The Netflix drama The Crown has captivated viewers since 2016 with its lavish budget and bold portrayal of the British royal family. Yet, the latest decision by producers has sparked fresh outrage, leaving many questioning how far the streaming giant will go for attention and ratings. As the series recreates the heartbreaking final moments of Princess Diana’s life, the backlash continues to grow—while Prince Harry and Meghan Markle remain tied to Netflix through multi-million-dollar deals.
The Controversial Depiction of Diana
Recent reports revealed that Netflix filmed a detailed reenactment of Princess Diana’s final moments in Paris. Although producers claimed they would not show the exact crash, leaked images of a mangled Mercedes sparked fury among royalists. For many, including Princess Diana’s former butler Paul Burrell, the decision felt disrespectful and sensationalist. He argued that the Royal Family, as well as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, deserve dignity in how Diana’s story is told.
Paul Burrell’s Emotional Reaction
Paul Burrell, once described by Diana as her “rock,” spoke passionately about the impact of Netflix’s choices. He called the recreation “insensitive” and “heartless,” insisting that audiences already know how Diana died, and graphic depictions serve no purpose other than shock value. He asked the important question: how can Prince Harry, who continues to grieve his mother, still accept money from Netflix while the company exploits her memory?
The Netflix Dilemma for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have signed multi-million-dollar deals with Netflix, Spotify, and major publishers. While these partnerships gave them global platforms, critics argue that they are now facing a moral conflict. On one hand, Prince Harry has often condemned the media for its treatment of his mother; on the other, he benefits financially from the very company accused of exploiting her tragedy.
The Decline of the Sussex Brand
For years, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were seen as bold truth-tellers, speaking out against the Royal Family and sharing personal struggles. Their interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021 shook the monarchy, but also raised doubts about their credibility. The couple’s Spotify deal collapsed, with executives labeling them “grifters,” while Meghan Markle’s podcast failed to gain traction. Even Prince Harry’s memoir, Spare, left many questioning whether oversharing had damaged his reputation more than it helped.
Comparisons With William and Kate
While Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s brand struggles in both the UK and the US, Prince William and Princess Kate have strengthened their global image. By focusing on duty, dignity, and silence, they have avoided scandals and earned public respect. The contrast between the two couples could not be more stark, and experts warn that the Sussexes risk losing relevance altogether if their connection to the Royal Family fades.
Is This the End of Harry and Meghan’s Era?
Royal expert Paul Burrell believes that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s brand is unraveling. With Netflix controversies, failed projects, and dwindling popularity, their once-powerful image as modern disruptors is being replaced by perceptions of hypocrisy and overexposure. As Burrell pointed out, Meghan is “no Diana,” and audiences are starting to see through the polished image. Without authenticity and substance, the couple may struggle to maintain influence.
Conclusion: The Future of Harry, Meghan, and Netflix
The Netflix controversy surrounding Princess Diana’s final moments has reignited difficult questions for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Can they continue working with the streaming giant while condemning media intrusion? Will the Royal Family ever repair ties with the Sussexes? One thing is certain: the intersection of Netflix, Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and the Royal Family will remain a topic of global fascination, and the way they handle this chapter could determine the survival of their public brand.
