Although “The Crown” is one of the most popular shows on Netflix, some believe the series could cause the downfall of the royal family. Since its premiere in 2016, “The Crown,” which chronicles the life of Queen Elizabeth II, has reportedly become one of the most expensive TV shows ever made.

A political journalist recently suggested that the success of the series could create problems for Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles, and the rest of the royal family.

John Sergeant told RadioTimes that the royal family should feel threatened by the crown. “In the past, there has been an implicit deal between us and them,” he said.

“We expect them to be royal and distant, and they, in turn, are not expected to answer back and complain if the media coverage is excessive, or plain wrong,” the veteran broadcaster continued.

Sergeant claimed the show’s rumored budget, and the onscreen portrayal of the family’s luxurious lifestyle may cause the public to turn against them.

“This ‘deal’ now seems to have broken down, and I’m concerned about the way the family is portrayed in ‘The Crown.’ I’m not sure they should be portrayed at all in a multi-million-pound blockbuster of this sort,” he explained.

The veteran broadcaster suggested viewers may confuse the show with reality and grow to resent the royal family. “The more skillful the casting, the more adept the direction, the more stunning the costumes, the greater the danger that people will believe they’re being told the truth,” he said.

“I think we’re now asking too high a price of the royals,” Sergeant added.

Although the palace has not acknowledged reports suggesting “The Crown” is a threat to the monarchy, several members of the royal family have admitted they do not watch the Netflix series.

Prince Charles and Queen Elizabeth II
Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles pose with officers during an official visit to the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment at Hyde Park Barracks on October 24, 2017 in London. Getty Images/Chris Jackson