Netflix Aims to 'Erase the Chaos' of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, Pursues New Royal Alliance
Netflix is reportedly seeking to "erase the chaos" associated with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, and instead pivot towards a new royal alliance with Prince William and Princess Kate. This strategic shift comes as the streaming giant's lucrative multi-year deal with the Sussexes is believed to have ended, following the poor performance of series two of With Love, Meghan.
End of an Era for Sussex Deal
Sources indicate that Netflix's contract with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, valued at an estimated $100 million (£75 million), has recently concluded. The partnership, which spanned several years, was marked by controversy and mixed reviews, often putting Netflix at odds with Buckingham Palace. Meghan Markle, 44, has used media interviews in recent years to make scathing allegations about racism within the royal family, to which Prince William responded by stating, "We're very much not a racist family."
New Focus on William and Kate
According to royal journalist Rob Shuter, Netflix is now aggressively pursuing a deal with Prince William and Princess Kate, viewing them as a more stable and credible alternative. Shuter revealed, "Backchannel conversations are already happening — this is a live play, not a fantasy. They want to erase the chaos and replace it with credibility — and William and Kate are the crown jewels." A source told Shuter, "This isn’t about building something new — it’s about plugging into a royal brand that already works and is beloved."
Potential Content and Caution
Netflix is particularly interested in documentary-style programmes focusing on Prince William's Earthshot Prize and Princess Kate's advocacy for early childhood development through the Shaping Us campaign, rather than reality shows. However, the shadow of the Sussexes' past deal looms large. An insider explained, "They got burned once. They will not get burned again. It’s early, it’s delicate, but it’s real — and if it lands, it resets everything." Netflix is proceeding with caution to avoid pitfalls experienced previously.
Signs of a Shift
While Netflix has yet to comment on the speculation, recent actions hint at a change. Last week, Ted Sarandos, the Co-CEO of Netflix, unfollowed both Meghan Markle and her lifestyle brand, As Ever, on Instagram. This move aligns with reports that Netflix desires to repair damaged ties with Buckingham Palace and leverage the credibility of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Quiet lines of communication have already been established between Netflix and teams connected to William and Kate, as noted in Shuter's Naughty but Nice Substack. The streaming giant recognises the potential for a more harmonious partnership that aligns with its goals for stable, high-quality content.
