The News
**Netflix Rejects Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s Movie Project**
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's attempt to collaborate with Netflix for a feature-length film on royal life has hit a roadblock.
The couple's new movie project, titled “Karma,” was turned down by Netflix, as the streaming giant recently inked a multi-year deal with renowned filmmaker Mike Flanagan.
The inspiration behind the Sussexes' film venture reportedly stemmed from Netflix's announcement of developing a movie based on Prince Andrew's controversial BBC interview with journalist Emily Maitlis.
Sources close to the negotiation revealed that Netflix declined Meghan's proposal due to their exclusive partnership with Mike Flanagan and Trevor Macy.
This strategic move solidifies Flanagan and Macy's longstanding seven-year collaboration, which has yielded six successful movies under their Intrepid Pictures banner.
The exclusivity clause in their contract entails that Flanagan will solely produce content for Netflix, barring him from working with other platforms.
In contrast, Meghan and Harry operate independently through their production company, Archewell.
While Netflix does not directly produce content for the couple, they engage external production companies to pitch projects.
If approved, the team receives funding, shoots the film under Netflix's supervision, and delivers the final product for the platform's consideration.
Archewell retains responsibility for post-production, while Netflix handles the crucial marketing aspect.
Despite the setback with “Karma,” Netflix's decision-making process allows for potential future collaborations with successful production entities.
The estimated value of their partnership with Flanagan and Macy reportedly exceeds 200 million, highlighting the lucrative nature of such agreements.
While Meghan's involvement in the rejected project raised questions about profit-sharing, her position as the sixth lead in the film suggests minimal residuals.
The rejection of “Karma” comes amidst Netflix's shifting priorities, with a focus on more revealing content from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
Following the success of their docuseries released in late 2022, Netflix is steering away from documentary and children's programming, urging Harry and Meghan to delve deeper into their experiences as former working members of the royal family.
Additionally, Netflix's upcoming licensing plans include streaming multiple seasons of the popular series “Suits” in the United States, adding to their diverse content offerings.
As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, the dynamics between streaming platforms and content creators remain intricate.
While challenges may arise in securing partnerships and greenlighting projects, the industry's adaptability ensures ongoing opportunities for innovative storytelling.
Despite the setback faced by Meghan and Harry, their resilience and creative vision are poised to drive future endeavors and captivate audiences worldwide.