Meghan Markle's latest project as executive producer, the documentary Cookie Queens, earned $327,797 (around £245,000) worldwide in its opening weekend, trailing behind a 70-minute cat video compilation. The film, which follows four American Girl Scouts competing to become the top cookie seller, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January and opened in cinemas on August 7.
Box office performance
According to Box Office Mojo, Cookie Queens opened in 446 theatres but failed to make the weekend's top 10 releases. It was beaten by CatVideoFest 2026, a compilation of cat videos submitted by fans, which took $568,414 (around £425,000) worldwide despite opening in just 255 theatres.
Industry criticism
Industry sources were critical of the documentary's performance. Speaking to The Times, one source said: "Not taking the good name of the world's No. 1 cat video festival in vain, this is by any measure a pretty pitiful return."
The documentary was directed by Alysa Nahmias and distributed by Roadside Attractions, which previously distributed Morgan Spurlock's Super Size Me.
Meghan's personal connection
Before the film's release, Meghan explained why the project was meaningful to her. She said: "As a former Girl Scout myself, with my mom as my troop leader, I have a personal affinity for this film and am proud that Archewell Productions has partnered with this award-winning team to executive produce this incredibly captivating film."
She added: "Alysa's creative point of view, the edgy yet humanizing tone and tenor of the directing, and the glimpse behind-the-scenes into such a nostalgic and also modern tradition of Girl Scout Cookie season are absolutely irresistible."
Distributor's response
Despite the slow start, Roadside Attractions remained positive about the documentary's future. In a statement to Deadline, the distributor said: "We're encouraged by the response, and believe the film has a long life ahead as it continues to reach its many audiences."
Cookie Queens is the latest project from Archewell Productions, the company founded by Prince Harry and Meghan in 2020 after they stepped down as senior working members of the Royal Family. It has also produced projects including Harry & Meghan, Live to Lead, Polo and Masaka Kids: A Rhythm Within.
