The partnership between Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, and Netflix is facing increased scrutiny, with reports suggesting tensions behind the scenes despite ongoing projects. While the couple continues to develop new content—including a scripted series about polo—one media insider remains vocal about what he claims is a strained relationship with the streaming giant.
Doubts Over Deal Performance
Variety’s Matt Donnelly, in both a recent report and a follow-up appearance on The Royalist Podcast, has doubled down on the idea that Netflix is growing weary of working with the Sussexes. His core argument centers around the perception that Harry and Meghan require excessive oversight and their collaboration has not delivered sufficient value for the investment.
Donnelly suggests that Netflix’s hands-on involvement—described as “a lot of FaceTime” and “a lot of feedback”—indicates the duo is “tiresome.” He questions why Netflix would reduce support if the partnership was consistently profitable, stating it “defies common sense” from a business perspective.
Questionable Success of As Ever
Further fueling doubts is the fate of Meghan’s lifestyle brand, As Ever. While a spokesperson claims the brand is thriving and ready to operate independently, reports suggest leftover inventory is being given away to Netflix employees. This raises questions about the $60 million in alleged sales figures and whether the initial investment is justified.
Netflix Downplays Concerns
Netflix has publicly dismissed these claims as “absolutely inaccurate,” but the criticism persists. The company’s shift from an exclusive deal to a first-look contract in 2020 has been framed as a standard move amid Hollywood’s economic challenges. However, the timing and nature of the adjustment suggest a potential lack of confidence in future collaborations.
The ultimate test will be whether the Sussexes can prove these concerns wrong through the success of their upcoming projects. For now, the narrative remains divided, with one voice refusing to back down from his assessment of a strained partnership.
