Meghan Markle's Persistent Netflix Outreach Described as 'Annoying' by Royal Sources
The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, is reportedly employing what insiders have branded an 'annoying' strategy in her attempts to impress Netflix executives and revive her professional relationship with the streaming giant. This comes after her multi-year deal with Netflix, initially valued at up to $100 million (£74 million), concluded earlier this year following the underperformance of projects like With Love, Meghan.
Gift-Giving Campaign to Woo Netflix Bosses
According to sources, Meghan has been regularly reaching out to Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos and his wife Nicole Avant with personal gifts. These include handwritten letters, flowers, and even jars of her As Ever jam, a lifestyle brand she launched last year with financial support from Netflix. The Duchess was recently spotted socialising with Sarandos and his wife at a party in Montecito, California, suggesting her efforts to maintain connections despite the formal end of their partnership.
One royal insider revealed to journalist Rob Shuter that the tactic is not yielding the desired results. 'To some, it comes off as too much — and honestly, it’s not working. If anything, it’s becoming annoying. But Meghan believes it’s necessary. In her mind, this is how you repair — and secure — a relationship,' the source stated. Another insider noted the frequency of her outreach, saying, 'It’s constant — cards, gifts, deeply personal messages. She’s making sure they feel valued, remembered, and appreciated.'
Netflix Deal Aftermath and Independent Brand Moves
The Netflix deal, signed in 2020, led to several projects but faced turbulence due to critical reception and performance issues. In an official statement, Netflix commented on their involvement with the As Ever brand, saying, 'Meghan's passion for elevating everyday moments in beautiful yet simple ways inspired the creation of the As Ever brand, and we are glad to have played a role in bringing that vision to life. As it was always intended, Meghan will continue growing the brand and take it into its next chapter independently.'
Notably, Sarandos no longer follows Meghan or the As Ever brand on Instagram, indicating a potential cooling of their professional ties. Meanwhile, reports suggest Meghan may be considering a return to acting, having previously starred as Rachel Zane in the legal drama Suits for seven seasons before leaving in 2018 to marry Prince Harry and join the royal family.
The Duchess's mother-of-two status and her ongoing efforts to navigate post-royal career opportunities highlight the challenges she faces in maintaining high-profile partnerships in the competitive entertainment industry.
