways.


Simon and Wilhelm reunite in Young Royals season 3 finale

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Perhaps the most endearing aspect of the Young Royals season 3 finale is Wilhelm following Simon's car. After addicating the throne, he finds Simon leaving with Felice and Sara. When Wilhelm declares that he made this choice for himself, not only for Simon, it represents genuine growth. Simon needed to hear that Wilhelm's decision came from personal willingness rather than romantic obligation.

Their final kiss, shot in a sweeping 360-degree angle, might look theatrical, but it accurately captures their joy. The Young Royals season 3 finale ends with Wilhelm breaking the fourth wall one last time, offering audiences a subtle smile before the screen goes black. This callback to former seasons of Young Royals provides content symmetry while suggesting that Wilhelm has finally found his peace.

The lake scene earlier in the finale deserves special mention. Wilhelm and Simon swim together at sunrise, sharing vulnerable moments about their relationship. This sequence serves as both farewell and rebirth, with the characters literally and metaphorically stripped bare. The intimacy portrayed throughout Young Royals has always felt authentic, treating young queer love with respect and honesty.


The legacy continues beyond the Young Royals season 3 finale

The Young Royals Season 3 finale leaves audiences happy while sparking imagination about the characters' fate. Wilhelm and Simon drive away together, their destination is undecided, but their commitment is clear. This open ending feels perfect for Young Royals, suggesting their narrative continues beyond what viewers see.

This mirrors the end of Heated Rivalry season 1 finale, where the main characters Shane and Ilya also drive off into the sunset after coming out to Shane's parents and finally finding the peace and happy ending they deserve.

Both the finales remind audiences that sometimes the bravest choice is walking away from what is predictable. This makes Young Royals a show worth watching if you have been a fan of Heated Rivalry.

Edited by Sarah Nazamuddin Harniswala