Meghan Markle’s much-anticipated cooking show may be in jeopardy as Netflix reconsiders its relationship with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
Following the lukewarm reception of Prince Harry’s latest documentary, Polo, industry insiders suggest that the streaming giant’s confidence in the couple’s ability to deliver compelling content is waning.
Netflix’s patience with the Sussexes wearing thin?
When Meghan and Harry signed their $100 million Netflix deal in 2020, the promise was to create programming that “informs but also gives hope.”
However, their recent five-part series on polo, often seen as a sport for the elite, failed to resonate with critics and audiences alike.
Described as “unintentionally hilarious” and “tedious,” Polo struggled to justify its place on the platform, with minimal promotional support from Netflix.
Now, attention has turned to Meghan’s reported cooking and lifestyle series, which aims to explore themes of friendship, gardening, and entertaining.
While the project has been rumored for nearly a year, there is no confirmed release date, leaving questions about its future.
Reports suggest that filming may have begun earlier this year, but Netflix insiders remain tight-lipped about its progress.
Critics argue that Meghan’s culinary program represents a “make or break” moment for the couple’s Archewell Productions.
The project could potentially reinvigorate their brand if it succeeds, but after the cancellation of Meghan’s earlier animated series Pearl, confidence in their output is dwindling.
Hollywood experts have noted that the couple’s initial Netflix deal, set to expire next year, is unlikely to be renewed under similar financial terms.
“There won’t be another deal,” one insider said, though one-off projects could still be in the cards.
Adding to the uncertainty, Meghan’s absence from recent high-profile events, including Oprah Winfrey’s surprise party, has fueled speculation about the Sussexes’ declining status among Hollywood elites.
As Netflix evaluates the couple’s contributions, Meghan’s cooking show might be their last opportunity to prove their value to the platform.
Whether it becomes a turning point or another misstep remains to be seen, but the stakes for the Sussexes couldn’t be higher.