A Netflix co-CEO has dodged a question on Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s future.
Ted Sarandos has broken his silence on the Sussexes' future with the streaming giant following the mixed reception to her lifestyle series.
"With Love, Meghan" was released earlier this month to brutal reviews from critics and underwhelming ratings.
Despite this, the eight-part series has been renewed for a second season, with Netflix standing firmly behind the Duchess of Sussex.
Netflix CEO dodges question on Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s future
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In terms of a deal renewal with the streaming platform, Sarandos said: "I don't want to comment on anyone's renewals.
"In general, the ones that we've had are bespoke and rationalised around output. I think of them as ‘show-verall’ deals. We outline what we’re going to do together over the next five years and package it in a deal."
Speaking to Variety, Sarandos defended Meghan, saying she has been "underestimated" by many.
He also revealed that Netflix has a stake in her lifestyle business As Ever, which sells various products featured in the show.
Ted Sarandos pictured at the Baftas in 2023
PA
According to data gathered by Samba TV, "With Love, Meghan" was watched by 526,000 households in the first five days since its release on March 4.
By comparison, "Harry & Meghan" drew in 2.1 million households in approximately the same timeframe - making it four times more successful.
The lifestyle series appears to have resonated most with viewers aged between 45 to 54, attracting more people from this demographic than any other age group.
"I think Meghan is underestimated in terms of her influence on culture," Sarandos told the outlet.
Ted Sarandos pictured at the Oscars earlier this month
Reuters
"When we dropped the trailer for the 'Harry & Meghan' doc series [in 2022], everything on-screen was dissected in the press for days."
He pointed to specific examples of the Duchess of Sussex's cultural impact.
"The shoes she was wearing sold out all over the world. The Hermès blanket that was on the chair behind her sold out everywhere in the world."
Sarandos expressed confidence in the Duchess's appeal despite criticism: "People are fascinated with Meghan Markle. She and Harry are overly dismissed."
Meghan Markle has been warned about the ramifications should her new Netflix show flopNetflix
Regarding Netflix's business relationship with Meghan, Sarandos explained: "We're a passive partner in Meghan's company, and it's a big discovery model for us right now."
This partnership extends beyond just streaming content. Netflix has already announced plans to set aside space in two of their brand-new stores for Markle's As Ever products.
The first of these stands will open in major American retail locations - the King of Prussia Mall in Philadelphia and the Dallas Galleria.
While details of products such as jam and pancake mix have emerged, the full range and price points have not yet been revealed.
