The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, have confirmed the extension of their collaboration with Netflix, announcing a "multi-year, first look deal" that will let the streaming giant have the first option on projects developed by their production company, Archewell. This new arrangement is described as more flexible than their previous contract and counters rumors of a complete rift between the Sussexes and Netflix.
Meghan expressed their motivation behind this partnership, aiming to produce "thoughtful content across genres that resonates globally" and reflects their shared vision. Although specific details regarding the duration and financial aspects of the deal remain unclear, the initial agreement launched in 2020 was estimated to be worth around $100 million (£75 million).
Interestingly, the renewal arrives ahead of the anticipated release of the second installment of Meghan's cooking series, With Love, Meghan, set to debut later this month. However, initial audience numbers indicate that the first season of the series fell short, not making it into the top 300 most-watched shows on Netflix. The series, showcasing Meghan cooking with celebrity friends, garnered only 5.3 million views, while the platform's top show at the time, Adolescence, attracted 145 million views.
In contrast, the couple's prior documentary titled Harry & Meghan, detailing their transition from royal duties, achieved significant success, with 23.4 million views following its premiere in December 2022. Additionally, Archewell is launching a special holiday edition of With Love, Meghan, encouraging viewers to experience a festive celebration in Montecito alongside Meghan.
Accompanying the series is a food and beverage line called As Ever, featuring products such as rosé wine and jams. Later this year, audiences can expect a new project produced by Harry and Meghan titled Masaka Kids, A Rhythm Within, which tells the inspiring story of an orphanage in Uganda amid the lingering effects of the HIV/AIDS crisis.
Bela Bajaria, Netflix's chief content officer, praised Harry and Meghan as influential voices, asserting that their stories resonate widely, with the success of Harry & Meghan demonstrating the audience's desire for intimate perspectives into their lives.
