In a move that could redefine their public narrative and further strain their already fragile ties with the British royal family, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly in talks with Netflix to produce a documentary about the late Princess Diana, Harry’s beloved mother. The project, speculated to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Diana’s tragic death in 1997, has sent shockwaves through both the entertainment industry and royal circles. Netflix’s bold stance—“If Harry wants to do it, they’ll bite his hand off”—underscores the streaming giant’s eagerness to capitalize on the Sussexes’ royal connections. But what does this mean for Harry’s hopes of reconciliation with his family, and why is this documentary poised to be a cultural lightning rod?
The idea of a Diana documentary spearheaded by Harry is both deeply personal and inherently controversial. Princess Diana, often dubbed the “People’s Princess,” remains an enduring global icon whose life was marked by glamour, compassion, and tragedy. Her death in a Paris car crash at the age of 36 left an indelible mark on the world, particularly on her young sons, Harry and William. For Harry, who was just 12 when he lost his mother, the pain of her absence has been a recurring theme in his public reflections. In his memoir Spare, he described the anguish of walking behind her coffin and the lingering hope that she might still be alive, hiding somewhere from the relentless media. This documentary, expected to blend intimate storytelling with historical reflection, could offer Harry a platform to honor his mother’s legacy while sharing his unique perspective as her son.
The proposed documentary, rumored for a 2027 release, aligns with Netflix’s renewed partnership with the Sussexes through their production company, Archewell Productions. This new deal, described as a “first-look” agreement, gives Netflix priority access to Harry and Meghan’s projects while covering operational costs for their team. Unlike their initial $100 million deal signed in 2020, this arrangement is reportedly scaled back, reflecting Netflix’s cautious approach after mixed results from the couple’s recent ventures. Their 2022 docuseries Harry & Meghan was a global phenomenon, amassing millions of viewing hours by offering an intimate look at their royal exit. However, subsequent projects, like Meghan’s lifestyle show With Love, Meghan, have struggled to replicate that success, prompting speculation about the couple’s ability to deliver blockbuster content.
A documentary about Diana could be the game-changer Netflix craves. Industry insiders suggest the project would draw massive audiences, capitalizing on Diana’s universal appeal and Harry’s emotional connection to her story. The film could explore Diana’s humanitarian work, from her advocacy for AIDS patients to her campaign against landmines, while also delving into her tumultuous personal life, including her high-profile divorce from then-Prince Charles. Harry’s involvement—potentially as co-executive producer and narrator—would lend authenticity, offering a perspective that blends familial love with cultural analysis. The documentary might include archival footage, rare photos, and interviews with those who knew Diana, creating a multifaceted portrait of a woman whose life continues to captivate millions.
Yet, the project’s potential to stir controversy cannot be ignored. Diana’s life was intertwined with the royal family’s most turbulent moments, including her bitter feud with Charles and her complicated relationship with the media. Any documentary that revisits these events risks reopening old wounds, particularly for Harry’s father, King Charles III, and his brother, Prince William. The specter of Camilla, now Queen Consort, looms large—Diana famously referred to her as the “third person” in her marriage. A documentary that portrays Diana’s struggles candidly could be perceived as a direct slight against the current monarchy, further deepening the rift between Harry and his family. Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Harry has been vocal about his strained relationships, and this project could be seen as another salvo in a long-running feud.
The stakes are high for Harry personally. He has spoken openly about his desire for reconciliation, yet a documentary that probes sensitive family history could jeopardize those hopes. The royal family has maintained a cautious silence about Diana in recent years, with William and Harry previously collaborating on projects like the 2017 documentary Diana, Our Mother: Her Life and Legacy. At the time, William emphasized that they would not speak publicly about their mother again, suggesting a desire to protect her memory while moving forward. Harry’s decision to revisit Diana’s story could be interpreted as breaking that unspoken pact, potentially alienating his brother further.
Netflix, however, sees the documentary as a golden opportunity. The streaming platform has faced pressure to justify its investment in the Sussexes, especially after the underwhelming performance of projects like Heart of Invictus. A Diana documentary, with its promise of global viewership, could restore the couple’s standing as must-watch content creators. Meghan’s role in the project remains unclear, but her experience as a producer and her knack for storytelling could complement Harry’s personal insights. Together, they might craft a narrative that balances reverence for Diana with a modern perspective on her cultural impact.
Beyond the royal drama, the documentary could resonate with audiences grappling with themes of loss, legacy, and resilience. Diana’s story is one of triumph and tragedy, a reminder of the human cost of fame. For Harry, it’s a chance to reclaim his mother’s narrative from tabloid sensationalism, presenting her as the compassionate, trailblazing woman he knew. Yet, the risk of backlash looms large, both from the royal family and from critics who may accuse Harry of profiting from his mother’s tragedy.
As discussions continue, the world watches with bated breath. Will Harry and Meghan forge ahead with a project that could redefine their legacy, or will they tread carefully to preserve what little remains of their royal ties? One thing is certain: a Princess Diana documentary has the potential to be a cultural milestone, blending heartbreak, history, and hope in a way only the Sussexes can deliver.
