Eugenie and Beatrice’s Support May Not Rescue Netflix Deal for Harry and Meghan

In 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex secured a multi-million-dollar contract with Netflix, marking a new chapter after royal duties.

November 26, 2024
By M Muzamil Shami

Reports highlight Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s positive relationship with Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice. However, royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams suggests that this bond alone is unlikely to influence Netflix’s decision to renew their lucrative deal.

After stepping back from their roles as senior royals, Harry and Meghan’s Netflix partnership began with the hit docuseries Harry & Meghan. The series broke streaming records, providing an intimate glimpse into their royal experiences, including Meghan’s first encounter with Queen Elizabeth II.

Despite this success, only one additional Netflix project, Heart of Invictus (released in August 2023), followed. Unfortunately, it did not replicate the massive success of their debut. With their upcoming release, POLO, scheduled for December 10, experts are skeptical about its potential impact.

Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams noted that Harry and Meghan’s estranged relationships with senior royals might deter Netflix from extending their contract. He emphasized the lack of fresh, engaging content about their lives, which could lower audience interest.

Fitzwilliams explained:
"Meghan’s connections with her mother, Doria Ragland, and Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice are notable, but these are insufficient to bolster their marketability.

"The challenge with POLO is that it’s perceived as an elitist sport, unlikely to resonate widely. Renewing the Netflix deal is critical for their future ventures, but the outcome remains uncertain."

Interestingly, Harry and Meghan were absent from the official Netflix trailer for POLO, though the trailer did include the credit: "Executive produced by Prince Harry and Meghan, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex."

The couple’s contract with Netflix is set to expire in 2025, leaving questions about their ability to deliver compelling, marketable content moving forward.