‘Royal Pains’ season 7, episode 1 review: Hank and Evan’s close calls

After almost a year away, “Royal Pains” returned Tuesday night with an episode that was all about transition. We saw that almost right away with Hank. Years ago, this was a man so afraid of commitment that he decided that he would never hold down a long-term relationship. However, tonight this was a man so willing to move forward with Charlotte that he proposed … albeit a little prematurely. She was not ready, but at least she helped to make Hank realize that he was ready to get to that point with someone.

By the end of the episode, we did see Hank set up for a date almost against his will, and maybe this is a step in the right direction. He’s been so slow at times when it comes to dating, maybe it is better for him to dive in with both feet.

While Hank nearly got engaged tonight, for a time it appeared as though Evan was about to be a dad! It turned out to not be the case, which ultimately makes this the second fake-out from the promo that was released by USA before this episode aired. This did still at least help to start thinking that way with Paige, and we would be shocked if this is not a serious plot point for the two by the time we make it to the end of this season … if not the start of season 8 next year.

Yes, we did miss Jeremiah greatly tonight, and for Divya it feels already like the story is setting up to be a massive custody battle. Her stopping to help a skateboarder in need was a noble act, but somehow her locking her daughter in the car for a moment to tend to him will probably lead to trouble down the road. What happened to her with the police at the end of the episode is proof of that.

We’re never going to say that “Royal Pains” is revolutionary television; the fact that someone is constantly in danger is remarkable. Yet, we still find it to be as big a slice of summer fun as ever, and this premiere was no exception … even if the ending tonight with Divya’s arrest actually made us a little more depressed than we’re accustomed to with this show. Also, Boris has a Batcave! Grade: B+.

What did you think about the “Royal Pains” premiere episode? Share with a comment.