Netflix Reportedly Severs Ties with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry
Netflix is said to have concluded its professional relationship with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, following the expiration of their multi-year production deal. According to sources within the streaming service, the mood internally is decisively final, with one insider bluntly stating, "We're done."
Archewell Productions' Netflix Partnership Falters
The collaboration between Netflix and Archewell Productions, the couple's media company, began in September 2020 with a five-year agreement. This partnership yielded several programmes, most notably the lifestyle series With Love, Meghan. However, the venture has reportedly been "far from a fairy tale," as described by individuals close to the Sussexes.
The second series of With Love, Meghan experienced a significant decline in viewing figures, leading to doubts about the viability of a third instalment. While Netflix's chief content officer, Bela Bajaria, publicly praised Archewell as a "thoughtful and collaborative partner," internal assessments suggest the relationship has soured.
Creative Exhaustion and Lacklustre Performance
A scathing analysis in Variety magazine, citing six well-placed sources, indicates that Netflix has grown weary of the Sussexes' narrative focus. The magazine reports that the couple's repeated emphasis on their exit from royal life has exhausted the streaming giant. Additionally, their "bedside manner" in meetings has reportedly ruffled feathers, compounding the issues.
Despite Netflix's insider claim that ratings for With Love, Meghan were "on par with other lifestyle series," the overall performance failed to meet expectations. This has led to questions about whether e-commerce integrations, as seen in the shows, represent a sustainable business model for future collaborations.
Future Prospects for the Sussexes
With the Netflix deal now concluded and prospects of renewal appearing slim, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are exploring new avenues. They are planning a significant charm offensive during an upcoming trip to Australia, viewed by some as a "make or break" endeavour to revitalise their public and professional standing.
Meghan continues to promote her As Ever product line, which was featured in the Netflix programmes. However, the loss of this major streaming partnership raises questions about the couple's remaining show business lifelines and their ability to secure similar high-profile media deals in the future.
The end of this chapter marks a pivotal moment for the Sussexes as they navigate their post-royal careers in the competitive entertainment landscape, seeking to rebuild and redefine their brand beyond the confines of their royal past.
