Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced a new "multi-year first look" deal with Netflix through their Archewell Productions on Monday. The arrangement marks a significant shift from their previous partnership, according to PR experts who warn the couple must now prove their worth to the streaming giant.
The new deal gives Netflix first look at the Sussex couple's project ideas before deciding whether to invest. This differs from their previous arrangement which provided more guaranteed content production.
Performance concerns emerge
The couple has produced five projects for Netflix so far. According to industry sources, these include their documentary series "Harry & Meghan", "With Love, Meghan", "Polo", "Heart of Invictus", and "Live to Lead".
Only their 2022 docuseries "Harry & Meghan" proved to be a significant viewer hit. Later releases including "Polo" and "With Love, Meghan" saw mixed results.
Simon Brisk, co-founder at Click Intelligence, said: "Initial projects like Harry & Meghan drew huge viewership, but later releases (including Polo and With Love, Meghan) saw more mixed results. The downgrade suggests Netflix is now prioritising consistent ROI over celebrity wattage."
Industry shift reflects broader changes
Brisk noted how celebrity status shifts can have a "compounding effect on influence" and warned that how Harry and Meghan manage this narrative will determine whether "it's seen as reinvention or reduced demand". He explained that "fame without consistent cultural moments can lose negotiating strength".
The expert advised the couple to "lean into originality and speed" to succeed under the new structure. Brisk said: "In a first-look environment, it's the timely, conversation-driving projects that win. They must prove they can create a sustained impact without the safety net of guaranteed output."
Critical moment ahead
The couple faces pressure to demonstrate their ability to create conversation-driving content under the new arrangement. Brisk concluded: "The public is watching to see if this is a strategic pivot or a slow fade, and that makes the next project critical."
Sources used: "PA Media", "Express", "Daily Mail" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
