Netflix is encountering increasing difficulties as the production of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's polo documentary faces significant logistical challenges.
Originally slated for a November release, the documentary now seems unlikely to meet its deadline without substantial intervention. According to the Royal Rogue, while the polo documentary is progressing, the production and logistics are in disarray. Harry, who is central to the project, must travel to various countries to interview and engage with polo stars.
However, Meghan's reluctance to let him travel alone complicates matters significantly. This complexity is amplified as the couple's children are not accompanying them, though they could, given their young age. Meghan's involvement is seen as exacerbating an already complex situation.
The documentary's release depends on the coordination and prioritization of various production companies, many of which are handling multiple projects, including those under AR Productions. AR Productions is already facing its own set of issues, notably the suspension of their cooking show. The CEO is reportedly furious, considering the couple's deal one of the worst in the company's history. In a bid to salvage the situation, Netflix may release a teaser to gauge public interest using content from the pilot episode.
The entertainment industry is currently at a crossroads, making it a challenging time for the Sussexes to enter the production arena. Unlike industry giants like Tyler Perry, who can manage tight budgets and take calculated risks, Harry and Meghan lack the necessary clout and financial support. Additionally, their network of allies has significantly decreased over the past three years for various reasons. One of the most criticized decisions was accepting the Pat Tillman Award, heavily influenced by Serena Williams to promote a documentary. This decision backfired, casting Serena's project as a vanity endeavor, given her other business commitments. Accepting the award at Serena's insistence has proven to be a strategic misstep.
As Meghan's birthday approaches, there is speculation that new photos of their children might be released, a tactic often used to generate media attention. Meghan's diminishing network of connections leaves Harry's better affiliations as their remaining support system. The core issue appears to be Meghan's pervasive influence over Harry's projects. Observations suggest Harry enjoys his endeavors more when Meghan is not involved. Many believe that for Harry to succeed, he needs to distance himself from Meghan's overbearing presence.
The polo documentary, primarily aimed at a niche audience, risks being overshadowed by Meghan's desire to be the focal point. Examples of this dynamic include her prominent role during the Invictus Games, where her presence often overshadowed the event itself. Meghan's tendency to make every project about her detracts from Harry's efforts to establish his own path. Timing has consistently been a challenge for the couple's ventures, with every move seeming poorly timed and undermining their objectives. A prime example is the current predicament: instead of allowing Harry to focus on the polo documentary, Meghan's involvement complicates production. Similarly, her cooking show remains stalled, contributing to their precarious contractual obligations.
Netflix's partnership with Harry and Meghan faces numerous challenges, from production delays to strategic missteps. Harry's polo documentary, already limited in audience appeal, is further hindered by Meghan's insistence on being involved in every aspect.
