A comprehensive report has delved into the Netflix partnership of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, addressing various claims regarding their collaboration since they signed their production deal in September 2020. The report, published by Variety, suggests that Netflix was allegedly caught off guard by the couple’s interview with Oprah Winfrey and the subsequent release of Harry’s memoir, “Spare.” However, representatives for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have categorically denied these assertions, asserting that communication with the streaming service has been open and ongoing.
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The Sussexes’ association with Netflix began shortly after they stepped back from royal duties, relocating to Montecito, California. Their first undertaking as part of the deal was the six-episode docuseries “Harry & Meghan,” which detailed their relationship journey, including their wedding and their decision to distance themselves from royal life. The project saw multiple changes in its creative team before Liz Garbus was brought on board to direct.
As the docuseries progressed, tensions reportedly arose surrounding the timing of various releases. In May 2021, the couple participated in a high-profile interview with Oprah that revealed personal insights, some of which were later shared in their docuseries. According to Variety’s report, Netflix expressed frustration over what they perceived as a lack of communication regarding the interview’s scheduling. Sources claimed that the streaming giant was informed about the interview only shortly before it aired, while representatives for the Duke and Duchess labelled this account as “categorically false.”
The spokesperson for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle noted that both Archewell and Netflix had legal counsel involved in overseeing their agreement’s evolution, a standard practice in Hollywood. Interestingly, insiders familiar with the situation contend that the couple’s deal permitted them to pursue external projects, including interviews and publications. As part of this framework, Netflix was reportedly aware of and approved both the Oprah interview and Harry’s book plans.
Following the interview, speculation surrounding Harry’s potential memoir gained traction. According to the report, some at Netflix were surprised by the announcement of “Spare” and concerned about how it might affect the release schedule for “Harry & Meghan.” Reports indicated that during meetings with Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos, Meghan suggested that any memoir was not an immediate priority and would be released much later, a characterisation the Sussexes’ representative has since disputed as “categorically untrue.”
While Netflix went ahead with releasing “Harry & Meghan” in December 2022, sources stated that this timing had always been part of the plan. However, the report implies that the timing of “Spare” may have created some friction between the couple and director Liz Garbus during the docuseries’ post-production phase. Allegedly, Meghan requested the removal of certain elements from the final edit, fearing that particular interviews could be distressing for the royal family, especially in light of Queen Elizabeth’s passing. Nevertheless, some at Netflix interpreted her request differently, believing it may have been a strategy to reserve details for the memoir.
As the dynamics of the partnership evolved, a recent announcement revealed that Meghan’s lifestyle brand, As Ever, was ending its partnership with Netflix to operate independently. A spokesperson communicated the brand’s gratitude for Netflix’s support during its launch and initial year, stating, “As ever is now ready to stand on its own.” The spokesperson highlighted an exciting year ahead for Meghan’s brand, which she finds fulfilling as it aligns with her authentic lifestyle.
A Netflix spokesperson confirmed their satisfaction in having contributed to the development of the As Ever brand, praising Meghan’s vision for enhancing everyday moments. They expressed their eagerness to see how she will continue to grow and develop the brand in its next chapter.
The ongoing narrative surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s relationship with Netflix illustrates the complexities of transitioning from royal duties to independent projects in the public eye. As both the couple and the streaming service move forward, they manage the intricacies of personal branding and storytelling, a prospect that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.