The controversial partnership between Netflix and the Sussexes has reportedly hit a major snag, with Prince Harry's upcoming polo documentary causing significant tension.
The five-part series, originally marketed as an in-depth exploration of Harry's passion for polo, has failed to meet the streaming giant’s expectations. Insiders suggest that Netflix is now seriously considering shelving the project altogether. At the heart of this brewing issue is Harry’s close friend and polo partner, Nacho Figueras.
What was meant to be a documentary highlighting Harry's connection to polo and how the sport has influenced his life has instead been dubbed by some as "The Nacho Show." Viewers who expected Prince Harry to take center stage are reportedly surprised by the overwhelming presence of Figueras, who dominates the screen time.
Netflix, which banked on Harry’s star power to drive viewership, is reportedly furious. The company had anticipated a personal documentary, much like Harry’s previous work, focusing on his life, struggles, and triumphs. Instead, Harry’s decision to step back and let his friend take the spotlight has not been well-received. This move appears to have backfired dramatically, with Netflix executives disappointed that Harry opted for a diminished role in his own series.
According to insiders, this decision stems from the backlash Harry received after his previous Netflix project, Heart of Invictus. In that series, critics accused Harry of being too prominent, suggesting that he was using the platform to keep himself in the public eye. In what seems to be an overcorrection, Harry has taken the opposite approach with the polo documentary, almost erasing himself from his own project. As one insider remarked, "Harry’s made himself a ghost in this series. You barely see him, and instead, it's all about Nacho Figueras."
This direction has left Netflix at a loss, as they now find themselves with a documentary that lacks the star presence they had counted on. "Who even knows Nacho outside of the polo world?" one insider questioned, highlighting Netflix’s frustration. The platform’s executives had expected Harry to find a balance after the criticism from Heart of Invictus, but instead, they feel he has swung too far in the wrong direction.
Adding to the tension, Netflix reportedly felt blindsided when the completed series was delivered with minimal appearance from Harry. According to sources, this has led to heated discussions behind the scenes. While the show is likely to be released due to contractual obligations, there is speculation that Netflix may downplay its release with little to no promotion. Some even suggest the series could be pulled from the platform entirely.
This situation has broader implications for Netflix’s relationship with the Sussexes. The company had invested heavily in a multi-million-dollar deal with Harry and Meghan, expecting blockbuster content that would drive subscriptions and viewership. However, the potential failure of the polo documentary has put Netflix under pressure. If the series flops, it could jeopardize future collaborations with the royal couple.
With the documentary's release potentially receiving minimal promotion or being canceled, the future of Harry and Meghan's partnership with Netflix hangs in the balance. What once seemed like a lucrative deal now appears to be at risk. One thing is certain: Netflix is not happy, and the fallout from this documentary mishap could have long-lasting consequences for both sides. Whether Prince Harry can recover from this misstep remains to be seen, but the strained relationship between Netflix and the Sussexes is clear.
