Royal expert warns of financial pressure as Sussexes prepare for life beyond $100M deal
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are heading toward an uncertain future as their $100 million Netflix deal approaches its end—and royal expert Jennie Bond suggests the adjustment could be especially challenging for Harry.
Signed in 2020, the five-year deal brought the couple into the streaming spotlight, with their debut documentary Harry & Meghan drawing massive attention. However, subsequent projects struggled to match that initial impact, generating lukewarm reviews and limited viewership.
Despite the impressive paycheck, Bond cautions that the deal won't guarantee long-term financial security. “For most people, that sort of money would set them up for life,” she said. "But Montecito is luxurious and expensive. So they will have to find other streams of income."
Bond believes Meghan may be better prepared to pivot. “She has every chance of making a lot of money as an influencer,” she said, adding that Harry seems content with her taking the lead as the public face of their ventures.
Netflix's decision not to renew the contract reportedly stems from a shift in the platform's business strategy, rather than any fallout with the Sussexes. Insiders describe the parting as amicable, with both sides agreeing the collaboration had “run its course.” That said, Netflix retains the right of first refusal on any future projects the couple may propose.
While the formal agreement may be ending, it doesn't mean the relationship is over. Meghan's lifestyle brand As Ever continues its partnership with Netflix through consumer product initiatives, and Season 2 of With Love, Meghan is still scheduled for release later this year.
Even so, the couple's media future is now less certain. Without the security of a major streaming deal, both Harry and Meghan will need to explore new paths to sustain their lifestyle and brand. And while Meghan appears poised for success in the influencer space, Harry may find the next chapter of his post-royal life more difficult to navigate.
