The Sussexes unveil multi-year deal, holiday special, and African documentary amid industry skepticism
Montecito, CA – In a strategic rebuke to recent cancellation rumors, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have secured an expanded Netflix partnership through their Archewell Productions, announcing a slate of new projects that solidifies their transition from royals to Hollywood power players. The multi-year first-look deal, revealed August 11, includes a holiday special, African documentary series, and continued development of their buzzed-about romantic drama adaptation.
The Deal Breakdown: Beyond the $100 Million
The renewed Netflix partnership shifts from their initial 2020 mega-contract to a more sustainable first-look arrangement – the same model used by the Obamas’ Higher Ground. Key components:
✔ “With Love, Meghan” Season 2 (Premiering August 2025)
✔ Holiday Special (December 2025 featuring Chrissy Teigen & José Andrés)
✔ “Masaka Kids” Documentary (Ugandan orphanage story)
✔ “Meet Me at the Lake” Feature Film (Romantic drama adaptation)
“We’re creating content that resonates globally while celebrating our shared vision,” Meghan stated, emphasizing their Archewell Productions team’s creative independence.
The As Ever Brand: Lifestyle Meets Streaming
Netflix’s unprecedented involvement in Meghan’s As Ever lifestyle brand raises eyebrows:
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Products tied to show segments consistently sell out
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Holiday special will feature DIY crafts and recipes
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Marks first streaming platform/consumer goods crossover
Industry analysts note the risky gambit: “They’re betting audiences will blur the line between content and commerce,” said Bloomberg media reporter Lucas Shaw.
Documentary Diplomacy: The Africa Play
“Masaka Kids: A Rhythm Within” represents Harry’s continued Africa advocacy:
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Explores HIV/AIDS orphanage in Uganda
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Follows viral dancing kids phenomenon
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Mirrors success of “Harry & Meghan” docu-series (Netflix’s most-watched documentary debut)
The project counters criticism of the couple being “out of touch” by spotlighting global issues.
Analysis: Why This Deal Matters
1. Career Reinvention Complete
From “Harry & Meghan” to polo documentaries, their Netflix partnership has successfully transitioned them from royal refugees to legitimate producers.
2. The Obama Blueprint
Adopting Higher Ground’s first-look model shows business savvy amid streaming cutbacks.
3. Strategic Nostalgia
Holiday specials and lifestyle content leverage Meghan’s “Suits” fanbase while avoiding divisive royal commentary.
4. Global vs. Royal Identity
African projects and romantic films distance them from UK controversies while maintaining international appeal.
