It seems the second half of 2023 was not a stellar time for Netflix’s royal-adjacent content. The viewing figures are in, and the results are, well, less than impressive. Let’s start with “Heart of Invictus,” the documentary focused on Prince Harry’s Invictus Games. You’d think a project so close to the duke’s heart would draw a sizable audience, but the numbers tell a different story – a mere 300,000 views. Hardly the blockbuster one might expect. And what about the highly anticipated Harry and Meghan documentary? While it fared better, pulling in 1.9 million views, that’s hardly a resounding success. Disappointing, to say the least. Then there’s the mysterious “Meet Me at the Lake Megan” project. With the lackluster performance of the other titles, one has to wonder – is this even a real thing? And if so, will Netflix bother to produce it? But the real flop of the bunch has to be “Live to Lead.” A mere 100,000 views? Ouch. That’s got to sting. Clearly, the audience just isn’t interested. The first half of the year wasn’t much better. It seems the public just isn’t that invested in the Sussexes’ various endeavors. And that’s a problem, considering their job is to bring in viewers. Heart of Invictus only managed 300,000 views – you’d think a documentary focused on veterans would attract more interest, but apparently not. So what’s next for this struggling royal couple? According to reports, King Charles III is hoping their Netflix deal will be renewed, if only to avoid further exposs of royal life. But with the Oprah interview, the Netflix doc, and Harry’s memoir all contributing to a decline in the royal family’s popularity, it remains to be seen if Netflix will be willing to continue their partnership. The trust issue is a big one, too. After all the intimate family details shared, it’s no surprise that Charles and William no longer fully trust Harry and Meghan. And with the family drama showing no signs of resolution, the royals must be hoping the Sussexes will stay put at Netflix, lest more dirty laundry be aired. It’s a delicate situation all around. The numbers don’t lie – the public just isn’t that interested in what the Sussexes are putting out. Netflix has to be wondering if this partnership is worth the trouble. And the royals? They’re likely holding their breath, hoping the deal will be renewed, if only to keep a lid on things.

• 1 June 2024
• Williams Brown