Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Netflix Deal Faces Expiration Amid Criticism

In a significant development for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, reports have surfaced indicating that their lucrative five-year deal with Netflix, valued at £78 million ($100 million), is unlikely to be renewed upon its expiration in September 2025. This news has emerged as an insider reportedly described the couple as 'no longer rated' by Hollywood, suggesting a diminishing interest in their projects.

Since stepping back from their roles within the British royal family in 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have sought to establish a new identity in the United States, marked by their Netflix partnership which initially promised to reshape their public personas. The production of the 2022 docuseries 'Harry and Meghan' garnered attention but failed to sustain the momentum as subsequent projects, such as the anticipated series 'Polo,' did not resonate with audiences. As a result, insiders claim that 'people are bored' with the couple, leading to speculation about their future in entertainment and media.

According to Matthew Johnson, a media analyst at the University of Southern California, the decline in engagement metrics for their Netflix content reflects a broader trend in audience fatigue with celebrity-driven narratives. 'The initial intrigue surrounding Harry and Meghan has waned, and the streaming landscape is highly competitive,' he stated in a recent interview published in the Journal of Media Studies in April 2025.

The couple's transition to independent financial ventures was underscored by their signing of the Netflix deal, which was seen as a crucial step towards financial autonomy. However, their recent ventures have prompted criticism regarding their ability to maintain viewer interest. Mark Thompson, a former executive at BBC and current CEO of The New York Times Company, noted, 'The entertainment industry thrives on fresh narratives and authentic engagement. When audiences perceive a disconnect or repetitiveness, they tend to disengage.'

The couple has reportedly diversified their income streams beyond Netflix, including podcasting, public speaking engagements, and potential literary ventures. Meghan Markle, in particular, has been rumored to consider writing a memoir, with speculation that publishing offers have already been made. An industry insider revealed that major publishing houses have expressed interest, with offers in the millions for a tell-all book that could capture the couple's experiences since leaving royal life.

Despite these developments, the couple has remained silent on the impending expiration of their Netflix deal, leading to further speculation about their next steps. As the royal family continues to adapt to the changing dynamics of public interest and media consumption, the implications of Harry and Meghan's fading prominence in Hollywood may reflect broader societal attitudes towards celebrity culture and the complexities of their royal heritage.

As the end of their Netflix partnership approaches, questions remain about the couple's future trajectory in the entertainment industry and their ability to reconnect with audiences. Industry experts are closely watching how this situation unfolds, particularly in light of the rapidly evolving media landscape and shifting public perceptions. The outcome may not only impact Harry and Meghan's professional lives but also their personal narratives as they navigate their identities outside of royal expectations.