In a recent turn of events, tensions appear to be brewing between Netflix and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
Following their latest international trip to Colombia, where they raised awareness on the pressing issue of online harms affecting children, reports suggest that Netflix is becoming increasingly disillusioned with the couple.
While Harry and Meghan aimed to highlight significant global challenges during their visit, their professional partnership with the streaming giant seems to be encountering some serious bumps in the road.
After the success of their initial documentary series, Harry and Meghan secured a lucrative deal with Netflix.
This agreement promised a variety of projects, including a lifestyle series centered around Meghan’s culinary talents and a behind-the-scenes look at Harry’s polo pursuits.
However, despite these ambitious plans, progress has been sluggish, leading to growing concerns about the future of their collaboration.
Royal biographer Angela Levin has weighed in on the situation, indicating that any new projects from the couple are unlikely to materialize before February 2025 at the earliest.
Known for her critical perspective on the Sussexes, Levin pointed out that Netflix isn’t particularly excited about the content ideas proposed by Harry and Meghan.
She remarked that while their previous documentary was well-received, it was filled with complaints and did not set a precedent for future endeavors.
The lack of enthusiasm from Netflix raises questions about the sustainability of their multi-million dollar contract with the Sussexes.
Levin speculated that the streaming service may be reconsidering its commitment due to the couple’s failure to deliver innovative content.
With other options available, Netflix might not be inclined to renew their agreement, especially given the current stagnation in progress.
This uncertainty comes on the heels of the couple’s abrupt split from Spotify, which reportedly ended a contract worth around $20 million after producing only a small amount of content.
Such setbacks have led to speculation about Harry and Meghan’s financial stability and their quest for independence since stepping back from royal duties in 2020.
In light of these developments, Levin suggested that Harry might seek financial assistance from his father, King Charles.
She speculated that this could be a motivating factor behind their recent desire to return to the UK for a visit.
Without backing from major streaming platforms, the couple’s financial independence may soon require a reassessment of their strategies.
Adding to the complexity of their situation is the controversy surrounding their Colombian tour.
During their four-day visit, the couple addressed the impact of online harms on children, but they faced criticism for a lack of transparency.
Reports indicated that filming crews failed to capture sound during crucial moments, raising eyebrows about the couple’s control over their narrative.
Levin noted that there were calls for Prince Harry to apologize for the legacy of slavery during their visit, although it remains unclear whether he complied.
She speculated that the couple’s decision to omit audio recording might have been a deliberate move to maintain control over how their message was conveyed.
Furthermore, Levin questioned the appropriateness of Harry issuing an apology for historical injustices, particularly given Colombia’s historical context and its lack of direct ties to British colonialism.
She pointed out that previous apologies had already been made regarding Britain’s role in slavery, complicating any potential statements from Harry that could affect King Charles.
As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex continue to carve out their lives away from royal obligations, their relationships with major media companies like Netflix are crucial for their long-term success.
However, with ongoing delays and increasing scrutiny surrounding their public appearances, the path ahead remains uncertain.
The world watches closely as speculation mounts regarding whether Netflix will renew its contract with Harry and Meghan.
How the couple navigates their public and private lives amid these challenges could determine their future in the spotlight.
As the drama unfolds, fans and critics alike are left wondering what the next chapter holds for the Sussexes.