In a dramatic twist of streaming fate, Netflix's acquisition of the legal drama 'Suits' has shattered records, becoming one of the platform's most-watched shows ever. However, for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, the news is decidedly more mixed.
Their much-anticipated documentary series, 'Live to Lead', has failed to capture the public's imagination, achieving viewing figures that pale in comparison to the royal couple's previous Netflix venture, the explosive 'Harry & Meghan' docuseries.
A Tale of Two Series
Industry data reveals a stark contrast. 'Suits', in which Meghan Markle starred as paralegal Rachel Zane, has dominated the cultural conversation and Nielsen's streaming charts for weeks, amassing billions of minutes of watch time. Its success is a testament to its enduring appeal.
Conversely, 'Live to Lead', a inspirational series profiling various leaders which Harry and Meghan executive produced, has languished. Reports suggest its initial audience was a fraction of that for 'Harry & Meghan', failing to break into Netflix's own Top 10 chart in the crucial UK and US markets.
Questions Over the Sussexes' Netflix Deal
This lacklustre performance has led commentators to question the future output and commercial viability of the couple's lucrative multi-year deal with the streaming giant, estimated to be worth over $100 million.
Their next major project, a "at-home" style reality series reportedly similar in format to Keeping Up with the Kardashians, was initially paused by Netflix. While it is now said to be back in development, its trajectory underscores the challenges the couple faces in transitioning from revealing personal documentaries to creating broader, commercially successful content.
The disparity in success between a show Meghan simply acted in years ago and one they have actively produced highlights the unpredictable nature of the streaming world and the immense pressure on Archewell Productions to deliver a bona fide hit.
