Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos on betting on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle: We are a passive …
Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos recently weighed in on the controversy surrounding Meghan Markle and her new lifestyle series, With Love, Meghan. Speaking to Variety, Sarandos discussed Netflix’s role in the relaunch of the Duchess of Sussex’s company, As Ever. He said, “We’re a passive partner in Meghan’s company. Sarandos, who has been Netflix CEO described the collaboration as a “big discovery model” for Netflix, highlighting the company’s evolving approach.
When asked why he chose to invest in Meghan, Sarandos pointed to her underestimated cultural influence. “When we released the trailer for the Harry & Meghan docuseries [in 2022], every detail was picked apart in the press for days,” he said. He noted how items like the shoes Meghan wore and the Hermès blanket in the background sold out globally, underscoring her impact. “People are fascinated with Meghan Markle,” he added. “She and Harry are overly dismissed.”
Netflix’s $100 million partnership with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
The partnership between Netflix and the Sussexes, valued at $100 million and signed five years ago, has already yielded projects like the Harry & Meghan docuseries, Polo, and Heart of Invictus. Meghan’s latest show, recently renewed for a second season, features her sharing hosting and cooking insights from her Montecito, California kitchen. Guests include high-profile names like Mindy Kaling from The Office, Abigail Spencer from Suits, and renowned chefs Alice Waters and Roy Choi.
Despite debuting in Netflix’s global top 10, With Love, Meghan has faced significant criticism from viewers, adding fuel to the ongoing debate about Meghan and her latest endeavor.
