Netflix crew refused to 'fake it' for Meghan Markle

Netflix Crew Refused to Whitewash 'Diva' Meghan Markle's Image

The end of Meghan Markle's collaboration with Netflix, focusing on her lifestyle brand 'As Ever' and production work, has led to a lot of speculation. Poor financial results, low viewership, and creative disputes are the main reasons behind the decision. Netflix expressed frustration over the brand's underperformance and more than $10 million in unsold inventory. Although the 'Harry & Meghan' documentary did well on the platform, the inability to deliver quality scripted content as part of a $100 million agreement led to the termination of the partnership. It has now been allegedly reported that the Netflix crew refused to put in a positive word for the Duchess because of her 'diva' whims.

No More 'Diva' Treatment

In a recent discussion, British journalist Neil Sean revealed that the Netflix team was tasked with improving Markle's public image, but faced significant challenges, particularly regarding their Netflix project, which ultimately fell through. Attempts to form a positive relationship with crew members were met with resistance, as they were wary of losing opportunities in Hollywood.

Crew Refused To 'White Wash' Image

Sean claimed that the crew was asked to make sentimental remarks and pretend to have a happy time working with Markle, "So sorry the show's ended. We'll really miss working with you, Marl, and all of this sort of stuff. What fun we had, you know," he stated, before adding, "Well, according to a source, and I have to say allegedly, but you know what I really mean, the thing is this came as a bit of a resounding no. You see, because Hollywood is going down the pan right now, and everybody who's working on anything wants it to be coming back. It's the deal, right? Because you just desperately need that work." He further continued, "So now to thank somebody for putting them out of work because they didn't listen to the directions of Ted Sarendors or anybody else that was offering Bon Mottz to get this stuff going is not in their favor."

Markle's 'Childish' Behavior?

It has been reported that the streaming giant was fed up with the Duchess's bizarre behavior. During discussions with Netflix, Markle allegedly displayed unpredictable behavior, such as "disappearing" for extended periods of time, which has been described as a "childish reaction." Her feedback techniques were considered "odd," according to a recent Variety article, and her absence from Zoom calls was frequently ascribed to being offended by remarks made. Markle and Prince Harry signed a contract with Netflix in 2020, but it was then reduced to a "first-look" pact, which was substantially different from the initial $99 million deal.

Netflix Just Lost Faith

The fallout has been termed mutual, yet the breakup is more complex due to Netflix's equity stake in her business. Brand expert Nick Eid highlighted that this split indicates Netflix's dwindling faith in Markle and her brand, similar to a previous failure with Spotify. While Markle has maintained a fan base, her projects have not firmly established her as a standalone figure. There's uncertainty about how she can leverage her past while redefining her future path.

Brand Image Fading Away

Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos recently unfollowed Meghan Markle and her lifestyle brand on Instagram, stirring speculation about Netflix's relationship with the Sussexes. Insiders suggest strained dynamics, including communication challenges and disagreements. With the lucrative deal now suspended, the Sussexes have lost a brand partner, and chances of recovering their Hollywood image remain speculative.