'Palm Royale' Episode 6 Takeaway: Maxine Simmons' awkward intimate moment with Robert Diaz raises questions
Contains spoilers for 'Palm Royale'
PALM BEACH, FLORIDA: Maxine Simmons (Kristen Wiig) and Douglas Dellacorte's (Josh Lucas) picture-perfect marriage, in Apple TV+'s 'Palm Royale', hits a rock after Maxine discovers about Douglas' past relationship with Linda Shaw (Laura Dern), followed by her silly attempt to cheat on him with Robert Diaz (Ricky Martin).
In 'Palm Royale' Episode 5, Maxine in a drunken state, throws herself at Robert following advice from Dinah Donohue to lower her guards and get herself a treat. However, Robert's reaction clearly indicated that he had no interest in being sexually involved with Maxine.
The awkward moment went undiscussed until Maxine finally decided to confront him in Episode 6.
Maxine Simmons confronts Robert Diaz about their intimate moment in 'Palm Royale'
As Douglas is busy putting together his investment deal, Maxine feels that he is drifting away from her. Her suspicion is triggered when Douglas refuses to take her to dinner with the Prince of Luxembourg.
Troubled by Douglas' recent behavior, Maxine confronts Robert, questioning whether he has disclosed her attempt to get involved with him to Douglas. Dismissing Maxine's assumptions, Robert asserts that women throwing themselves at him is a common occurrence and that he is unfazed by it.
Though Maxine is relieved that Robert didn't spill her secret to Douglas, she is low-key offended by Robert's lack of attraction towards her.
Why doesn't Robert Diaz pursue Maxine Simmons in 'Palm Royale'?
Maxine is not in love with Robert Diaz. Her flirting with Robert was driven by her heavy alcohol intake and Dinah's misguidance when Maxine felt betrayed by her husband. Although Maxine has no desire to have an extra-marital affair with Robert, she is having a hard time understanding why he doesn't want to be with her.
Maxine reveals that she isn't used to rejections. Therefore, when she confronts Robert yet again, he comes clean about his sexuality, mentioning that he is gay.
The revelation not only clears out the potential sexual tension on Maxine's side, but also suggests that Robert and Norma Dellacorte (Carol Burnett) aren't lovers, contrary to what the residents of Palm Beach believe.
Robert and Norma's relationship appears to be more sacred with no evil motives. As the episode concludes, we witness Robert being visited by the Prince of Luxembourg. Although the Prince is married to a woman, he has been hiding his sexuality and opts for a one-night stand with Robert.
Meanwhile, in the upcoming episodes, we hope to get more clarity on why Robert and Norma are so close to each other. We also expect to see Maxine and Douglas's relationship transforming their individual pursuit of power, status, and money.
Six episodes of 'Palm Royale' are available to stream on Apple TV+.
