In the intricate workings of Archewell, the production company owned by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, a recent departure has sent shockwaves through the California-based organization.
Bennett LaVine, the key figure behind the success of the couple's Netflix series, has bid farewell to the company, marking another exit from the Sussexes' venture. LaVine, considered a rising star in the industry, is now the 17th person to depart from the Sussexes' service since their marriage in 2018, and the eighth since their relocation to California.
The departure of Archewell TV executive Bennett LaVine comes at a critical juncture for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Amidst speculation about the fate of their £80 million deal with Netflix, LaVine's move to a rival U.S. company is seen as a significant blow to the couple. This development follows the exit of Oscar-winning producer Ben Browning, who oversaw the couple's record-breaking Netflix series and left Archewell last year.
The uncertainty surrounding Archewell deepens with the departure of key personnel. Bennett LaVine, who played a pivotal role in the success of the Netflix series, confirmed his move to a U.S. rival on social media, leaving Archewell facing challenges in maintaining its momentum. The departure of LaVine, coupled with the earlier exit of Ben Browning, raises questions about the stability of the Sussexes' production company.
As the Sussexes navigate through the aftermath of their six-part Netflix documentary, which received mixed reviews, the departure of Bennett LaVine further underscores the challenges faced by Archewell. Despite promises of exciting projects and a positive outlook, the couple finds themselves grappling with the loss of key personnel. The departure also coincides with rumors surrounding the renewal of their Netflix deal, as the streaming giant allegedly considers parting ways with the royal couple.
In the wake of Bennett LaVine's departure, Archewell is left to reevaluate its strategies and partnerships. The couple's attempt to project a positive image through their documentary seems to have faced setbacks, with critics labeling it a one-sided promotion. The challenges are further exacerbated by the departure of other key figures, including the senior vice president of scripted television and the head of audio at Archewell.
Adding to the complexities, recent reports suggest that Netflix might not renew its deal with Archewell, echoing the pattern seen with Spotify ending their podcast deal after one series. The couple's trip to Jamaica, where they were guests at a film premiere hosted by Paramount Pictures, raises questions about their future collaborations. As the Sussexes face a tough time securing major new deals in the U.S., their image in American media has shifted from being champions to subjects of satire and criticism.
The challenges for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle extend beyond their professional endeavors, as evidenced by the dwindling support and recent controversies. Despite signing with William Morris Endeavor (WME) and appearing at prestigious events like Variety's Power of Women gala, where exciting new projects were teased, the couple is facing uncertainties about their future collaborations and deals.
In a surprising turn of events, Archewell Productions has appointed Tracy Ryerson, a former model and reality star, as the head of scripted content. Rumors also swirl about the Sussexes pitching a feminist-focused prequel to Charles Dickens' "Great Expectations" to Netflix. Meanwhile, they have recruited the marketing director from an exclusive hotel near their mansion, indicating strategic moves to bolster their team amid ongoing challenges.
The revolving door at Archewell continues, with personnel changes becoming a recurring theme. The departure of Bennett LaVine adds to the list of 17 individuals who have left the Sussexes' service since their marriage in 2018. The challenges faced by Archewell also extend to the uncertainty surrounding their major deals, hinting at a critical juncture for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's professional ventures.
As the saga unfolds, the dynamics at Archewell reflect a shifting landscape for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. From the departure of key executives to uncertainties surrounding major deals, the couple finds themselves at a crossroads. The challenges faced by Archewell underscore the complexity of balancing public expectations, professional ventures, and personal image in the ever-evolving world of the Sussexes.
