Netflix CEO discusses Meghan Markle’s future on platform

Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos recently shared insights on the streaming service’s partnership with Meghan Markle. The Duchess of Sussex recently released her lifestyle and cooking show, “With Love, Meghan,” on Netflix, and the platform has also invested in her lifestyle brand, As Ever.

Sarandos mentioned in an interview that Netflix is a passive partner in Meghan’s company and sees it as a significant discovery model for the streaming giant. He highlighted Meghan’s cultural influence, citing examples such as the worldwide sales of products she has been associated with and the public’s fascination with her and Prince Harry.

When asked about Netflix’s long-term involvement with Meghan and Harry’s brand, Sarandos expressed that it goes beyond a mere marketing ploy and contributes to the company’s branding and expressions of fandom. A source close to production confirmed Netflix’s commitment to the couple, emphasizing Sarandos’ support for them.

Meghan and Harry signed a $100 million deal with Netflix in 2020, leading to the launch of As Ever, a collection of home essentials curated by Meghan. The collection features products personally developed by Meghan over the past year, focusing on her experience in home cooking and entertaining. As Ever will sell these products online and through Netflix’s pop-up stores.

The first season of “With Love, Meghan” has been renewed for a Season 2 and has already completed production, with famous guests like Mindy Kaling and Abigail Spencer making appearances. Despite mixed reviews for the show, it garnered 526,000 US households in its initial days on the platform.

Data from analytics firms revealed viewership numbers for “With Love, Meghan,” with comparisons to the couple’s previous docuseries. While the show did not reach the same heights as their previous series, it still received global recognition and significant viewership.

Netflix continues to see promise in its partnership with Meghan and Harry, with plans for future collaborations and projects reflecting the couple’s brand and the company’s commitment to maintaining a strong working relationship.