Meghan Markle’s rumored cooking show for Netflix is facing an uncertain future amid growing concerns about the value the Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry bring to the streaming platform.
Despite their high-profile $100 million deal with Netflix, doubts about their content delivery are putting their long-term collaboration at risk.
Uncertainty Over the Future of Meghan Markle’s Cooking Show
The couple’s recent five-part documentary on polo—a sport often associated with privilege—has left viewers unimpressed and critics baffled.
Reviews have labeled it “tedious” and “unintentionally hilarious,” with some highlighting the lack of drama or relatability. Even Netflix seemed to lack confidence in the project, promoting it only with a brief statement from Harry.
For nearly a year, rumors have circulated about Meghan developing a cooking show that celebrates cooking, gardening, and friendship.
Set to reflect her luxury brand ethos (American Rivera Orchard), the series was reportedly in production at a mansion near the couple’s Montecito home under the direction of Michael Steed, known for his work with the late Anthony Bourdain.
Yet, there has been little progress or updates, leaving the project in limbo.
A Netflix insider suggested the show might never come to fruition, describing the couple’s output as underwhelming, according to the MailOnline.
Another executive called the cooking show a “make-or-break moment” for their aspirations in the entertainment industry, emphasizing that it would need to be a massive hit to turn their fortunes around.
Adding to the tension, sources claim that Netflix is “exhausted” by the effort required to work with the Sussexes, with one insider bluntly stating that “the deliverable does not seem to be worth it.”
There is growing speculation that the couple’s deal, set to expire in August 2025, may not be renewed.
The Sussexes’ earlier projects have also faced mixed receptions. Her reality show, Harry & Meghan, was a hit, but it was followed by two lesser-known documentaries – one on the Invictus Games and another on leadership – neither of which left a lasting impact.
Critics have noted that the couple’s attempts at creating compelling content have yet to live up to the high expectations set by their lucrative deal.
Although Netflix has previously claimed the Sussexes have multiple projects in development under their Archewell Productions banner, including a film and other unscripted content, the future of their partnership remains unclear.
For Meghan and Harry, the stakes are high. As the August deadline for their Netflix deal looms, their ability to deliver engaging and relatable content may determine whether they can secure a place in the competitive world of streaming entertainment.