Meghan Markle's Netflix Mystery: Cosying Up to CEO After Brand Split
Meghan Markle has been spotted in a surprisingly warm encounter with Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos and his wife, Nicole Avant, just weeks after the streaming giant severed ties with her lifestyle brand, As Ever. This development raises questions about the true nature of her relationship with the platform amidst recent business changes.
A Social Gathering in Montecito
Both Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attended the Beef Season Two Tastemaker event in Montecito, California, where they were photographed mingling with high-profile guests. The images captured the Duchess and Mr Sarandos with their arms around each other, smiling broadly for the camera. In another shot, the two couples stood closely together, with Meghan and Ms Avant holding hands, suggesting a friendly rapport that contrasts with recent professional developments.
The event also featured notable figures such as actor Orlando Bloom, singer Katy Perry, former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau, and British actress Carey Mulligan. This social appearance comes at a curious time, given that Mr Sarandos has unfollowed both Meghan and the As Ever brand on Instagram, hinting at a potential cooling of their business relationship.
As Ever Brand Stands Alone
Last month, a spokesperson for Meghan announced that her lifestyle brand, As Ever, was "ready to stand on its own" following the conclusion of its partnership with Netflix. The streaming firm had initially partnered with Meghan’s jam-selling venture when it launched last year, but recent data indicates challenges for her Netflix projects.
Figures released earlier this year revealed that the Duchess’s Netflix show, With Love, Meghan, failed to crack the top 1,000 most-watched programmes on the platform. The second instalment ranked as the 1,124th most-watched show between July and December 2025, garnering only two million views. Despite this, a spokesperson for As Ever expressed gratitude for Netflix’s support during its launch phase, stating, "We have experienced meaningful and rapid growth and As ever is now ready to stand on its own. We have an exciting year ahead and can’t wait to share more."
Netflix's Statement and Ongoing Deals
Netflix issued a statement acknowledging Meghan’s influence, 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, and we look forward to celebrating how she continues to bring joy to households around the world."
This social interaction occurs against the backdrop of significant financial agreements between the Sussexes and Netflix. In 2020, after stepping down as senior working royals, Meghan and Prince Harry signed a contract estimated to be worth over 100 million US dollars (£74 million) with Netflix. They also secured a first-look deal for film and television projects, granting Netflix the first option on any projects from their Archewell production company.
Recent weeks have seen announcements of new collaborations, including a polo-themed drama set in Wellington, Florida, which will follow two rival teams and their families. This scripted series is part of their ongoing first-look deal with Netflix, and a spokesman for the Sussexes hinted at more production announcements with Netflix and other streamers in the near future.
The juxtaposition of Meghan’s friendly demeanour with Netflix executives and the brand’s independent path suggests a complex dynamic, where personal relationships may persist despite business realignments. As the Sussexes continue to navigate their media ventures, this episode highlights the intricate balance between public image, private friendships, and corporate partnerships in the entertainment industry.
