The future of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s relationship with Netflix is increasingly uncertain, as the streaming giant reassesses its investment in Archewell Productions following a string of underperforming projects and reports of strained communication. While their initial foray into streaming with the documentary Harry & Meghan proved a major success, subsequent ventures have failed to maintain that momentum, leading to questions about the long-term viability of the partnership. The situation has reach to a head with Netflix’s recent decision to divest from Markle’s lifestyle brand, As Ever, signaling a potential shift in strategy.
The initial deal, struck in 2020, promised a wide range of content from the couple’s production company, Archewell Productions, encompassing scripted and unscripted films and series. However, over the past 18 months, Archewell’s output has largely focused on Meghan Markle’s consumer products brand, As Ever, which launched 11 months ago with teas, jams, and baking mixes. This pivot, coupled with lackluster ratings for projects like the docu-reality series With Love, Meghan, has reportedly raised concerns within Netflix, sparking speculation about the future of the collaboration. The core issue surrounding the Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Netflix deal centers on whether the couple can deliver consistent, engaging content that justifies the investment.
A Shift in Tone and Performance
According to six individuals with knowledge of both Netflix and the Sussexes, as reported by Variety, the relationship has been far from seamless. A key point of contention appears to be the couple’s repeated revisiting of their departure from royal life, which some within Netflix believe has develop into repetitive. “The mood in the building is ‘We’re done,’” one Netflix insider reportedly said. The show With Love, Meghan, intended to showcase Markle’s lifestyle brand, faced criticism and ultimately saw its second season cancelled.
The performance of With Love, Meghan also raised questions about the effectiveness of integrating e-commerce with streaming content. Ratings for the series were described as “on par with other lifestyle series” by a Netflix insider, but the show’s primary function as a platform for As Ever reportedly concerned executives. Adding to the challenges, sources allege that communication between Archewell Productions and Netflix has been problematic, described as “poor.”
The As Ever Disinvestment and Unsold Inventory
Last week, Netflix officially announced its separation from As Ever, a move that intensified speculation about the broader state of the partnership. Variety reported that Netflix stepped down as a backer of the lifestyle brand, allowing Markle to continue growing it independently. A Netflix spokesperson stated the company was “glad to have played a role in bringing that vision to life” and looks forward to seeing how Markle continues to develop the brand.
However, the divestment also revealed logistical challenges. Sources claim that approximately $10 million worth of unsold As Ever products remained in Netflix’s possession following the show’s underwhelming ratings. The products were reportedly distributed to employees, displayed on card tables in various office buildings. Archewell Productions countered this claim, stating that the sample giveaways were standard practice.
Differing Accounts and Official Responses
Reports also surfaced alleging friction between the Sussexes and Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos, with claims that the couple insisted on having legal counsel present during conversations with him. However, a Netflix spokesperson vehemently denied this, calling the claim “absolutely inaccurate.” The Sussexes’ lawyer also refuted the allegation, stating that Markle “texts and speaks with Mr Sarandos regularly, and has been to his home, sans lawyers.”
Despite the reported tensions, Netflix Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria offered a more conciliatory assessment, describing Archewell as a “thoughtful and collaborative partner.” She added that the Duke and Duchess were “deeply engaged in the storytelling process and [brought] a unique, global perspective that aligns with the kinds of impactful projects our members respond to.”
What’s Next for Harry and Meghan at Netflix?
While the future remains uncertain, Netflix’s decision to step back from As Ever suggests a recalibration of the partnership. The streaming giant is likely to seek projects that demonstrate a clearer path to profitability and broader audience appeal. Archewell Productions has stated It’s “grateful for Netflix’s partnership through launch and our first year” and is “ready to stand on its own,” with an “exciting year ahead.” The next step will be to observe what recent content Archewell Productions develops and whether it can regain the momentum of their initial documentary success with Harry & Meghan, which marked the highest documentary debut ever for the platform.
The evolving dynamic between the Sussexes and Netflix underscores the challenges of navigating the streaming landscape, where content is king and consistent performance is paramount. As the couple seeks to establish themselves as prominent figures in the entertainment industry, their ability to deliver compelling and commercially viable projects will be crucial to maintaining their presence on major platforms like Netflix.
What are your thoughts on the future of Harry and Meghan’s media ventures? Share your opinions in the comments below.
