Netflix is facing increasing challenges as the production of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's polo documentary encounters significant logistical issues.
Originally scheduled for a November release, the documentary now seems unlikely to meet this deadline without a significant turnaround. According to the Royal Rogue, while the polo documentary is making progress, the production and logistics are in disarray. Harry, the central figure of the documentary, needs to travel to multiple countries to interview and spend time with polo stars.
However, Meghan's reluctance to let him travel alone complicates matters significantly, especially since their children are not accompanying them. Although bringing the kids could be an option, Meghan's decisions are adding further complexity to the situation.
The documentary's release hinges on the coordination and prioritization of various production companies, many of which are already managing multiple projects, including those under Archwell Productions. Archwell itself is grappling with its own issues, notably the suspension of their cooking show. The CEO of Netflix is reportedly furious, considering the couple's deal one of the worst in the company's history. In a desperate move, Netflix might release a teaser using content from the pilot episode to gauge public interest. The entertainment industry is at a challenging juncture, making it a tough time for the Sussexes to break into production. Unlike industry giants like Tyler Perry, who can maintain tight budgets and take calculated risks, Harry and Meghan lack the necessary influence and financial backing. Additionally, their network of allies has significantly diminished over the past three years for various reasons.
One of the most criticized decisions was their acceptance of the Pat Tillman Award, heavily influenced by Serena Williams' personal interests to promote a documentary. This decision backfired, casting Serena's project as a vanity endeavor since she is occupied with other business ventures. Harry's acceptance of 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 surface, a tactic often used to generate headlines. Meghan's network of connections has shrunk, leaving Harry's affiliations as their remaining support. The core issue appears to be Meghan's pervasive influence over Harry's projects. Harry seems to enjoy his endeavors more when Meghan is not involved, a sentiment observed on several occasions. 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 carve out his own path. Timing has consistently plagued the couple's ventures, with every move they make seeming ill-timed and undermining their objectives. A prime example is the current predicament: instead of allowing Harry to focus on the polo documentary, Meghan's need to be involved complicates production. Similarly, her cooking show remains stalled, adding to their contractual obligations hanging in the balance. Netflix's partnership with Harry and Meghan faces numerous challenges, from production delays to strategic missteps, with the polo documentary's already limited audience further hindered by Meghan's insistence on being part of every aspect.
