Netflix has made a bold move, seemingly distancing itself from Meghan Markle by dropping her podcast deal while backing Prince Harry’s ex-girlfriend, Cressida Bonas, as she launches her own show. This decision raises questions about Meghan’s influence and credibility in the entertainment industry, especially after her lucrative Spotify deal collapsed in 2023. Could this signal that audiences are losing interest in Meghan’s self-focused narratives?
Meghan Markle’s podcast, *Archetypes*, was part of her multi-million-dollar deal with Spotify and was initially expected to be groundbreaking. However, it was canceled after just one season, with industry insiders criticizing it as unproductive and lacking originality. Reports surfaced that Meghan didn’t conduct her own interviews, instead relying on pre-recorded clips and extensive editing. Even Spotify executive Bill Simmons went so far as to call Meghan and Harry “grifters.”
Netflix, which had also inked a deal with Meghan and Harry under their production company, Archewell, appears to be following a similar path by distancing itself from Meghan’s podcasting ventures. Once eager to collaborate with the couple, the streaming giant seems to have recognized that Meghan’s projects often fail to meet expectations.
In stark contrast, Cressida Bonas, who dated Prince Harry for two years, has successfully launched her own podcast with Netflix’s support. Unlike Meghan, Cressida has largely stayed out of royal drama and focused on her career, earning respect as an actress, writer, and entrepreneur. Her podcast is expected to be engaging and insightful—free from the self-victimization that Meghan’s critics argue has defined her media ventures.
Unlike Meghan, Cressida has demonstrated an ability to create content that resonates with audiences without leaning on royal connections or controversy. Netflix’s decision to back Cressida over Meghan signals a significant shift in industry sentiment.
Meghan’s Hollywood ambitions continue to face setbacks. Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, she and Harry secured multi-million-dollar deals with Netflix and Spotify, promising compelling content. However, while Harry’s documentary *Heart of Invictus* received lukewarm reactions, Meghan’s projects have failed to generate lasting interest. Now, with Netflix choosing to invest in Cressida instead of Meghan, it’s clear that Hollywood prioritizes results over royal connections.
Meghan’s once-powerful PR machine appears to be faltering, with public perception turning against her. While she and Harry continue to brand themselves as global humanitarians and media moguls, their lack of tangible success in entertainment is becoming increasingly evident. With Netflix backing Cressida Bonas and cutting ties with Meghan’s podcast, the message is clear—Hollywood values talent and results over controversy and past grievances.
As Cressida, who once walked away from the royal spotlight with grace, carves out her own path in the industry, Meghan may find it increasingly difficult to stay relevant in a world that demands more than just a famous name.
