Harry and Meghan ‘would find it impossible to recover from blow of losing Netflix contract’

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could face significant challenges if they lose their Netflix contract, according to royal expert Tom Quinn. The couple’s £100 million deal, signed in 2020, is reportedly under scrutiny as Netflix executives review the output so far. This comes on the heels of their Spotify deal ending prematurely, leading to concerns about their commercial viability.

The Netflix deal, a key part of Harry and Meghan’s financial independence after stepping down from royal duties, was intended to support the production of documentaries, films, and children’s programming. However, there have been concerns about the pace and quality of content delivered by the couple. Despite this, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are reportedly working on new projects to fulfill their commitments, including a cookery show featuring Meghan and a documentary about polo led by Harry.

The end of the Spotify contract, worth approximately £18 million, came after the couple failed to meet agreed production targets. Their only major release was the podcast “Archetypes,” which, despite its high-profile guests and initial success, did not generate the expected volume of content. This raised questions about their productivity and the feasibility of future high-profile deals.

Quinn suggests that losing the Netflix deal would be a severe blow to Harry and Meghan’s brand, which has relied heavily on their ability to leverage their royal connections and personal narratives. The financial implications would be substantial, considering the scale of the Netflix contract compared to other deals they have secured. Additionally, it would impact their credibility in the entertainment industry, where consistent delivery and quality of content are crucial for maintaining partnerships.

The couple’s departure from royal duties and subsequent move to California was partly driven by a desire for financial independence and the freedom to engage in commercial ventures. However, their journey has been fraught with challenges, including public and media scrutiny, legal battles, and the pressures of establishing a new brand outside the royal framework.

Despite these hurdles, Harry and Meghan remain committed to their content creation endeavors. Meghan’s potential cookery show could capitalize on her previous experience and interest in food and wellness, while Harry’s polo documentary might draw from his personal passion for the sport and its charitable connections. These projects, if successful, could help stabilize their standing with Netflix and demonstrate their value as content creators.

The couple’s philanthropic efforts, particularly through their Archewell Foundation, continue to be a focal point of their public image. They aim to address global issues such as mental health, racial equality, and environmental conservation. Successfully balancing their commercial and charitable activities is essential for maintaining their relevance and positive public perception.