Netflix Demands Refund from Filmmaker for Failed Sci-Fi Show

Netflix finds itself in a legal battle with filmmaker Carl Eric Rensch, seeking to reclaim the $11 million it invested in his ill-fated sci-fi series.

Rensch reportedly squandered the funds on risky stock trading and other investments, leaving the streaming giant empty-handed.

The revelation comes hot on the heels of reports that Netflix is also pursuing a similar course of action against Meghan and Harry.

According to inside sources, Netflix poured more than $40 million into Rensch’s show, granting him unprecedented creative freedom and a generous budget.

However, despite these investments, the company claims it has not received a single finished episode.

As a result, Rensch and Netflix are now embroiled in a confidential arbitration process initiated by the filmmaker himself.

Rensch argues that Netflix breached their contract and owes him a minimum of $14 million in damages.

Netflix, on the other hand, asserts that it owes Rensch nothing and even wired an additional $1 million to his production company, bringing their total investment to over $55 million, as confirmed by members of the show’s casting crew.

The troubles began for Carl Eric Rensch shortly after signing the contract with Netflix for the production of the Conquest series.

Sources close to the matter reveal that Netflix is also demanding a refund of the upfront fee from Meghan and Harry, despite the inability to extend their contract.

In September 2020, the couple inked a five-year, $100 million deal with Netflix to produce various content, including documentaries, docuseries, feature films, scripted shows, and children’s programming.

However, following the failure of their documentary “Harry’s Heart of Invictus,” the duo found themselves without any new projects in the pipeline.

Production has yet to commence, and they have failed to fulfill their obligations as agreed upon by both parties.

Neil Shaw, a royal expert, suggests that the massive $100 million deal has put Harry and Meghan in a precarious position as Netflix demands answers.

The company is seeking clarification about the couple’s plans for new content, separate from Rensch’s project.

Contrary to Rensch’s alleged financial mismanagement, it is believed that Meghan and Harry prioritize their spending on celebrity security teams and an abundance of Tableau articles.

These expenses are ultimately covered by Netflix subscribers.

The multi-million dollar deals signed with the Sussexes, coupled with the impending subscription rate increase, have drawn attention to Netflix’s financial strategy.

In the UK, the most expensive service will rise to £17.99 per month, while in the US, it will reach $23.

On the other hand, the three lowest pricing options will now cost £7.99 in the UK and $12 in the US.

In comparison, the Kardashians recently secured a $100 million contract with Hulu for two seasons, likely to be divided among the entire cast.

Even when divided among the six main characters, $100 million is still a substantial sum.

Given that the Kardashians, who are considered reality TV royalty, couldn’t secure $100 million per season, it seems highly unlikely that the Harkles will achieve such a feat.

Meghan did sign a new deal in 2022 worth an estimated $400 million, a staggering figure considering her track record of successful shows.

Nevertheless, there is no indication that the Harkles will earn $100 million solely from this project, especially considering the absence of any other announced projects.