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Prince Harry’s Polo Documentary: The Nacho Figueras Show?
As the release date of Prince Harry's much-anticipated polo documentary draws near, it seems the spotlight is shifting more towards his friend, Argentine polo player Nacho Figueras, than on the Duke himself.
Sources close to the project have revealed that Netflix is growing increasingly dissatisfied with how the documentary is shaping up, referring to it internally as the “Nacho Show.”
This raises some serious questions about Harry's ability to create content that truly resonates with viewers, especially with his lucrative deal with the streaming giant nearing its end.
At the recent Verve Clicquot Polo Classic, Figueras expressed his excitement about working with Harry, calling it an “honor.” He claimed that this project belongs more to Harry than to him, suggesting that the Duke is leading the way.
However, this statement appears to be more of a public relations tactic than a genuine reflection of the documentary's focus.
Titled simply “Polo,” the documentary is set to premiere in December, but early indications suggest it heavily centers around Figueras, leaving Harry in the shadows.
Netflix executives had anticipated a glitzy showcase featuring Harry, who has been a controversial figure since stepping back from royal duties.
Instead, they are faced with a series that lacks the royal charm they were hoping for.
A Hollywood producer weighed in, stating that any reasonable viewer tuning into a show about polo by Prince Harry would expect him to take center stage.
The absence of his presence is disappointing for Netflix and raises concerns about the documentary's appeal.
The focus on Figueras is particularly puzzling considering polo's niche status; the allure of watching Harry play is what many viewers were looking forward to.
Without Harry's involvement, the series risks becoming what insiders have dubbed a “nothing burger.” The lack of royal representation in a documentary about a sport typically associated with the elite is perplexing.
As one source pointed out, for a show about a sport of kings, it's surprising that there's so little royalty involved.
This shift in focus not only frustrates Netflix but also underscores Harry's struggle to remain relevant in a media world that thrives on celebrity and drama.
His previous projects, including a much-discussed docuseries about his life, have not captured the public's imagination as he had hoped.
With the clock ticking down to the expiration of his Netflix deal, Harry faces increasing pressure to deliver something that can salvage both his reputation and financial support.
While Figueras is well-known within the polo community, he lacks the mainstream appeal necessary to attract a wider audience.
His charm may resonate with a select group, but it's unlikely to captivate the masses like Harry's royal background could.
Insiders have also noted that Figueras's limited English skills and crossover appeal make him an unlikely candidate to carry a major Netflix production.
The decision to pivot the documentary's focus towards Figueras raises questions about Harry's judgment and vision for his post-royal career.
Is he so eager to promote his friends that he has lost touch with what made him a compelling figure in the first place?
The backlash from Netflix indicates that Harry might need to rethink his strategy if he wants to stay relevant in the entertainment industry.
With the Netflix deal set to expire next year, the stakes have never been higher for Harry and Meghan Markle.
They're in dire need of a significant hit to validate their initial $100 million contract with the streaming service.
According to one insider, the clock is ticking, and the Sussexes must deliver a standout project.
Otherwise, this documentary could end up being just another missed opportunity.