The News
Netflix Hits Pause on Harry and Meghan’s Docu-Series Amid Crown Controversy
In a surprising turn of events, Netflix has decided to delay the highly anticipated docu-series featuring Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Initially slated for release later this year, the project now finds itself in limbo, primarily due to the backlash surrounding the upcoming season of The Crown.
This new season is set to premiere on November 9th and has already stirred controversy with its portrayal of key historical figures.
Reports indicate that the fifth season of The Crown includes a contentious storyline involving King Charles and John Major, the former Prime Minister of the UK.
The plot, which unfolds in 1991, revolves around a real-life newspaper poll questioning whether Queen Elizabeth II should abdicate in favor of her son, Charles.
In the series, Charles, played by Dominic West, appears to support the idea of his mother stepping down, leading to a conversation with Major that Major himself has vehemently denied ever took place.
The reaction from Netflix has been one of concern.
Insiders reveal that the streaming giant is feeling the heat and has opted to postpone Harry and Meghan's documentary as a precautionary measure.
The negative feedback regarding The Crown has left them rattled, prompting this unexpected decision.
The sensitivity surrounding the new season is further heightened by the recent passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
Following her death, Netflix has been on edge about how to handle the portrayal of significant events, particularly the tragic death of Princess Diana.
While the company has assured viewers that they won't depict the fatal car crash in detail, the mere suggestion of revisiting Diana's final moments has raised eyebrows.
One source close to the production expressed discomfort with revisiting such painful memories.
As the series gets closer to contemporary events, striking a balance between dramatization and sensitivity becomes increasingly challenging.
Crew members are reportedly pushing back against certain narratives, feeling that some portrayals may cross an ethical line.
Critics have not held back in their condemnation of the series.
William Shawcross, the official biographer of the Queen Mother, described the show as “odious” and intentionally hurtful.
He highlighted the emotional toll it could take on King Charles, who is still grieving the loss of his mother while facing the prospect of being depicted as a power-hungry usurper.
Sarah Vine, an editor at the Daily Mail, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the disrespectful timing of the series' release.
She criticized the portrayal of Charles as cruel, suggesting that the royal family, often seen as public figures, still deserve respect and dignity in their personal tragedies.
Despite the turmoil surrounding The Crown, reports suggest that Harry and Meghan's docuseries is still on track for a December release.
An industry insider confirmed that, to their knowledge, the project remains unaffected by the recent controversies and is moving forward as planned.
This situation raises intriguing questions about Harry's stance on the matter.
Given his vocal criticism of media exploitation, one might expect him to distance himself from a project that could further harm his family's reputation.
Yet, it seems that the couple is committed to sharing their narrative, regardless of the surrounding chaos.
As the drama unfolds, it's clear that the intersection of entertainment and royal history is fraught with tension.