Meghan Markle Discusses Netflix Deal and Future of ‘With Love, Meghan’

Meghan Markle has addressed her partnership with Netflix, describing their latest deal as “an incredible sign of the strength of our partnership.” This statement comes in the wake of speculation that the streaming giant may be distancing itself from her and the Duke of Sussex. Five years ago, the couple secured a lucrative contract with Netflix, reportedly valued at over $100 million (£74 million), after stepping back from their roles as senior working royals in 2020.

In August 2023, the Sussexes announced a new “multi-year, first look deal for film and television projects,” allowing Netflix the first option on their content. Despite this announcement, critics have suggested that Netflix’s recent moves indicate a decreasing investment in the Sussexes, particularly following the mixed reception of Markle’s series, With Love, Meghan.

Meghan’s Comparison to the Obamas

Speaking at the Fortune Most Powerful Women summit in Washington DC, Meghan highlighted the similarities between her Netflix partnership and the deal secured by former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama through their production company, Higher Ground. She emphasized that the new arrangement provides Harry and herself with “flexibility” to explore different opportunities beyond Netflix.

“My husband and I were in an overall deal with Netflix, and then not just similar to Higher Ground… the extension of it was such an incredible sign of the strength of our partnership,” Meghan stated. She elaborated that this arrangement allows them to “shop content that might not be the right fit for Netflix, but has a home somewhere else.”

Meghan expressed gratitude for the partnership, noting its positive impact on her brand, As Ever, which features products like flower sprinkles and pre-prepared baking kits. She described the relationship with Netflix as supportive, stating it helps integrate the show’s content with her brand, allowing her to maintain autonomy in building her team.

Future of ‘With Love, Meghan’

When asked about the possibility of a third season of With Love, Meghan, the Duchess did not provide a definitive answer. She mentioned the upcoming holiday special set to launch in November, which she promised would be engaging.

“We’re able to say eight episodes for two seasons, it’s a lot of work,” she said. Meghan acknowledged the audience’s desire for diverse content formats, discussing her exploration of shorter segments that could complement her brand.

As for the As Ever brand’s retail future, Meghan hinted at potential partnerships with large retailers in the coming years. “My intention with As Ever is getting back to things that are tactile, how we connect with each other,” she explained. Meghan envisions bespoke collaborations that maintain a sense of quality while remaining accessible to consumers.

Despite the couple’s ambitions, public reception of their media projects has been mixed. Critics have not been kind to With Love, Meghan, with some reviews labelling it as “gormless lifestyle filler” and questioning its relevance. The series debuted on Netflix in March 2023, followed by its second season in August, coinciding with the launch of her As Ever brand.

The Sussexes’ relationship with Netflix has raised eyebrows, particularly following the conclusion of their podcast deal with Spotify in 2023 after just one season of Archetypes. An executive from Spotify later criticized the couple, describing them as “grifters.”

As they navigate this evolving landscape, Meghan Markle’s future projects and her partnership with Netflix will continue to attract attention, both for their content and the broader implications of their creative endeavors.