Despite their crimes—including murder, simony, and incest—the Borgias were depicted as a "close-knit and loving family" prioritizing each other's survival.

While Irons was the initial draw, Francois Arnaud’s Cesare Borgia emerged as a standout, often overshadowing other characters with his "devious" and strong presence.

Season 1 of (2011) established the show as a visually stunning, high-stakes historical drama centered on the corruption and family loyalty of the infamous House of Borgia. Critical Reception & Style

Jeremy Irons received high praise for his portrayal of Rodrigo Borgia (Pope Alexander VI), capturing the character’s internal conflict and political ambition.

“These kinds of grand historical reimaginings can be a scrumptious combination of costume drama acting, soap opera theatrics and pay cable promiscuousness.” The Hollywood Reporter · 15 years ago

Critics and viewers often highlighted the show's "guilty pleasure" nature and its balance of historical drama with soap opera theatrics.