In February, Tyler Perry halted an $800 million studio expansion due to advancements in AI.
Despite this pause, Perry has continued to make significant business moves. Recently, he signed a multi-million dollar, multi-year deal with BET Media Group and partnered with Asylum Entertainment. Under this new deal, BET Media Group will oversee eight of Perry's shows with the possibility of renewal.
Additionally, Perry has expanded his agreement with Netflix to produce several TV series. These ventures demonstrate Perry's strong commitment to the entertainment industry. However, the suspension of the $800 million studio expansion is noteworthy, hinting at either financial caution or a strategic shift in response to the evolving technological landscape.
This brings us to Meghan Markle, who has also been making strides in the entertainment industry. Recently, Netflix rented a house in Montecito for filming a new cooking show. Rumors spread that Markle initially reached out to Perry, hoping to use his facilities for free to reduce production costs and impress Netflix by cutting expenses. However, Perry, currently navigating financial challenges and industry competition, declined the request, stating that Netflix would need to pay if they wanted to use his facilities. This reportedly upset Markle.
Markle is developing a new Netflix show focused on cooking, gardening, entertainment, and friendship. Experts suggest that her lavish Montecito lifestyle might not resonate well with viewers. PR guru Lynn Carratt noted that with the launch of two Netflix documentaries, audiences will see different sides of the couple. Carratt mentioned that the series would showcase a softer side of Markle as it celebrates cooking and entertaining friends. She further remarked that the Duchess has transitioned from political ambitions to making jam, offering viewers an insight into her passions.
In addition to her work with Netflix, Markle has launched a new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, and sent strawberry preserves to 50 A-listers and friends. However, there is concern that the documentary might portray an overly perfect life, which could be less relatable to the public.
While Markle focuses on her series, Prince Harry is set to executive produce a documentary about polo. Experts believe this project could provide Harry with an opportunity to showcase his true self, given his long history with the sport. Before the controversies surrounding his exit from royal duties, Harry was well-loved by the British public. It is hoped that this documentary will allow his personality to shine through.
Another royal expert suggests that Harry and Markle's recent trip to Nigeria had benefits beyond promoting charitable causes, such as the Invictus Games and mental health initiatives of the GNCO Foundation. During their three-day visit, they took a trip to a polo field in Lagos, hinting at their next Netflix project, a show about professional polo players. Former BBC royal correspondent Michael Cole emphasized the significance of this visit for Netflix, stating on GB News that the trip provided high-quality material for Netflix's offerings. He highlighted the importance of their $100 million contract with Netflix and the necessity of engaging with the world beyond their California home to produce compelling content.
