Meghan Markle, who is celebrating her 44th birthday, is currently in negotiations with Netflix to extend her partnership beyond the expiring multi-year deal, according to royal experts. The Duchess of Sussex’s lifestyle brand, As Ever, and her lifestyle series, ‘With Love, Meghan,’ which was launched in February and became available for streaming in March, has sparked interest, but her reputation has taken a nosedive, leaving her future in doubt.
Experts suggest that the outcome of her contract with Netflix may significantly impact her future, especially with Prince Harry’s involvement. The Netflix deal, which the couple signed in 2020 shortly after they left the U.K., is expected to expire in September. While season two of ‘With Love, Meghan’ has been filmed and is scheduled to premiere in the fall, the possibility of a third season remains uncertain. The couple’s multi-year production agreement is reportedly not being extended, reflecting a broader shift in Netflix’s business strategy towards first-look agreements.
Despite the uncertainty, sources close to Netflix have indicated that the couple is in negotiations, and if they are in the top third of Netflix’s content, they are likely to receive a new deal. However, experts like Hilary Fordwich and Helena Chard have noted that Meghan’s declining popularity poses a challenge for her to secure new partnerships, as others may be hesitant to associate with her track record. Nonetheless, there are whispers of a first-rights agreement, which could provide her with a reputation boost and financial rewards. The future of Meghan and Harry’s brand, As Ever, remains uncertain as they navigate the complexities of their post-royal life.
Meanwhile, the couple’s debut docuseries, ‘Harry & Meghan,’ remains the most-watched debut on the platform, but their other programming has not fared as well. The potential for new seasons of ‘With Love, Meghan’ or other collaborations is still in play, as both parties negotiate the terms of their partnership. Experts predict that Meghan will continue to focus on her role as an entrepreneur, leveraging her lifestyle brand and product lines to build her empire. The future of her brand and her place in the public sphere remains a topic of speculation as she works to regain her footing in the media and entertainment industry.