Netflix Frustrations: The Sussexes Face Uncertain Future Amidst Content Delays

In a twist of fate for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Netflix appears to be growing increasingly frustrated with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

This revelation comes on the heels of their recent trip to Colombia, where the couple focused on raising awareness about online harms affecting children while sharing personal stories about parenthood.

While their intentions were noble, it seems that their professional relationship with Netflix is hitting some bumps in the road.

After the initial success of their documentary series, Harry and Meghan struck a lucrative deal worth millions with the streaming giant.

This agreement was supposed to pave the way for new projects, including a lifestyle series showcasing Meghan's culinary talents and a behind-the-scenes look at polo featuring Harry.

However, despite these ambitious plans, delays have raised eyebrows about the future of their collaboration with Netflix.

Royal biographer Angela Levin has weighed in on the situation, stating that the couple's upcoming projects might not see the light of day until at least February 2025.

Levin, known for her critical views on the Sussexes, expressed that Netflix is not particularly excited about the new content ideas proposed by the couple.

She noted that while their documentary was a hit, the subsequent ideas lack originality and appeal.

“They're not really keen on her cooking or Harry doing polo or her jam.

It's just not innovative enough,” she commented.

The delays have sparked speculation about Netflix's willingness to maintain its partnership with the Sussexes.

Levin suggested that the streaming service might be reconsidering its multi-million dollar contract due to the couple's failure to deliver fresh and engaging content.

When asked about the likelihood of a contract renewal, Levin was doubtful, saying, “Technically, they have messed up completely because they haven't done it properly.”

This potential fallout could pose a significant challenge for Harry and Meghan as they strive for financial independence.

Their previous contract with Spotify, estimated at around $20 million, ended abruptly in mid-2024 after only a limited amount of content was produced.

This raises concerns about their ability to fulfill high-profile deals moving forward.

Levin speculated that Harry might seek financial support from his father, King Charles, hinting at a possible reason for their recent desire to visit the UK.

Since stepping down as senior royals in 2020, Harry and Meghan have publicly emphasized their goal of achieving financial autonomy.

However, without the backing of major platforms like Netflix and Spotify, they may need to reassess their financial strategies and explore new avenues for income.

Adding to the complexity of their situation, the couple's recent Colombian tour has stirred controversy.

While they aimed to address online harms affecting children during their four-day visit, the lack of transparency surrounding their activities raised eyebrows.

Reports indicated that filming crews failed to capture sound during crucial moments, leading to questions about their narrative control.

Levin also noted that Prince Harry was reportedly asked to apologize for the legacy of slavery during the trip, but it remains uncertain whether he did so.

She speculated that the couple may have deliberately avoided recording audio to manage their messaging more effectively.

“I imagine Meghan wanted to keep control, and Harry didn't want any journalist to know exactly what he was saying,” Levin remarked.

Furthermore, Levin questioned the appropriateness of Harry making such an apology, considering Colombia's historical context.

She pointed out that Colombia was under Spanish rule until 1810 and had no direct ties to British involvement in the slave trade.

Additionally, she highlighted that Prince Albert had already issued an apology for Britain's role in slavery back in 1864.

As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex navigate their lives outside the royal family, their relationships with major media companies like Netflix will be crucial to their success.

Yet, with project delays, concerns about creativity, and mounting scrutiny over their public appearances, it's uncertain how they will sustain their brand moving forward.

With all eyes on the couple's next moves, speculation continues to swirl regarding Netflix's potential contract renewal and how Harry and Meghan will balance their public and private lives amidst growing challenges.

The world watches closely, eager to see if the Sussexes can turn the tide in their favor once again.