Meghan, Harry's Netflix deal could produce ‘stuff of nightmares’ for Royal Family

The former royals' mega deal with the streaming giant has left royal insiders nervous, especially after 'The Crown'

In September, Netflix announced it had signed an agreement with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry to produce films, documentaries and children’s shows. However royal insiders are said to be nervous about what the couple could end up producing, reported The Sunday Times.

Provided the criticism the royals received after the streaming of the latest season of The Crown, concerns have arose about what the former Duke and Duchess could end up producing under pressure of “royal-themed programming”.

“Neither party has publicly talked money, but the deal is reported to be worth about £75m,” the outlet said. “For that kind of money, Harry and Meghan might be expected to include royal revelations in the highbrow, uplifting content they have promised.

So far, a nature documentary and an animated series to empower women are in the pipeline, “but to what extent they may be pressured to provide royal-themed programming remains the stuff of nightmares in London,” it continued.

Harry and Meghan’s decision to step down as senior royals had raised several questions back in January. But the couple said they would aim to become “financially independent” and split their time between North America and Britain.

The duo completed its final royal engagement in March before moving to North America altogether. After a brief stay in Canada they moved to Meghan’s home state of California shortly before it went into coronavirus lockdown.

Announcing their Netflix deal in September, they said, “Our lives, both independent of each other and as a couple, have allowed us to understand the power of the human spirit, of courage, resilience and the need for connection.

“Through our work with diverse communities and their environments, to shining a light on people and causes around the world, our focus will be on creating content that informs but also gives hope. As new parents, making inspirational family programming is also important to us, as is powerful storytelling through a truthful and relatable lens.”

When the Netflix deal was announced Ted Sarandos, the company’s chief executive said, “Harry and Meghan have inspired millions of people all around the world with their authenticity, optimism and leadership. We’re incredibly proud they have chosen Netflix as their creative home – and are excited about telling stories with them that can help build resilience and increase understanding for audiences everywhere.”

The agreement came under increased scrutiny when the fourth series of The Crown, the hit Netflix show focused on The Queen, was released.

This caused controversy over its portrayal of the relationship between Prince Charles and Princess Diana. In response both Charles Spencer, Diana’s brother, and a Government minister suggested each episode should begin with disclaimer that the show is fictional.   

Harry has also been working on a documentary series with Oprah Winfrey on mental health for Apple TV+. A Disney nature documentary, voiced by Meghan, was released in March.

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