Ricky Martin Surprises As The Heart Of ‘Palm Royale’

On the surface, Apple TV+’s Palm Royale — repeatedly described as “eye candy” by its stars — might seem like a shallow stunner. The show’s grand aesthetics and stacked cast —which includes two Oscar winners (Laura Dern, Allison Janney) and two Emmy winners (Kristen Wiig, Carol Burnett) — will keep your eyes glued to the screen, but amidst all the petty drama, romantic affairs, lavish parties, and occasional murder attempts, the series impresses when it shines a spotlight on pressing issues of 1969 — from political tensions to the fight for basic human rights. In doing so, it establishes Ricky Martin as the heart of the show.

The 52-year-old singer, songwriter, and actor plays Robert Diaz, caregiver/pool boy to Norma Dellacorte (Burnett) and talented bartender at Palm Beach’s hottest social club. As the series progresses, Robert explores and opens up about his sexuality, something that motivated Martin — who publicly came out as gay in 2010 — to be a part of this story.

“For me, it’s about being the voice of people who are not being heard. Even though it’s a show that happens in the late ’60s, not only my character, but pretty much every character is sharing their secrets; secrets that I am sure a lot of people are dealing with even today,” Martin told Decider over a Zoom interview. “If it’s an era of politics, if it’s an era of human rights, if it’s an era of identity — for me to be able to to speak on behalf of those who don’t have a platform is really inspiring.”

In heavy, introspective moments, Martin successfully conveys Robert’s vulnerability, haunting guilt, and palpable longing for acceptance. As the series progresses, he reveals his character’s gentle, empathetic, and loyal nature, but the role also gives Martin room to play, cycling through a Rolodex of emotions as expansive as Norma’s blackmail device. Though Martin became a household name for many through his music, over the years he’s been on Broadway (Les Miserables, Evita, and Ché) and made on-screen appearances in General Hospital, Glee, and Ryan Murphy’s The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story — the latter of which earned him his first Emmy nomination. It’s no secret he can act, but Palm Royale provides the perfect platform to showcase his range.

In moments of passion (or any time Robert struts around the mansion in tiny swim trunks) Martin oozes sex appeal. Scenes spent doting over Burnett’s Norma or having heart-to-hearts with Dern’s Linda put Robert’s warmth on full display. And when sparring with Wiig’s Maxine, Martin proves he’s fiercely funny and fiery.

“The story is hilarious. So if you can add a little bit of humor to everything that you’re doing, even though it’s super dark and serious — just for a little — that’s the beauty of this show,” Martin told Decider. “In one scene you can be laughing and then the next one you’re crying, and the next one you feel uncertain because the writing is so amazing.”

With Palm Royale husbands (with the exception of Josh Lucas‘ Douglas) often out of focus, the series needed a man as special as Robert — and an actor as authentic and versatile as Martin — who could immerse himself in the women-dominated world of high society. Martin shines as Robert, nailing each charming, antagonistic, and emotional beat. He brings heart to the comedy and drama, simultaneously fitting in and standing out in a role that feels bespoke, even to him.

“I don’t care how it comes across, I’m just very sure about this show,” Martin said. “It’s very powerful. I’m very, very honored to be part of this.”

New episodes of Palm Royale premiere Wednesdays on Apple TV+.