Netflix is set to renew its deal with Meghan Markle despite the mixed success of the Sussexes' projects since signing with the streaming giant.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's current agreement is due to expire this year, with negotiations expected on new terms. Industry insiders suggest that Netflix executives remain committed to working with Meghan despite some of the recent projects receiving lukewarm responses from both viewers and critics.
The renewal would represent a continued investment in the Sussex brand, which delivered record-breaking viewership with their self-titled documentary but has struggled to replicate that success with subsequent productions.
Sources close to Netflix reveal that CEO Ted Sarandos is a staunch supporter of the Duchess. "What people do not understand about the situation is that Ted Sarandos is a massive, massive fan of Meghan personally.
Netflix is set to renew its deal with Meghan Markle despite the mixed success of the Sussexes' projects since signing with the streaming giant.
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"He calls her 'the rock star'. There is no way that her deal does not get renewed," one well-placed source said.
The same insider added: "Ted is in the Meghan business and that is not about to change. He is all in."
A senior TV and film producer explained the business logic: "The renewal will be crucial in saving face all round, not least for Netflix.
"It means that the executive who made the hire doesn't look as if they made a mistake."
The Duchess of Sussex's most recent Netflix offering, "With Love, Meghan," has struggled to impress audiences and critics alike.
Netflix
The Duchess of Sussex's most recent Netflix offering, "With Love, Meghan," has struggled to impress audiences and critics alike.
Hollywood trade magazine Variety delivered a particularly scathing assessment, describing the lifestyle show as "a Montecito ego trip not worth taking" in a no-holds-barred critique.
The publication further stated: "The show plays out like a forced march, one in which Meghan's guests must, as the price of getting to share an afternoon in a made-for-TV kitchen with her, praise her first."
Variety added that the programme "is made with a great deal of love in the sense that the greatest love of all is the one that a person has for herself."
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The contrast in reception is stark when compared to the Sussexes' debut Netflix project.
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The contrast in reception is stark when compared to the Sussexes' debut Netflix project.
Their self-titled documentary "Harry & Meghan," released in December 2022, broke viewing records for the streaming service but subsequent projects have failed to generate similar interest or acclaim.
Despite the critical reception of the first series of "With Love, Meghan," production has already been completed on a second series.
Netflix has indicated that new episodes will be released later this year, suggesting the streaming giant's continued faith in the Duchess's appeal despite the mixed reception to her content.
