Netflix Executive Speaks Out on Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Report and Questions Its Accuracy

Netflix executive Bela Bajaria recently dismissed rumors regarding a supposed rift between the streaming giant and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. During the “Next on Netflix” event held on March 18, Bajaria addressed reports suggesting that the relationship had become strained due to the couple’s outside media ventures.

The executive specifically pushed back against claims that Netflix was blindsided by the couple’s 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey or the publication of Prince Harry’s memoir. “Don’t believe whatever you read,” Bajaria told the audience while discussing the narrative surrounding their partnership. “Maybe we should all do a little fact-checking.”

She clarified that the professional bond between the streamer and Archewell Productions remains active and productive. Bajaria emphasized that there are multiple projects currently being crafted for the platform’s subscribers.

“We have movies in development with them,” she confirmed, highlighting the ongoing nature of their creative collaboration. The Chief Content Officer also reflected on the success of their previous work together, specifically their record-breaking docuseries.

“Had an amazing documentary with them,” she noted, referring to the six-part series that explored the couple’s transition away from royal duties. That project remains one of the most-watched documentary debuts in the history of the platform.

Bajaria explained that while Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, are frequently in the headlines, their deal is handled like any other high-level Hollywood agreement. “Deals come and go all the time,” she remarked regarding the industry’s standard operating procedures. “There are deals that are deals we don’t renew.”

She suggested that the intense public interest in this specific partnership often creates a juicy story where one might not actually exist. Both Netflix and representatives for the Sussexes have formally labeled the reports of a dispute as categorically false.

A spokesperson for the couple reiterated that the streaming service was fully aware of all their media engagements, including the Winfrey interview. They noted that legal teams for both parties were consistently involved in overseeing the natural evolution of their multi-year contract.

“Netflix and Archewell had legal counsel involved to oversee the evolution of the deal, as is common practice for any deal changes in Hollywood,” the representative stated. Shortly before these reports, Meghan announced that her lifestyle brand, As ever, was ending its specific partnership with Netflix.

The brand will now proceed independently to allow for more rapid and specialized growth. “As ever is now ready to stand on its own,” a spokesperson for the brand shared regarding the transition.

Netflix also issued a supportive statement regarding the brand’s independence, noting it was always the intended path for the business. “We look forward to celebrating how she continues to bring joy to households around the world,” a company spokesperson added.

Meghan is currently expanding her portfolio beyond media production and into the lifestyle and wellness space. Her brand, As ever, is expected to offer a curated selection of home goods and organic lifestyle products. She also recently launched a new podcast deal with Lemonada Media.

Have something to add? Share your thoughts in the comments.