Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Struggles: A Last Chance to Save Their Media Empire
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are facing significant challenges with their media projects, especially after the disappointing reception of their Netflix series Polo and the cancellation of their lucrative Spotify deal.
The couple's Netflix series Polo has raised concerns about their ability to maintain a successful partnership with the streaming giant. The poor reception of the show has prompted questions about their future in Hollywood and their ability to effectively run Archewell Productions. However, their separation of work responsibilities seems to be functioning smoothly without issues.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams told GB News that Meghan’s upcoming culinary series for Netflix might prove to be a game-changer. "What is absolutely pivotal is the renewal of the contract with Netflix next year. So, what happens financially in the coming months will be crucial," Fitzwilliams said. "They need a hit, and Meghan's cookery show could be the answer."
The Sussexes’ media struggles have been evident since they lost their $2 million Spotify deal in 2023, a setback that, coupled with the poor performance of Polo, has left many wondering if the couple can recover. Fitzwilliams noted, "They lost Spotify a while ago, and it doesn’t seem like there’s anything substantial financially on the horizon."
However, there is still hope for Meghan’s culinary series, which could help revitalize their brand. "When American Riviera Orchard and Meghan's cooking show launch, it will certainly give her much more visibility than her occasional appearances," Fitzwilliams added.
While the initial success of their Netflix documentary Harry & Meghan was a significant win for the couple, maintaining that momentum has proven to be challenging. Critics have noted that Polo failed to capture public interest, but Fitzwilliams pointed out, "I don’t think anyone was expecting Polo to have huge ratings."
Editor Charlotte Griffiths echoed these sentiments, stating, "It’s probably their last chance to make Archewell a truly successful TV production brand, so there’s a lot riding on the coming year."
Despite these challenges, the Sussexes continue to enjoy a loyal following in the United States and were named among Time's 100 most influential people in 2020. Fitzwilliams concluded, "They’ve changed their tactics, and we’ll see what it adds up to in the coming year."
Meghan Markle Will Not Support Prince Harry in Upcoming Legal Battle
Meghan Markle has decided not to support Prince Harry in his upcoming legal battle in the UK. The Duke of Sussex is set to go to trial in January 2025, suing News Group Newspapers, the publisher of The Sun. As in previous legal cases against British tabloids, Harry is expected to travel to the UK alone, without Meghan by his side.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams believes that Meghan’s absence is due to several reasons. "This will be a high-profile case, and Harry will appear alone, accompanied by enormous publicity," Fitzwilliams said. "Meghan will not appear. There’s no tactical reason for her to join him, and she is unlikely to give evidence."
Fitzwilliams also noted that Meghan’s absence during the 2025 Invictus Games in Canada would further indicate a form of separation between the couple. Over the past few months, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have increasingly made solo public appearances, rather than attending joint engagements.
Earlier this month, Prince Harry participated in events related to the upcoming Invictus Games in Vancouver on his own, marking an unusual departure from previous years when Meghan had always accompanied him. "If Meghan decides not to join him in Canada, it will fuel speculation about the future of their relationship," Fitzwilliams added.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Lonely Life in Montecito: A Documentary Reveal
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's seemingly idyllic life in Montecito has been questioned by a new documentary that paints a picture of their lonely existence in the celebrity-filled neighborhood. Titled Harry: The Lost Prince, this 45-minute film, set to air in Germany, examines whether the couple has truly succeeded in achieving the freedom and financial independence they envisioned.
The documentary, which has been in the making for over a year, critiques the Sussexes' attempts to position themselves as global benefactors bringing about tangible change. According to the filmmaker, Orri Grunewald, Harry and Meghan set the bar very high for themselves but have yet to meet these expectations.
Grunewald, a royal correspondent since 1987, traveled to Montecito to try and interview the couple and their friends. She found that the Sussexes had not fully integrated into the community’s elite circles. "On average, millionaires and billionaires who move here pay $8 to $9 million for a house," Grunewald noted.
This new perspective on their life in Montecito adds to the ongoing conversation about the Sussexes' shifting public image and their future prospects.
