As their lucrative Netflix deal approaches its expiration next month, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have received harsh feedback about their content strategy. Royal expert Lydia Alty has accused the Duke and Duchess of Sussex of using their media projects primarily for “self-promotion,” a sentiment that may significantly affect their future dealings with the streaming giant.
In an interview with The Express, Alty expressed concern that the couple’s content continues to center largely around their personal story and grievances, leaving little room for broader, more substantive themes. “The broader issue is that nearly everything they produce continues to centre around themselves — their story, their grievances, their brand. Audiences are growing weary of it,” Alty said.
The expert went on to note that public interest in the couple’s Netflix projects appears to be diminishing, with many viewers now seeking content that offers more than just personal narratives. “Viewers are seeking content that inspires, educates, or serves a greater purpose — not just a polished exercise in personal branding,” Alty explained.
The criticism comes amidst reports that Netflix is unlikely to renew the couple’s $100-million, five-year contract, which is set to expire in September 2025. According to sources, the streaming service is reevaluating its relationship with the Sussexes, with some insiders speculating that the public’s waning interest in the couple’s projects might be a contributing factor.
“Public interest in the ‘Harry and Meghan show’ is clearly waning, and people are increasingly looking for substance over self-promotion,” Alty added, further questioning the longevity of the couple’s media projects if they continue to focus primarily on their own experiences.
While the couple’s projects, such as their Netflix series Harry & Meghan, have garnered attention, the public’s appetite for content solely focused on their personal lives may be dwindling. The future of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s media ventures could hinge on their ability to diversify their content and offer something beyond their own brand.
With the expiration date of their Netflix contract fast approaching, the couple will likely have to consider whether their current approach is sustainable or if they need to evolve their content strategy moving forward.