Netflix Ends $100 Million Deal with Harry and Meghan: What’s Next?

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s lucrative deal with Netflix is set to expire in September 2024, with sources indicating that the streaming platform will not renew the contract. This decision comes amidst a series of personal and professional challenges for the couple, who stepped back from royal duties in early 2020. Their relationship with the British royal family remains strained, a theme explored in both Harry’s memoir, _Spare_, and the Netflix docuseries, _Harry & Meghan_.

Netflix Deal Comes to an End

According to an insider cited by The Sun, “The deal is done; no more shows will be made.” The source elaborated that Netflix believes it has maximized its return on investment from the couple. Initial interest in their first documentary series translated into significant viewership, but it appears that momentum has since waned. The platform, which operates on a subscription model, reportedly has “no appetite” to extend its partnership with the couple, which has raised concerns about their financial future.

The couple’s reliance on this deal to maintain their lifestyle is apparent, particularly in light of their lavish $29 million mansion in Montecito, California. A source indicated that without the Netflix income, and without significantly reducing their expenses, they could be facing serious financial challenges.

Declining Popularity and Viewing Numbers

Despite the initial buzz surrounding their content, reports indicate that the couple’s latest project, _With Love Meghan_, launched in March 2024, has struggled to attract viewers. Ranking at 383rd on Netflix, the series garnered only 5.3 million views in its first six months, a stark contrast to the widespread attention of their earlier docuseries. Critics have commented on their apparent struggle as content creators, suggesting that the series feels forced and lacks authenticity.

As industry insiders noted, the couple’s transition from being a hot topic to a background presence highlights the challenges they face in the entertainment landscape. The decline in audience engagement could complicate their financial stability, with some suggesting that their creative bankruptcy might lead to financial difficulties.

In summary, the end of Harry and Meghan’s lucrative partnership with Netflix raises significant questions about their financial sustainability. As they navigate these challenges, the couple’s next steps will be closely monitored by both fans and critics alike.