Amid much excitement and bold announcements, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly teaming up for two Netflix projects through their Archul Foundation or Archul Productions.
The couple themselves revealed the news, seemingly relying on Netflix’s hesitance to confirm the collaboration given their dwindling interest.
However, this latest venture, particularly the Polo series, has sparked uncertainties.
The statement from Archul Productions, founded by the couple post their royal departure, asserts that the series will explore the world of polo, highlighting its fervor and competitiveness.
Yet, doubts arise regarding Harry’s credibility as a professional polo player, casting doubt on his involvement.
Moreover, filming constraints at polo clubs present challenges, leading the couple to scout for alternative locations like Florida.
The Santa Barbara Polo and Racket Club, situated near their home, appears to be an ideal filming spot.
However, the affluent club members seem hesitant to participate, possibly due to concerns about privacy and reluctance to be linked with the project.
This apprehension may stem from perceptions of Harry and Meghan’s financial limitations and pursuit of fame, potentially diminishing the club’s exclusive image.
A royal expert suggested that Harry’s new polo endeavor for Netflix serves as a final effort by the streaming platform to salvage something from its reported $100 million deal with the couple.
Polo appears to be a last-resort attempt to extract value specifically from Prince Harry.
Royal expert Kinsey Schofield noted the streaming show’s descriptions in response to the partnership.
Since commencing the collaboration with the recently departed royal couple in fall 2020, the platform has only released three planned shows featuring them.
Originally, the agreement included children’s content, scripted series, films, and documentaries about Harry and Meghan.
However, only the documentary named after Harry’s Invictus initiative garnered attention due to its high ratings fueled by royal intrigue.
Essentially, the initial six-part reality show they unveiled was the Oprah interview, attracting millions of viewers eager to witness their revelations.
It became one of the most fast-forwarded programs on Netflix, but now that viewers perceive it as a mere money-making scheme, their interest may wane.
Nonetheless, with the recent announcement of two lifestyle-oriented shows featuring the couple, Netflix aims to emphasize luxury and aspiration, a category Polo fits into.
Netflix recognizes the public’s interest in glimpses of Prince Harry in unguarded moments.
The platform disclosed details of the program amidst the launch of Meghan’s new product line, expressing discontent that the former actress and Prince Harry diverted attention from their deal with the streamer.
Furthermore, Meghan’s involvement introduces additional complexities, given criticisms of her ventures like the American Riviera Orchard for alleged substandard quality and mismatch with luxury associations.
The couple’s frugal habits, exemplified by Meghan’s homemade jam gifts, starkly contrast with their previous royal lifestyle.
Additionally, Meghan’s tendency to disclose filming locations, including their current abode, raises privacy concerns and contradicts their professed desire for seclusion.
These discrepancies, coupled with Harry’s diminished public appeal, underscore the obstacles they encounter in their post-royal pursuits.
In essence, Harry and Meghan’s entry into Netflix production encounters various hurdles ranging from logistical obstacles to reputation-related challenges.
Their transition from royal duties to entertainment industry figures is met with skepticism, highlighting the intricacies of their new chapter.