Harry and Meghan's $100 million Netflix contract is at risk following the poor performance of 'Polo,' which could spell trouble for them.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are stepping into the new year facing more financial challenges than ever, and there are concerns that their Netflix deal might be in jeopardy following their latest project, which has raised significant red flags, according to a source.
Their recent collaboration with the streaming giant, a five-part series titled Polo, has been criticized by The Guardian as an “unintentionally hilarious” take on “the world’s stupidest sport,” failing to resonate with a large audience. With critics largely panning the series, the insider reveals that the couple’s $100 million deal could be at risk if they don’t find a way to connect with viewers more authentically. Although they remain optimistic that the show will gain traction and prove the naysayers wrong, this latest misstep, like many of their post-royal projects, has turned into a “nightmare.”
“They tried so hard to give the network what they wanted, and that was more of a reality show feel than they initially envisioned, but they got on board and came up with a show that they feel hits that target but also has a lot of heart and depth,” the source explains, adding that unfortunately, “it doesn’t really matter what they think, it’s what Netflix bosses think.”
“So, to hear these horrible rumors coming out that their deal might be at risk because the network isn’t happy is incredibly upsetting.”
Brand expert Nick Ede corroborated the sentiment, telling DailyMail that this misstep could end up being the “nail in the coffin” for the Sussexes’ Netflix partnership, which they signed in 2020.
“The new polo documentary hasn’t received good reviews, and this is another foray into producing from Meghan and Harry [that hasn’t worked out],” he told the publication.
Meghan's upcoming project, focused on cooking and wellness, is more crucial than ever. It really needs to succeed since "their future and income heavily rely on the completion of this deal."
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There are even rumors suggesting that it might not succeed, as various productions have disappointed fans. This setback has really affected them, and Megan is understandably quite worried. Beyond the audience's reactions, other producers and creators have expressed frustration over the former royals' entry into television.
Critics have suggested that even within the television industry, many view their largely unremarkable Netflix shows as taking away opportunities from seasoned creators and talent who have genuinely strong concepts. With numerous property acquisitions in recent years, a lavish lifestyle, and several new business initiatives launched, the first source indicates that the Sussexes are currently facing their highest expenses ever, especially due to significant investments in the relaunch of her lifestyle brand. “They have substantial expenses and ambitious plans for further expansion, so losing their Netflix deal would be a huge blow.”
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle face growing financial difficulties as their Netflix deal is jeopardized by the poor reception of their recent project, Polo. With high expenses and a crucial upcoming cooking and wellness show, their future financial success depends heavily on the success of this new venture.